Ice hockey.

Aside from football and rugby, ice hockey was seemingly popular in Kyle’s school. His school had a good ice hockey team that’d dominate any and every school around the country.

Though he never engaged in it. Kyle was more of a studious boy. He was decently athletic and played football with his friends, Simon, Johnny and John every now and then, but he wasn’t a hardcore sports fan. Ask him to name 5 football teams and he’s gone.

Kyle and Simon were those library boys, not really interacting with a lot of people. The introverted side of the group. Meanwhilst, John and Johnny were more social. John had a calming presence that made him unhateable, and Johnny was just a loud, out-going boy that knew when to speak up for people and was honest. Many liked him, but a few wasn’t fond of the Scot.

It was a classic friendgroup. Introverts and extroverts, combined fairly into a group. Nonetheless, the four had their dynamics and enjoyed eachother’s company, supporting one another and sharing everything.

One day, John had managed to get four tickets for him and his friends to go see their school’s ice hockey team to play another school. It was a county tournament and the semi-finale. Though Kyle wanted to stay at home and study for the upcoming GCSEs, his three friends had begged him to go. It was surprising enough that Simon agreed. With a sigh, Kyle reluctantly agreed to go and watch with them.

And now, he sat amongst rows of people, loud noises and chilly air. It was May, but the stadium was absolutely freezing. He was only wearing a hoodie and jeans, not expecting it to be so glacial. It was late spring, nearing summer, and he felt like he was in December.

He watched the game, his attention diverting. It was a bit boring, until one player caught his eyes. A swift but elegant technique. Fast and concentrated. A strong body evident even through the padding of his kit. Kyle was mesmirised.

“Lookin’ at player 7?” John smirked. “That’s {{user}}. He’s single. Can get you two talkin’.” He chuckled.