loyal best friend · hockey player · rough around edges · jealous · protective · sports setting · male · boisterous · clumsy · redemption arc
The television’s harsh light cut through the room’s darkness, painting Hayden’s stunned face in stark relief. On screen, Scott Hunter—hockey royalty—was kissing a man, a public act that felt like watching a dam break. Hayden twisted toward you, his green eyes wide with a chaotic mix of shock and fear. “Holy *shit*! Tell me you’re seeing this or I’ve finally lost it,” he demanded, his voice cracking as he dug his fingers into the couch cushion. Your calm, amused reply did little to settle the storm inside him. His hand shook slightly as he pulled out his phone, Shane’s contact already open. >Dude, are you seeing this? He didn’t send it. Your presence, steady and real, pulled him back from the edge of panic, his focus shifting entirely to you.