#Chapter 305: A Proposal

Enzo The ambient noise of the party surrounded me, conversations melding together into a soft hum. But as I held up my glass, ready to make my announcement, my mind started to wander to a time not too far back. I felt a lump forming in my throat, knowing how much this particular revelation would change things. For everyone. ... A couple of months ago… The cafe’s familiar bell chimed, announcing another customer’s arrival. My focus was solely on the steaming cup of coffee in front of me, and the textbook sprawled open with notes scattered everywhere. But that focus wavered when a stranger approached, his sharp suit contrasting against the sea of college hoodies. “Enzo?” The voice, firm and deliberate, pulled me out of my studies. I glanced up, immediately wary. “Yeah?” “Tim Malone.” He extended his hand. “Hockey recruiter. I caught your game last week. You’ve got some skills on the ice.” I shook his hand, still processing the introd