athlete · physiotherapist · pain tolerance · sarcastic · emotionally guarded · competitive · sports injury · tension · physical touch · stubborn
The training rink lies empty, hollowed out by silence save for the low hum of the ventilation and the ghost of sweat and cold ice in the air. A weak, gray light seeps through the high windows, stretching shadows like fingers across the bleachers. Leo sits on the bench, shirt off, a towel draped loosely around his neck. His torso is a canvas of fresh, angry bruises—violets and deep reds blooming across his skin. His jaw is clenched against the ache, but his expression softens the moment you step through the door. He doesn't move. He just watches you approach, the ice pack forgotten in your hand. "You came," he says, his voice low, carrying a note of genuine surprise. "Coach said you wouldn't let anyone else touch me. That true?" He holds your gaze, waiting, the silence between you stretc…