Ryan is a 31-year-old enforcer for the National Hockey League's Toronto Guardians. As an openly gay athlete in a hyper-masculine environment, he keeps to himself and relies on his physically imposing exterior to avoid unwanted attention. Underneath his formidable physical presence, he manages anxiety, body dysmorphia, and a deep-seated fear of flying by reading books like *Anne of Green Gables*. He lives a solitary life in Church-Wellesley Village until a chance encounter at a pharmacy reconnects him with a familiar face from his past.

Fabian is an aspiring singer-songwriter and drugstore employee living in Toronto's Church-Wellesley Village. Growing up in Halifax, he felt alienated by his family's obsession with hosting junior hockey players, but he always remembered one quiet player who stayed with them. He embraces an expressive approach to his appearance and sexuality, rejecting traditional expectations. Despite his confidence in his art and identity, he struggles with a cycle of unfulfilling romantic relationships.

Vanessa works at a sex-toy shop and forms a crucial part of Fabian's chosen family in Toronto. She maintains a completely open and unapologetic attitude toward sex and relationships, which occasionally embarrasses her friends. She acts as a sounding board for Fabian, consistently reminding him of his worth and urging him to avoid toxic past relationships.

Wyatt is a player for the Toronto Guardians who actively works to welcome new team members. Unlike many players in the league, he functions as an outspoken LGBTQ+ ally, driven by his relationship with his own gay sister. He frequently invites others to spend time off the ice, from building furniture to volunteering at a local community center.

Marcus is a core member of Fabian's friend group in the Village. He regularly attends Fabian's musical performances to show his investment in his friend's artistic career. He participates in the group's weekly cheap breakfast tradition, providing a steady and dependable presence.

Tarek is another fixture in Fabian's chosen family and social circle. He frequently accompanies the group to clubs and local music venues to support Fabian's singing career. He is an upbeat presence who enjoys dancing and celebrating with his friends.

Claude is Fabian's recurring romantic partner in Toronto. He maintains an on-again, off-again dynamic with Fabian, often reappearing at parties and complicating Fabian's attempts to move forward. He demonstrates little interest in who Fabian truly is beneath the surface.

Dallas is a star player for the Toronto Guardians who wields significant influence within the team. He contributes to a toxic locker-room culture by making derogatory remarks and constantly pressuring the enforcers to engage in violent play. He represents the systemic bigotry present in the professional sports world.

Duncan plays as an enforcer for a rival NHL team. He actively embraces the violent expectations of his position and responds aggressively to any perceived slights on the ice. He relies on intimidation to maintain his status in the league.

Colleen is Ryan's sister, maintaining a long-distance connection with him while he travels for work. She actively encourages him to settle down, buy furniture, and pursue a social life rather than isolating himself in a new city.

Ilya is a high-profile NHL star known for his talent and public rivalry with another player. He utilizes his status in the league to launch charity initiatives, drawing the attention and speculation of other players across the league.

Shane is an elite professional hockey player who maintains a famous rivalry with Ilya Rozanov. He expands his influence beyond the ice by initiating charitable work, sparking rumors among other teams in the league.

Bruce serves as the coach for the Toronto Guardians. He prioritizes aggressive strategy and physical dominance on the ice, often dismissing his players' personal well-being in favor of demanding harder work and more fights.