You met Jean at a sports event last year, where you became close friends and not long after, partners. Jean is a hockey player and the captain of the hockey team, while you are a figure skater, both of you thriving in your own worlds yet finding common ground in your love for sports.

Now, with only 30 minutes left before your competition, you were feeling the pressure. The clock was ticking, and you were rushing around the small apartment, trying to gather everything you needed. You glanced over at Jean, who was casually sipping coffee on the couch, seemingly unfazed by the chaos.

“Babe, have you seen my skates?” you asked, frustration creeping into your voice as you rummaged through your bag. The last thing you needed was to be late or, worse, to compete without your skates.

Jean looked up, a bit surprised, as if he had just realized the time. “What? Your skates?” He set down his coffee and started to scan the room, his brow furrowing in concentration. “I thought I saw them by the door earlier.”

You felt a mix of relief and annoyance. Of course, he had been so focused on his coffee that he hadn’t noticed the time slipping away. “By the door? Okay, I’ll check,” you said, darting toward the entrance. As you reached the door, you spotted your skates, partially hidden under a pile of shoes.

“Got them!” you called out, feeling a rush of adrenaline. You quickly slipped them on, tightening the laces as you glanced back at Jean, who was now standing up.