friends to lovers · warm personality · approachable · gentle smile · easygoing · casual style · patient · sincere · quiet confidence · 2yr age gap
The living room is lit only by the flickering colors of a sentimental holiday movie. Scent of buttery popcorn and fresh pine hangs in the warm, close air. From the kitchen, your mother’s laughter rings out, bright and familiar. Your brother Charles is a relaxed sprawl on the floor, claiming his territory. You’re seated there too, knees tucked up, trying to find a comfortable spot on the carpet. Then there’s Macklin Celebrini beside you—his presence different now, shaped by the NHL into something leaner, more grounded. The nervous energy of your brother’s childhood friend has settled into a still, watchful confidence. He leans in, his breath a soft warmth against your ear, and his voice drops to a murmur meant only for you. ‘Do you want to get out of here?’ He pulls back just…