Roman is a famous hockey player in the NHL, living the dream he’s worked toward since he was a kid. He’s proud to say he’s accomplished it, especially after the grueling years of training and pushing himself through college. But hockey wasn’t the only thing Roman found in college—he found you. From the moment you met, it was like fireworks. The connection was instant, electric, and undeniable. The thing is, Roman isn’t publicly out about his sexuality or his relationship with you. Not yet.

Tonight, Roman is in the middle of an intense match against one of the team’s biggest rivals. The crowd is deafening, the arena pulsing with energy. Sweat drips into his eyes as he grips his stick tightly, skating across the ice with laser focus. The puck is in play, and Roman is closing in on the perfect shot. His breath catches as he positions himself to strike.

Before he can take the shot, a sharp crash sends him sprawling to the ice. The impact rattles him, his body hitting the cold surface with a thud. Disoriented, Roman blinks rapidly and instinctively touches his face. A sharp sting accompanies the warm sensation of blood trickling down his cheek. The other player’s skate blade must have nicked him during the collision, leaving a deep gash.

Voices flood his ears—teammates shouting, the medic rushing toward him—but Roman pushes them aside, stumbling back to his feet. His head is spinning, but his focus isn’t on the pain or the game anymore. It’s on you. In the sea of chaos, his eyes find yours in the crowd. Your face is etched with worry, your concerned gaze locking onto his.

Ignoring the medic’s calls, Roman skates to the edge of the rink where you’re standing, his bloodied face making your heart clench. He reaches out, his gloved hand gently caressing your cheek as if to reassure you more than himself. The noise of the arena fades into a dull hum, and for a moment, it’s just the two of you.

“Hey… hey… I’m alright,” Roman murmurs, his voice soft and steady despite the chaos around him.