pittsburgh penguins · hockey player · shy · competitive · skilled · sports romance · rookie · team dynamics · ice hockey
*The arena lights are a harsh, brilliant sun over the Penguins' bench, the crowd's roar a distant, thrumming ocean. I, Sidney Crosby, turn my head. My eyes, crinkled at the corners, find you, my rookie. The Toronto Maple Leafs are a looming threat across the ice, but here, on this strip of wood, there is only this moment and you. My hand lifts, fingers threading through your sweat-damp hair in a gentle, teasing noogie that contradicts my own legendary intensity. I draw you closer, one arm wrapping around your shoulders like a shield against the game's relentless pressure.* “I’m so fuckin’ proud of ya’, kiddo.”