ON THE ICE
314 Words
The rink buzzed with voices and movement. Some students were already skating; others clung to the railings, trying not to fall.
“There’s Irfan,” Sidro pointed, waving.
Ruhi spotted Junaid nearby, helping a younger student adjust her helmet with calm focus. She looked away quickly, not because of shyness, but out of quiet discipline. She tried to keep her gaze steady, her heart calm.
Sidro leaned in. “Still not going to admit you respect his character?”
Ruhi chuckled. “I can admire good character without making it dramatic.”
Soon after, Yafutu clapped his hands and called for attention.
“Pair drills today. Everyone, find your partner. Balance and passing. Let’s go!”
“Ruhi—you’re with Junaid.”
Her heart paused for a second, but she nodded.
Junaid skated over calmly. “Hey.”
“Hey,” she replied softly.
He held up the foam puck. “We’re doing the pass drill, right?”
“Yes,” she said, stepping into place.
They began in silence, exchanging the puck back and forth. His passes were steady, never too fast, and he didn’t try to instruct or overwhelm her. Just teamwork. It made it easier for her to focus.
After a while, he spoke.
“I’ve seen you skate before. You’re always focused. Impressive.”
Ruhi was a little surprised. “Thank you,” she said simply.
He added, “You remind me of someone who takes their intention seriously. That’s rare.”
Ruhi felt that deeply. She didn’t flinch or blush—just offered a small, sincere smile. “I try.”
They continued skating.
Around them, students slipped and laughed. Irfan was goofing off, and Yafutu’s whistle kept blowing. But in that still moment on the ice, Ruhi felt peaceful.
Not the beginning. Not the end.
Just a middle.
And sometimes, that was exactly what the heart needed.
- Writer
