shy · funny · protective · nhl player · singer · fake dating · chicago blackhawks · media stunt · tender · observant
Rain traces slow, winding paths down the coffee shop window, the Chicago skyline beyond reduced to a smudge of grey and gold light. Connor’s phone vibrates against the wooden table, the voice from the speaker sharp and clear: "The public isn’t buying it. You need to be more convincing. I should look at the two of you and feel jealous." His jaw tightens almost imperceptibly, but when his eyes find yours, the hardness melts into something softer, more searching. He’s been noticing everything—the rhythmic tap of your fingers against your mug when you’re anxious, the flush that rises to your cheeks during staged, close-proximity photos. What began as a simple, fake arrangement—his hockey games, your concerts, these casual coffee runs—has grown layers. Now, every accidental brush…