Page 28

I take a seat at one of the empty tables in the back as soon as I get my drink. I pull out my phone, but instead of scrolling mindlessly through social media, I find myself people-watching.

There’s a group of students frantically typing away over what I assume is a group project. A couple shares a pastry, giggling and sneaking kisses between bites. A guy with a man bun and a beardworks on a Sudoku puzzle. There’s even a professor—I can tell because his suede jacket has elbow patches—playingWords with Friends.

A few minutes pass before a couple of good-looking guys stroll in wearing hockey jerseys. They’re tall, broad-shouldered, and wear easy smiles. The jerseys are deep navy blue with white lettering that reads “BSU Barracudas.”

I remember reading about the Barracudas when I was researching BSU. Apparently, they’re a big deal around here. While most schools are all about football, BSU is hockey-obsessed. The team has won multiple Frozen Fours—whatever that means—and even produced a few NHL players over the years.

My eyes follow the guys over the rim of my mug as they order their drinks and settle down at a nearby table. I almost wish they chose to sit with me. Not because I have anything to say to them but because it would be nice to bask in their cheerfulness.

Growing up, I was never into sports. I preferred burying my nose in a book or tinkering with computers. Hockey existed in the background on TV screens in crowded restaurants or in snatches of overheard conversations.

But here, it’s a way of life. I overheard some guy on the bus mention that the arena downtown is always packed with students cheering themselves hoarse. There are even special hockey-themed events throughout the year, like aDinner & Skate with the BarracudasNightand a charity tournament.

It’s a whole different world that I’m not sure I’ll ever fully understand or be a part of. But then again, that’s the beauty of college, isn’t it? The chance to explore new things, step outside your comfort zone, and discover parts of yourself you never knew existed.

Maybe I should give hockey a chance. Go to a game or two and see what all the fuss is about. Who knows, I might even enjoy it. And if not, that’s okay too.

I’m still lost in thought when a deep voice asks, “Is this seat taken?”

I glance up to see a very handsome, very tall, very beefy boy standing over me. His halo of golden blond curls shimmers under the warm lights. His ruby-red lips curve into a kind smile as his crystal-blue eyes meet mine.

He’s wearing a BSU Barracudas hockey jersey, too. But on him, it looks different. Better. The deep navy blue fabric stretches enticingly across his broad chest like it was made specifically for him.

A backpack is slung carelessly over one shoulder, and his large hand grips the strap with an ease that speaks of strength and confidence. Everything about him exudes warmth and approachability, and it sets off butterflies in my stomach.

I realize I’m staring with my mouth slightly agape, and I quickly snap it shut.

“Uh, no. It’s not taken,” I stammer out.

His smile widens. “Mind if I join you then? All the other tables are full.”

I nod dumbly, no longer trusting my voice. He sets his backpack down and slides into the seat with an inherent gracefulness that seems at odds with his size. His thick legs spread wide, and it takes all my strength not to start drooling. This boy is big with a capital B,andhe’s even more beautiful up close.

His skin is smooth and sun-kissed. A smattering of light freckles dusts the bridge of his nose. His jawline looks like it was carved from marble by Michelangelo himself.

In short, he’s beautiful.

“Are you a student here?” He asks me, even though I’m staring with my mouth open again.

I close it and shake my head. “Not yet. I’m here for a campus tour. Still deciding where I want to go in the fall.”

The guy’s face lights up like a kid on Christmas morning. His eyes sparkle with excitement, and his smile grows even wider, revealing a set of perfectly straight, white teeth. “You’re consideringBSU? That’s awesome! You absolutely have to come here. It’s the best schoolever.”

He leans forward, resting his elbows on the table, and clasps his hands together. “I mean, just look at this campus. It’s beautiful, right? And the academics are top-notch. Plus, the hockey team is legendary. Have you seen them play?”

I chuckle at his uncontrolled enthusiasm. While this guy is a walking, talking advertisement for BSU, it’s endearing how he gushes about the school. This place means something to him.

“I haven’t had the chance to see the hockey team play yet,” I admit, gesturing to his jersey. “But I take it you’re a fan?”

A pretty red blush spreads across his cheeks, nearly matching the color of his plush lips. He glances down at his chest as if he’s only now realizing what he’s wearing.

“Oh, this? It’s actually my dad’s old jersey. He played for the Barracudas back in the day. I guess you could say hockey runs in the family.” He runs a hand through his curls, making himself appear bashful. “I’ll be going to BSU in the fall as a legacy student. Can’t wait to carry on the tradition, you know?”

I nod, impressed. “That’s really cool. Your dad must be proud.”

“He is. He’s always telling me stories about his glory days on the ice. I hope I can live up to the hype.”

He says it jokingly, but I detect a hint of nervousness in his voice. It must be a lot of pressure to fill such big skates.