What if a whirlwind of emotions could melt the ice between two men?
Season’s Change by Cait Nary throws us into the fast-paced world of professional hockey and introduces us to Olly Järvinen, a stoic but troubled athlete dealing with the aftermath of his previous team’s toxic environment. His anxiety is thick like the tension on the ice as he navigates life in the new team. Then there’s Benji Bryzinski, whose sunny disposition hides the pain of a past that shaped him into a man who seeks self-care and connection in healthy ways.
Theirs is an opposites attract romance. Olly’s brooding exterior clashes with Benji’s boisterous energy, drawing them together like two planets colliding in the vast emptiness of space. They find solace in each other’s company as they learn to navigate their own internal storms. It’s a slow burn that builds steadily over chapters filled with shared laughter and quiet understanding.
Olly’s anxiety is a tangible presence. His ribcage seems to crack under Benji’s embrace, the pressure of it all. He doesn’t know how to ask for help in ways that feel genuine. Yet, there’s something about Benji’s calm demeanor and the way his hands are always reaching out—a need for touch, a deep desire to ease Olly’s burden.
Olly’s struggles aren’t just about anxiety. He wrestles with the societal pressure of being a gay athlete in professional hockey, trying to find the courage to express himself openly. The pressure is palpable as he tries to navigate the treacherous waters of self-discovery and acceptance.
Benji’s journey is equally compelling, his journey through self-acceptance. His initial attraction to Olly blossoms into something deeper—a kind of love that’s not just romantic but also about understanding and support. Benji’s unwavering presence is a beacon in Olly’s life, providing the solace and strength he needs as he tries to build himself back up.
The relationship between these two men unfolds gradually, with tenderness woven into their every interaction. As they navigate the pressures of their careers and personal lives, they find themselves drawn closer through shared laughter, heartfelt conversations, and quiet moments of understanding.
“Season’s Change” is a love story fueled by grit, vulnerability, and the power of acceptance. It’s a rollercoaster ride of emotions that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. And it’s worth every drop of sweat on your brow as you witness this unlikely pair find solace in each other amidst the storm.