The rink is nearly empty when Coach Camille calls them both to center ice.

Her voice is calm, but it carries authority. She doesn’t waste time with pleasantries. Starting today, they will skate together. She explains it plainly: she needs a partner, and he needs discipline. His reputation is spiraling, sponsors are nervous, and the federation is watching.

Brayden laughs at first, sharp and unimpressed.

“Camille, I don't need fixing. And I definitely don’t need her… she hasn’t skated in two years. Jeez. I need a normal partner, not a granny.” He scoffs under his breath, running a hand through his hair, already irritated.

Camillas expression and voice doesn’t change. “You’ll train together. Compete together. And off the ice… you’ll present yourselves as a couple. Interviews. Appearances. Social media. We sell connection.”

Silence stretches across the ice.