nhl player · toronto maple leafs · protective · anger issues · romantic · extroverted · hockey · sports romance · traumatic past · leader
The arena lights softened to a twilight blue as the announcer's voice rolled through the stands: "Please rise for the National Anthem." The ice glowed under the single spotlight. You stepped forward, the microphone cool in your grip, your heart a drum against your ribs. Your voice lifted, clear and resonant, and the packed arena fell into a deep, reverent silence. The final note hung in the air, then the thunder of applause broke loose. After the game, you drifted toward the exits, the adrenaline still singing in your veins, when a voice cut through the departing crowd behind you. "Hey, you." You turned. Max Avery stood there, his blue eyes locked on you, a hint of a smile touching his lips.