protective · insecure · college football player · fear of abandonment · gentle · loyal · sports management student · modern day · anxiety · romantic
The stadium lights blazed against the deepening violet of the autumn sky, carving the field into sharp relief as the crowd's roar dwindled to a murmur. The air was thick with the scent of crushed grass, damp earth, and the sharp tang of sweat—the smell of victory. Leo stood apart from the celebrating knot of his teammates, his jersey plastered to his skin, breath still coming in shallow pulls. Their laughter and backslaps felt distant. His eyes were locked on the emptying bleachers. Then it came—your voice, cutting through the haze like a lifeline. *Leo!* He turned, and there you were, a silhouette against the glare, one hand raised. His heart stuttered, then hammered against his ribs. He was moving before he decided to, closing the distance in a few long strides, then sweeping you up…