As they strolled through the parking lot, the sound of their laughter filled the crisp night air. The world felt full of possibilities, and Alex couldn't help but glance at Cass, who walked beside him, their cheeks still flushed from the cold and excitement.
“Hey, do you want to come to my place for a bit?” Cass asked, pulling their beanie down over their ears as a gust of wind swept through the lot. “I can show you some of my routines, and I could use a second opinion.”
“Definitely! I’d love to,” Alex replied, his heart racing at the invitation. The thought of spending more time with Cass made the butterflies in his stomach dance.
“Just a warning: my place is a bit of a mess right now,” Cass added with a laugh. “I’ve been so focused on skating that my room looks like a tornado hit it.”
“Sounds like a normal teenage room to me,” Alex joked, feeling a surge of excitement. “I can’t wait to see it!”
As they reached Cass's car, Logan waved goodbye. “I’m heading home, but you two have fun! Don’t get too distracted with all the glitter and sequins,” he teased.
Cass rolled their eyes playfully. “No promises!”
With Logan gone, Alex slid into the passenger seat, trying to ignore the slight flush creeping up his cheeks. Cass’s car was small and sporty, with colorful stickers plastered across the dashboard. As they drove, the radio played upbeat music, filling the car with a lively energy that made Alex smile.
“You know,” Cass said, glancing at him as they turned down a quiet street, “I was really nervous about this competition coming up. It feels like everything is riding on it.”
“Why’s that?” Alex asked, intrigued.
Cass hesitated for a moment, gripping the steering wheel a little tighter. “It’s just… my mom has really high expectations. She’s been a competitive skater, and she wants me to follow in her footsteps. Sometimes I feel like I’m trying to live up to her dreams instead of my own.”
“I get that,” Alex replied, nodding. “It can be tough with parents wanting certain things for you. But what do you want?”
Cass’s eyes sparkled in the dim light of the streetlamps. “Honestly? I want to just enjoy skating. It’s my passion, but sometimes it feels like it’s become this big pressure cooker.”
“I can relate,” Alex admitted. “Hockey can feel the same way. There’s pressure to perform, to impress the coaches, to keep up with the other players. But when I’m out there, it’s like everything else fades away.”
Cass smiled at him, and for a moment, the world outside felt distant. “Exactly! It’s those moments when you’re in the zone that make it all worth it.”
As they arrived at Cass's house, the two of them hopped out of the car and headed to the front door. Cass led the way inside, and Alex couldn’t help but be intrigued by the cozy vibe of their home. The walls were adorned with framed photos of Cass as a child, dressed in a tiny skating outfit, beaming with joy.
“Welcome to my domain,” Cass declared dramatically, gesturing around the living room, which was filled with colorful throw pillows, a slightly worn couch, and a few scattered skating trophies.
“It’s awesome!” Alex exclaimed, genuinely impressed. “I love the vibe here.”
“Thanks! It’s a work in progress,” Cass said, kicking off their shoes and heading towards the hallway. “Let me just grab my stuff.”
As Cass disappeared down the hall, Alex took a moment to look around. He noticed a bulletin board filled with inspirational quotes, photos of friends, and flyers for skating events. It felt personal, a glimpse into the life of someone who was passionate and determined.
“Alright, I’m back!” Cass announced, reappearing with a small speaker and a notebook. “Let’s get to it!”
They cleared a space on the floor, and Cass played a song that Alex recognized from one of their routines. The melody floated through the air, creating an atmosphere that felt electric.
“Okay, so this is the routine I’m working on for the competition. I want your honest feedback!” Cass said, determination in their eyes.
As the music played, Cass began to skate through their routine, their movements fluid and graceful. Alex watched, captivated by the way Cass brought the music to life. Each spin and leap told a story, and Alex found himself mesmerized by their talent.
When the song ended, Cass struck a final pose, breathing heavily as a smile spread across their face. “So? What do you think?”
“That was incredible!” Alex said, clapping enthusiastically. “You have such a way of connecting with the music. It’s like you’re telling a story.”
“Really?” Cass said, their eyes bright with excitement. “I was worried it was too rough. I’ve been struggling with some transitions.”
“No way! The transitions felt smooth to me. I could feel the emotion behind it,” Alex assured them. “If I could do half of that on the ice, I’d be thrilled!”
“Thanks! I really appreciate that.” Cass beamed, their enthusiasm contagious. “Want to try giving feedback on some moves?”
“Sure! What do you need help with?” Alex replied, eager to contribute.
Cass began to demonstrate some of the moves again, explaining what they wanted to achieve. As they went through the routine step by step, Alex found himself more engaged than ever.
The evening wore on, filled with laughter, music, and the thrill of creativity. As they practiced, the connection between them deepened, and Alex felt a sense of comfort that he had never experienced before.
“Okay, last run-through!” Cass said, setting the music again. “Give it all you’ve got!”
As the music swelled, Alex could see the passion radiating from Cass, and he felt inspired to put his own heart into it. Together, they embraced the moment, lost in the rhythm of the music and the excitement of their dreams.
The night felt endless, and as they danced and skated in Cass's living room, Alex realized that he was ready to open up—to embrace everything that lay ahead.
“After this, we should celebrate!” Cass suggested, grinning. “How about ice cream?”
“I’m totally in,” Alex replied, his heart soaring with anticipation for the night ahead. “I mean, who can resist ice cream after a skating session?”
Cass laughed, the sound ringing like music in Alex's ears. “Then it’s a plan! But first, let’s nail this routine!”
And in that moment, surrounded by the warmth of friendship, Alex felt an undeniable spark—one that hinted at something more, something beautifully complicated waiting just around the corner.
YOU ARE READING
Edge Of The Ice (On Going And Own Book)
General FictionAlex Rivera, a 15-year-old trans boy, pours his heart into hockey, using the ice to escape the constant pressure of proving himself-both to his team and to the world. For him, the rink is a battleground where he fights to be seen as strong, capable...
