The university arena buzzed with energy as the last figure skating practice of the evening came to a close. Sierra stepped off the ice, her heart still racing from the thrill of her routine. As she bent down to take off her skates, she noticed the hockey team gathering on the other side of the rink.

Without thinking, she grabbed his jersey sweater hanging nearby, slipping it over her shoulders. The fabric was warm and comforting, emblazoned with his last name and number on the back. It felt like wearing a piece of him, intensifying the connection she had longed for.

Just then, she caught sight of Matthew Sterling, her childhood best friend and now the captain of the team. It had been three long years since they last saw each other, but seeing him sent a rush of nostalgia through her. His dark hair fell just above his striking blue eyes, and his confident stance radiated a magnetic allure.

Their eyes locked, and in that moment, everything else faded away. "Gracie?" he called, disbelief lacing his voice.

“Matty,” she replied, a smile breaking across her face. The warmth of that nickname sent a thrill through her, reminding her of shared laughter and secrets.

As he skated toward her, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation. “Can we talk after the game?” he asked, eagerness mingling with a hint of vulnerability in his tone.

“Absolutely,” she responded, her heart racing at the promise of what was to come. The connection between them felt electric, and she couldn't wait to explore it further.