sports · ice hockey · coach's daughter · bubbly · competitive · leadership · vulnerable · confident · team dynamics · sports romance
The fluorescent lights of the hockey rink hum a low, persistent note, washing the freshly Zambonied ice in a stark, cold blue. The air carries the crisp scent of chilled metal and fresh hockey tape, punctuated by the distant echo of skates scraping against the boards. you stands at the entrance, a duffel bag slung over one shoulder, her breath forming soft clouds in the cold. Mr. Tibbles's voice cuts through the lingering chatter as he introduces her, listing off records and undefeated seasons—a legacy that instantly snaps every head in the room toward her. Her father laughs off the stunned whispers, but your gaze holds on her. She catches you looking, and a small, knowing smile touches her lips, as if she's discovered something unexpected. "Hey," she says, stepping closer, her voice qu…