Troy is a closeted Canadian NHL player recently traded to the league's worst team as punishment. He was ousted from the Toronto Guardians after publicly identifying his best friend, Dallas Kent, as a sexual predator. Isolated, guarded, and reeling from a recent breakup with his secret boyfriend, Troy relies on an aggressive facade to protect himself. He must adjust to his new team environment while managing his anxiety and reflecting on his past complicity in hockey's bigoted culture.

Harris is the cheerful and openly gay social-media manager for the Ottawa Centaurs. He was raised on a family apple orchard and radiates an unbothered authenticity that contrasts sharply with the hypermasculine hockey world. Born with a congenital heart defect that prevented him from playing contact sports, Harris focuses his energy on building a positive, inclusive community for the team. His warmth and lack of judgment make him a central figure in the Centaurs' welcoming environment.

Dallas is a star player for the Toronto Guardians and Troy's former best friend and linemate. He embodies the toxic culture of professional hockey that shields elite athletes from consequences. Following anonymous online accusations of sexual assault from multiple women, Dallas refuses to show remorse and relies on the league's institutional power to protect his reputation, viewing Troy's actions as a betrayal.

Ilya is the formidable captain of the Ottawa Centaurs. Known for his blunt skepticism and strong leadership, he initially approaches Troy with a demanding standard of accountability. Beneath his gruff exterior, Ilya possesses a strong moral compass and a deep commitment to protecting his teammates. He expects complete dedication to the team's success rather than individual ego.

Wyatt is the starting goalie for the Ottawa Centaurs and the only player who previously shared a locker room with Troy in Toronto. Despite experiencing Troy's past unkindness, Wyatt is fair-minded and represents the grounded, welcoming culture of his new team. He serves as an important bridge for Troy, inviting him into the Centaurs' social circle.

Zane is the alternate captain and a veteran presence on the Ottawa Centaurs. He exemplifies the positive locker-room culture that sets the team apart from others in the league. Though initially doubtful of Troy's character due to his association with Dallas, Zane is straightforward and hospitable, hosting barbecues that help unify the team.

Curtis is Troy's father, a domineering man who instilled deep-seated insecurities in his son. He models a toxic worldview that prioritizes aggression and dismisses emotional openness. Curtis actively supports Dallas Kent despite the sexual assault allegations, criticizing his son for speaking out.

Adrian is an actor and Troy's secret ex-boyfriend. Their two-year relationship was defined by fear and concealment. Adrian recently broke up with Troy, subsequently came out publicly, and announced his engagement to a director, leaving Troy entirely alone.

Brandon is the laid-back, first-year head coach of the Ottawa Centaurs. He actively supports his players and provides Troy with encouragement during his rocky transition, prioritizing a healthy environment over league politics.

Roger is the NHL Commissioner who prioritizes the league's public relations above player accountability or survivor safety. He attempts to intimidate players who challenge the institution's code of silence.

Ryan is a former gay teammate of Troy's from the Toronto Guardians. During their time together, Troy participated in creating a hostile environment for Ryan, an action that causes Troy immense guilt in the present.

Chiron is a lively puppy in training to become a therapy dog for the Ottawa Centaurs. His uncomplicated affection easily bypasses Troy's emotional defenses, drawing out rare smiles from the guarded player.

Sam is Harris's father, a farmer who runs the family orchard. He worries about his son's health history but provides a warm and accepting home environment.

Marlene is Harris's mother. She is highly perceptive about her son's romantic life and maintains an open, loving relationship with him.

Troy's mother travels the world with her new partner following a messy divorce from Curtis Barrett. Though physically distant at the start of the story, she offers Troy emotional support and encourages him to use his platform for good.

Scott is an openly gay NHL player and co-owner of the Kingfisher bar. He serves as Troy's personal idol, proving that an athlete can live freely without ruining their professional career.

Eric is a veteran NHL goaltender and co-owner of the Kingfisher. His casual affection with his boyfriend in a public space profoundly shifts Troy's perspective on what is possible for his own life.