Unconditionally

pt2. A Chance Encounter

Arnold's pov

The sunlight felt different here in Sydney, brighter and more vibrant. I was overwhelmed with excitement as our team explored the park, but my mind was consumed with thoughts of the upcoming tournament. As I rounded a corner, I suddenly collided with someone.

"Oof!" The voice startled me, and I glanced down to see a girl with expressive eyes and an infectious smile. She had a presence that drew me in, instantly easing some of the tension in my chest.

"Sorry about that! Didn't see you," I said, attempting to mask my surprise.

She laughed, and my heart skipped a beat. "It's okay! I wasn't watching where I was going either. Just lost in my thoughts, I guess."

Her laughter was light and melodic, instantly drawing me in. She had long, silky black hair that cascaded down her back, framing her heart-shaped face perfectly. Her smooth, fair skin glowed with vitality, and her almond-shaped brown eyes sparkled with life, revealing a depth of emotion that captivated me.

Framed by long, dark lashes, her expressive gaze was enhanced by a sprinkle of freckles dancing across her nose, adding to her youthful charm. Her full lips often curved into a warm smile, capable of brightening even the grayest days. Dressed in a flowing pastel sundress that danced around her knees, she exuded a free-spirited elegance, with the fabric moving gracefully in the gentle breeze.

"I'm Arnold, by the way," I said, extending my hand.

"Stella," she replied, her grip warm and firm, sending an unexpected thrill through me.

"Nice to meet you, Stella. Are you from around here?" I asked, curious about her.

"Yeah, I live here. I'm a dancer," she said, and my interest piqued. A dancer? That was intriguing.

"I'm here for a hockey tournament," I told her, proud to share my passion. "Just came in with my team. We're trying to soak up the sights before the games start."

"Oh, that's exciting! Is this your first time in Sydney?" she asked, her eyes lighting up.

"Yeah, first time," I said, imagining all the adventures that lay ahead. "The city is amazing. I've always wanted to come here."

I felt an undeniable connection forming, as if the universe had aligned for this moment. "So, do you like hockey?" I asked, wanting to know more about her.

"Love it. It's my passion. But honestly? It can be a lot of pressure sometimes," I admitted, letting down my guard a little. It felt refreshing to be open.

"I get that. As a dancer, there's a lot of pressure to fit a certain image and to perform perfectly. It's exhausting," she replied, her vulnerability echoing my own feelings.

"Dance sounds beautiful," I said, genuinely interested. "I can only imagine the discipline it takes."

"It does. But it's also about feeling free, you know? Lately, it's been hard to find that freedom," she said, and I could see the weight of her words in her eyes.

"I can relate," I said, feeling the connection deepen. "But I believe you'll find it again."

Just then, the laughter of my teammates broke the moment, and I glanced over my shoulder. I needed to rejoin them, but I didn't want this moment to end.

"I should probably get back to my team," I said reluctantly. "But it was really great to meet you, Stella."

"Yeah, you too!" she replied, a hint of disappointment evident in her voice.

"Maybe I'll catch one of your performances while I'm here? You know, if you're up for it," I said, feeling an urge to keep the connection alive.

"I'd love that," she said, and her excitement lit a fire in my chest.

"Great! I'll find a way," I promised, giving her a smile before turning to leave. As I walked away, I felt a strange mix of exhilaration and confusion.

What just happened? I couldn't shake the feeling that meeting her was significant. Maybe it was a sign that I could break free from the pressures weighing me down, just as she could.

With my teammates' laughter echoing around me, I couldn't help but think about what the future might hold—both on and off the ice.