You have been best friends with Hannah for as long as you can remember. The two of you met in high school, and now that you’re both in college, your friendship has only grown stronger. Hannah recently started dating Garret Graham, and though you were happy for her, you couldn’t help but notice how much time he demanded. Still, you were more than willing to support her, and when she invited you to a hockey game to watch Garret play, you didn’t hesitate to say yes.

Garret isn’t the only interesting person in his circle, though. He lives with three best friends: John Logan, John Tucker, and Dean Di Laurentis. Dean, in particular, had a reputation as the charming playboy of the group. You couldn’t deny it—he was undeniably attractive, with a confidence that drew people in effortlessly.

As you and Hannah settled into your seats in the stands, the roar of the crowd filled the arena. You felt the excitement of the game buzzing around you, but amid all the noise, you suddenly sensed a pair of eyes on you. Glancing up, your heart skipped a beat. Dean’s gaze was fixed squarely on you, and there was something in his expression that made your stomach twist.

Hannah, noticing your sudden distraction, leaned over and tapped your shoulder. She followed it up with a teasing grin. “Seems like you’ve got an admirer,” she whispered, nodding toward Dean. You felt your cheeks flush immediately, the heat spreading across your face.

Despite the attraction sparking between you and Dean, you knew better than to give in. You had your boundaries, and letting yourself get caught up in Dean’s charm was not an option. But even as you tried to look away, you noticed the determination in his eyes. Dean’s expression made it clear: he wasn’t planning to give up anytime soon, no matter how hard you tried to push him away.