Edge Of The Ice (On Going And Own Book)

Cold Begginging .12

After a while, Cass took a break, leaning against the boards, panting slightly. “I think I’m going to need a water break,” they said, wiping the sweat from their brow.

“Good idea,” Logan agreed, gliding over to join them. “We can’t have you fainting on us before the big competition!”

“Don’t worry, I’m not that dramatic,” Cass laughed, though they looked a little flushed. “Just a little hydration, and I’ll be good to go.”

As they all took a breather, Alex felt a surge of gratitude for these moments. These shared experiences, the support, and the laughter were what he had longed for. It felt like a family—a chosen family.

“Hey, Alex,” Cass said, their expression turning serious. “I know we just met, but I want you to know that I really appreciate you being here. It means a lot.”

“Me too,” Alex replied, surprised by the sincerity in Cass’s voice. “I feel like I’m really starting to find my place, and that’s thanks to you guys.”

“See? We’re all in this together!” Logan chimed in, throwing an arm around both of them. “We’re a team!”

The warmth of their friendship wrapped around Alex like a cozy blanket, shielding him from the cold reality of the outside world. The lingering fears and anxieties about fitting in began to fade, replaced by the feeling of acceptance and belonging.

“I’m really glad I met you both,” Alex admitted, his voice softening.

Cass smiled brightly. “Same here. It’s nice to have people who get it, you know?”

“Definitely,” Alex said, feeling a connection that he hadn’t experienced before.

After their brief rest, Cass pushed off from the boards, gliding back onto the ice. “Alright, I’m going to work on that jump one more time. Then, Alex, it’s your turn to show off!”

“Let’s do it!” Alex replied, feeling both excited and nervous.

Cass stepped back onto the ice, their focus shifting as they prepared for another attempt at their jump. Alex watched, mesmerized by the way Cass moved—each spin and leap was filled with purpose and passion. As Cass launched into the air, Alex felt a twinge of envy mixed with admiration.

With each successful landing, Cass’s confidence soared, and the joy on their face made Alex smile. They were inspiring him to push beyond his limits, to embrace the unknown.

Finally, after a few more attempts, Cass skated over, breathing heavily but looking exhilarated. “I think I’m finally getting there! But now it’s your turn!”

“Okay, okay, I’m going!” Alex said, steeling himself. He pushed off, feeling the chill of the ice beneath his blades as he picked up speed.

As he approached the spot for his jump, the world around him seemed to fade, leaving only the rhythm of his heartbeat and the adrenaline coursing through his veins. He launched into the air, trying to mimic Cass’s movements.

He landed with a soft thud, his knees buckling slightly, but he managed to stay upright.

“See? You did it!” Cass cheered, clapping their hands.

Alex beamed, the sense of achievement flooding through him. “Not too bad for a rookie, huh?”

“Not too bad at all! I’m impressed,” Cass said, their admiration shining through.

Feeling emboldened, Alex decided to give it another shot. He took a deep breath, pushing off once more, feeling the rhythm of the ice beneath him. This time, he focused on his form, trying to channel Cass’s grace.

“Just remember to land softly!” Cass called out, their voice cutting through the night air.

With that encouragement ringing in his ears, Alex leaped again, feeling the exhilaration as he soared through the air. This time, he landed with more control, the glide across the ice smoother.

“I did it!” he shouted, unable to contain his excitement.

Cass rushed over, their face lit up with joy. “That was amazing, Alex! You’re really getting the hang of it!”

Logan joined them, clapping Alex on the back. “Dude, that was epic! We should start calling you ‘The Ice King’ or something.”

“Maybe ‘The Ice Prince’ would suit him better,” Cass teased, their eyes twinkling.

“Either way, I’m just glad I didn’t wipe out,” Alex said, his heart racing. The camaraderie between them felt solidifying, and it was a feeling he wanted to hold onto.

They spent the rest of the evening on the ice, laughing and pushing each other to try new moves. Each jump, each spin became a testament to their growing friendship. As they practiced, the bond between them deepened, the air thick with dreams and aspirations.

When they finally decided to call it a night, the rink was nearly empty, the sound of their skates echoing in the silence.

“I can’t believe how much fun this was,” Alex said, still buzzing from the excitement.

Cass nodded, their face flushed but radiant. “Same here. We should definitely do this again!”

“Count me in,” Logan said, grinning. “I’m down for whatever as long as I get to watch you two show off.”

As they left the rink, Alex felt a sense of warmth settle in his chest. The night had been more than just practice; it had been a step toward something he had longed for—a place where he felt accepted, where he could truly be himself. And in that moment, he knew he wanted more than just friendship with Cass.

But as they stepped out into the cool night air, he also felt a flicker of anxiety. What if his feelings were too big? What if it changed everything? As the stars twinkled overhead, Alex pushed those thoughts aside, focusing instead on the thrill of the night and the hope that came with it.