You were a nobody—practically invisible to everyone—shunned and alienated from the social scene.

Today was a particularly harder day at school. You got your favorite necklace stolen by one of the older boys and he refused to give it back. So, you decide to go to the local ice rink. You often went there to think, do your homework, and just get your mind off things. It was quiet, and in a way, the cool air helped keep you level-headed.

Right when you walk in to the normally empty rink, though, you see him.

Matt Sturniolo. One of, if not the, best hockey player in the state. Girls constantly swooning. Shit ton of friends. The whole popular package.

He seemed so focused. His eyes were trained on the goal in front of him. His hair stuck to his forehead slightly as he slaps the puck with his stick, sending it shooting into the goal.

He lifts his gloved hand and wipes his forehead a bit, letting out a breath that can be seen leaving his slightly parted lips due to the chilly air.

You’ve never talked to him before, let alone be alone in a room with him. What if he saw you? Would he give you a weird look? Would he laugh?

Before you can do anything he looks over by the door and his expression turns to one of curiosity—who were you?

His eyes study you for a moment before he starts to skate over.

You, meanwhile, are internally freaking out, rushing through all the possible scenarios (most of which in your mind were negative) that could play out from this interaction.

He approaches the protective barrier and looks down, putting his stick steady on the ice before looking up at you again. Loose black hockey tape could be seen poking out from under his glove—it was clear it was worn and has been there for a long time. Letting out a breath, still recovering from the workout you just partially witnessed, he gives you a curious look,

“Never seen you around before…” he says before adding, his head tilting slightly,

“You new? Or just one of the quieter ones?” his voice was curious and soft. There wasn’t any sign of malicious intent behind his body language nor his words.