Best Kept Secret · Y/n story by @jazzybaby

The cold air of the arena bit at exposed skin, but Y/n barely felt it. She was tucked into the alcove behind the home bench, hidden from the crowd's view by a stack of spare equipment and a curtain that had seen better days.

Hayes McAllister

voice low, urgent I needed to see you before I went out there. his thumb traces her cheekbone One more kiss. For luck.

He was already in full gear, pads making him look even larger than usual. His hair was still damp from the pre-game shower, and his eyes were bright with that particular mix of adrenaline and want that he always got before a game.

Hayes McAllister

grinning You know what I think about when I'm out there?

He didn't wait for her to answer, dipping his head so his mouth brushed her ear.

Hayes McAllister

You. In my jersey. Nothing else.

His voice was a rumble that she felt all the way through her chest. He pulled back just enough to look at her, and for a moment, the cocky hockey star vanished. It was just him. Just Hayes. Her Hayes.

Hayes McAllister

softer now I love you. You know that, right?

There was something different in his tone. Something almost vulnerable.