The sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a golden hue over the skate park as the group continued their playful antics. Laughter rang out, blending with the rhythmic sound of boards clattering against concrete. Alex felt a rush of gratitude wash over him; moments like this reminded him why he loved his friends, why he craved this kind of connection despite the chaos that often surrounded him.
After a few more rounds of attempts on the ramps—most of which ended in laughter and a few bruises—Cass skated over to him, breathless and grinning. “You know, for a hockey player, you’ve got some pretty decent balance!” they teased, leaning in closer, their eyes sparkling.
“Thanks,” Alex said, trying to hide his embarrassment behind a smile. “I’ve got a good coach.”
“Is that so?” Cass raised an eyebrow, teasingly challenging him. “Maybe I should start taking lessons from you then!”
“Only if you’re willing to crash a few times,” Alex shot back, feeling his confidence build with each playful exchange.
As the sun began to set, the atmosphere shifted, the park filled with a warm glow that made everything feel more magical. The sound of music floated in from nearby speakers as a group of skaters set up for a mini-session. The energy was contagious, and Alex found himself feeling lighter, his earlier worries fading into the background.
“Let’s take a break,” Cass suggested, moving to sit on the edge of the half-pipe. They pulled out a water bottle and took a sip, glancing at Alex. “So, what’s your plan for the rest of the week? More practice? More… hiding?”
Alex chuckled, taking a seat beside them. “Probably a mix of both. I really need to focus on preparing for regionals, but I also don’t want to keep avoiding everything else.”
“Good call,” Cass replied, their tone turning serious. “But remember, it’s okay to ask for help. You don’t have to do it alone.”
He turned to look at them, struck by their sincerity. “I know, I just… It’s hard to open up, you know? I don’t want to drag you into my mess.”
“Hey, you’re not dragging me into anything. You’re inviting me in,” they said softly, their gaze unwavering. “I want to be there for you, Alex. But I can’t help if you don’t let me.”
He let out a slow breath, feeling the weight of their words. “I’ll try to let you in more. I really will. I just need some time.”
Cass smiled, their expression warm and understanding. “Take all the time you need. Just know I’m here.”
As they sat together, watching the others skate, Alex felt a warmth spreading through him—a sense of belonging he hadn’t realized he was missing. Just then, Leo skated over, his face flushed with excitement.
“Okay, guys! You’ve gotta see this! The others are starting a competition! Who can pull off the best trick?”
“Sounds fun!” Cass exclaimed, their eyes lighting up. “Let’s join!”
“Wait, do I have to go back up there?” Alex asked, glancing at the half-pipe with trepidation.
“Of course!” Leo insisted, laughing. “Don’t be a chicken! You’ve got to show everyone your ‘hockey’ skills!”
With a deep breath, Alex stood, feeling a mix of nerves and adrenaline as he joined Cass and Leo at the base of the ramp. “Fine! I’ll give it another shot!”
As the competition began, Alex watched the skaters take their turns, showcasing tricks and flips that made his heart race. Some of the tricks were insane, and he felt a pang of envy mixed with admiration as Cass expertly navigated the ramp, executing a perfect kickflip that earned cheers from the crowd.
“Your turn!” Cass called out, encouraging him from the side.
“Alright, alright!” he shouted back, pumping himself up. “Here goes nothing!”
He climbed back up the ramp, heart pounding in his chest. He needed to channel the energy from practice, the excitement of skating on ice, and the support from his friends. As he prepared to go, he focused on the rhythm of his breath and the sounds around him—the cheers, the laughter, and Cass’s encouraging voice.
With one last deep breath, he pushed off, gaining speed as he approached the edge. He aimed for a simple jump, something he could manage without too much risk.
As he hit the ramp, the world seemed to slow. He launched into the air, and for a brief moment, he felt weightless. But just as quickly as it began, his feet met the ground again, and he stumbled slightly, barely managing to stay upright.
Laughter erupted, but it wasn’t mocking; it was filled with encouragement. “Not bad, not bad!” Leo shouted, clapping him on the back.
Cass joined in the laughter, their joy infectious. “You did it! That was great for your second try!”
Alex couldn’t help but smile, feeling a rush of adrenaline and happiness. “Thanks! I think I’m getting the hang of this,” he said, trying to catch his breath.
As the competition continued, he found himself swept up in the excitement, pushing his limits and laughing with friends. For the first time in a while, he felt free—free from the pressure of hockey, free from expectations, and free to just enjoy the moment.
As night fell, the lights of the skate park illuminated the laughter and cheers, casting everything in a warm glow. Alex realized that amidst the chaos of his life, these moments—these friendships—were what truly mattered. And maybe, just maybe, he could learn to navigate his feelings and pressures with Cass by his side.
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...
