Edge Of The Ice (On Going And Own Book)

The Icy Divide. 48

The following days blurred together, a whirlwind of rehearsals, school, and fleeting moments of laughter shared between Alex and Cass. With the competition just a week away, they were determined to make every practice count, pouring their hearts into their routine. The lines between friendship and something deeper began to blur, and Alex found himself stealing glances at Cass when they weren't looking, his heart racing at the warmth in their smile.

Friday finally arrived, bringing with it an unexpected distraction. The day was unusually warm for early winter, prompting students to gather outside during lunch. The cafeteria buzzed with excitement as everyone talked about the upcoming weekend and the looming competition.

"Hey, Alex! You coming to the game tonight?" Ryan, Alex's teammate, called from across the lunch table. Ryan was a tall, athletic guy with shaggy brown hair and an easygoing smile.

Alex hesitated, glancing at Cass, who was animatedly discussing the routine with some fellow skaters. "Uh, I don't know," he replied, feeling torn.

"You should go! We need all the support we can get," Ryan urged, clapping a hand on Alex's shoulder. "Besides, it'll be fun. Cass will understand, right?"

Alex's stomach churned at the thought of leaving Cass behind. "Yeah, but..."

Cass turned, catching the tail end of their conversation. "What's up?" they asked, their brow furrowing in concern.

"Just trying to convince Alex to come to the hockey game tonight," Ryan said, flashing a grin. "You don't mind, do you? He could use a break from all this practicing."

Cass considered for a moment, their expression thoughtful. "I think it would be good for you to take a break, Alex. You've been working so hard."

"Really?" he asked, surprised at their easy acceptance.

"Yeah! I mean, I'll be at the rink later, so it's not like I'm going anywhere. Plus, you need to keep up with your hockey friends too," Cass said, their tone light, but Alex noticed a flicker of something else in their eyes.

"Okay, I guess I'll go," he said, the words feeling heavier than he intended.

"That's the spirit!" Ryan said, clearly pleased. "Just don't forget to wear your jersey! I'll save you a seat."

As the lunch bell rang, Alex felt a knot in his stomach. What if Cass wanted him to stay? What if they wanted to hang out after practice? Yet, deep down, a part of him was relieved. He loved spending time with Cass, but he also missed the camaraderie of his hockey team.

Later that evening, as the sun set and the sky turned a deep shade of purple, Alex arrived at the rink where the hockey game was being held. The atmosphere was electric, the sound of laughter and cheers filling the air as fans packed the stands. His teammates greeted him with slaps on the back and jovial shoves, the familiar energy washing over him.

"Glad you made it!" Ryan said, handing Alex a foam finger emblazoned with their team's colors. "We're about to crush it tonight!"

The game commenced, and Alex felt himself getting swept up in the excitement. He cheered loudly, adrenaline coursing through him as they scored the first goal. But amidst the cheers, a small part of his mind wandered back to Cass, and he couldn't shake the feeling of guilt that lingered.

After the first period, Alex headed to the restroom. As he passed the concession stand, he spotted a familiar figure in the crowd-Cass. They were sitting with a group of figure skaters, their laughter carrying through the air. A pang of regret shot through him. Should he have invited them?

"Hey, Alex!" Cass called out, spotting him. Their face lit up, and for a brief moment, Alex's heart soared.

"Hey! I didn't know you were here!" he replied, forcing a smile as he approached.