Anthony’s POV The rink smelled of cold ice and metal, sharp and sterile, like the place itself was daring me to slip. The air bit at my skin the moment I stepped inside, a slap of chill that stole the warmth right out of my lungs. My footsteps echoed too loud on the concrete, each one a reminder that I was late by Cole’s standards, even if I’d made it on time by the clock.Samantha was already there. Of course she was.She sat on the bench near the boards, lacing her boots with precise, almost violent motions, like every tug was punishment, on the laces, on herself, on me. Her jaw was clenched so tight I could practically hear her teeth grinding, and her shoulders were stiff, squared like she was gearing up for battle. She didn’t glance my way when I walked up, not even a flicker of acknowledgment.I opened my mouth, instinctively reaching for humor like it was armor. “Wow, early for once… should I be worried?” Something stupid, something to break the ice. But the words withered i
Last Updated : 2025-09-30 Read more