Edge Of The Ice (On Going And Own Book)

Unravelling threads. 17

The rhythm of their movements on the ice began to synchronize as Cass and Alex skated together, their bodies moving in fluid harmony. The cold air filled with the sounds of blades slicing through the surface and the laughter echoing off the walls. For a moment, they were invincible—lost in the dance of their shared dreams and budding romance.

“Okay, let’s try that spin sequence again!” Cass called out, excitement sparking in their voice.

“Right behind you!” Alex responded, his heart racing as he prepared for the next move.

They took their positions at opposite ends of the rink, focusing on the music playing softly from the speakers. As the beat dropped, Cass executed a flawless spin, arms extended gracefully before transitioning into a series of jumps. Alex watched in awe, captivated not only by Cass’s talent but also by the way they radiated confidence on the ice.

“Your turn!” Cass called out, a grin stretching across their face.

With a deep breath, Alex centered himself, recalling the moves they had practiced countless times before. He pushed off, gliding toward the center of the rink, adrenaline surging as he prepared for his jump. Just as he launched into the air, he caught a glimpse of Cass watching him, their eyes filled with encouragement. It was enough to lift him higher.

He landed the jump, feeling the rush of triumph wash over him. “Did you see that?” he shouted, beaming with pride.

“Of course! You were incredible!” Cass cheered, their enthusiasm infectious. “Now, let’s put everything together.”

As they fell into their routine once more, the chemistry between them deepened with every turn and leap. Alex felt as if they were building something extraordinary—an unspoken connection that transcended the ice. They practiced tirelessly, each moment solidifying their bond, but as they skated, Alex couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something more lurking beneath the surface.

“Alright, let’s take a break,” Cass suggested after a particularly demanding run-through, breathless yet glowing with excitement. They leaned against the boards, their hair slightly damp from exertion.

Alex joined them, wiping the sweat from his brow. “Yeah, I think I’m going to need a minute to catch my breath,” he said, laughing lightly.

As they sat there, the atmosphere shifted, a sudden tension building between them. Alex’s heart raced, and he could sense Cass was still processing something.

“Hey, is everything okay?” Alex asked, concern edging into his voice. “You seem a bit distant.”

Cass bit their lip, hesitating for a moment before speaking. “I guess I’m just worried about what comes next. I mean, with practice ramping up for competitions and school stuff, it feels like there’s a lot happening.”

“Yeah, I get that,” Alex replied, feeling a knot form in his stomach. “It’s kind of overwhelming, isn’t it?”

“Exactly. I want to focus on skating, on us, but it feels like everything is pulling me in different directions,” Cass admitted, frustration tinging their words.

“I know what you mean. I’ve been feeling the same way,” Alex said, searching for the right words to comfort them. “But I think we can make it work. We just have to communicate.”

Cass nodded, their expression softening. “You’re right. I just don’t want to let the pressure ruin what we have.”

“We won’t,” Alex assured, feeling a surge of determination. “We’re a team, remember? We’ll tackle everything together.”

“Together,” Cass echoed, a small smile breaking through their worry.

“Let’s get back out there,” Alex said, standing up and offering his hand to Cass. “We’ll skate our hearts out and figure out the rest as we go.”