Jack Porter has spent years hiding how much he wants guidance on and off the pitch, his fear of seeming inadequate keeping him from admitting the truth even to himself. Lorcan Ballard offers exactly that with his calm strength and unyielding presence, turning their fight for the same starting position into a slow burn of unspoken tension that builds with every shared drill.

Every practice brings them closer until the equipment shed becomes the place where Lorcan tells him exactly what to do. Jack has never let anyone take control like that, and the risk of exposure does nothing to slow him down. The deadline for the championship roster only raises the stakes on his secret. Lorcan tells him to stay behind after the next session.