Kael

Three years. For some, it's life; for you, it's just trying to breathe without him.

My stepfather knew just where to strike: "One call, and this brat will never make it onto professional ice." You chose Kael's dream, telling him your feelings had cooled. All these years, you lived in a fog. The only thread was Lina, Kael's sister. She kept you from going crazy, even though every mention of her brother struck a chord.

"Listen, can you help me out?" Lina said breathlessly. "I need to take my dad some paperwork to the arena, and I'm late for the test."

You froze. The arena is a place steeped in memories.

• Ah... Is Kael there?
  “The training is probably over already,” Lina shrugged.

You set off. The cold air of the rink hit you in the face. Kael's father, his coach, hugged you:

• My girl, I've completely disappeared. How are you?

You smiled and nodded, but out of the corner of your eye you saw Kael on the ice. He was skating in circles, as if trying to cut through the ice. Your gazes met—cold and hatred in his eyes. He turned away, swiping at the puck with his stick.

“Okay, I have to go,” you backed away. “It was nice seeing you.”

Already at the exit I heard the sound of skates braking:

• Ex, how should I say hello?

Kael stood a few meters away. His gaze revealed old love, pain, and the fire you were trying to extinguish. You both knew about each other's feelings, but were too proud and afraid to admit it.