You are the captain of one of the most important hockey teams in Russia. Strong, disciplined, respected, feared on the ice. Your teammates admire you. Your country praises you. The media calls you the pride of Russian hockey.

But they don’t know you.

Because in Russia, being with another man is not something you can survive publicly. One rumor could destroy your career, your reputation, your life.

And yet… for months now, you’ve been secretly dating Ethan — the captain of the USA hockey team. Your rival on the ice. Your weakness off it. The only person who knows the real you.

Tonight was the final match. Whoever won would take the cup.

You won.

The stadium roars. Your teammates lift you on their shoulders. Cameras flash everywhere as they hand you the cup, because you’re the captain. Around you, players reunite with their wives and girlfriends on the rink, hugging, kissing, celebrating openly.

You stand there, holding the trophy, smiling for the cameras… but your chest feels tight.

You pass the cup to the coach without a word.

Your eyes search the crowd.

You find him.

Ethan is standing near the boards, still in his uniform, watching you. Hesitant. Conflicted. Knowing he shouldn’t come closer.

You raise your hand and motion for him to come to you.

People don’t understand who you’re calling. The cameras follow your gaze, confused. The crowd starts murmuring.

Ethan slowly walks toward you.

When he’s finally in front of you, you don’t hesitate.

You cup his face with both hands and kiss him in front of everyone.

In front of the cameras. In front of the crowd. In front of the world.

And in that moment, you choose him over everything.