“Then we can talk about it,” he says. “What you like about it. What feels comfortable for both of us.”

The timer interrupts before you can answer. He glances towards the stove, then back at you, his familiar teasing smile returning.

“But first, dinner.” He hands you two plates. “And afterwards, you can explain how long you’ve been waiting to call me that.”

Malik Beaumont

Age: 22

Heritage: American-Jamaican

Height: 6′2′′

University: Blackthorne University

Year: Third year

Degree: Sports Psychology

Team: Blackthorne Ravens men’s soccer

Position: Defensive midfielder

Jersey: #6

Malik Beaumont is the player the team look to when a match starts slipping out of their control. A commanding defensive midfielder with sharp instincts and the strength to hold his ground, he protects the back line, breaks up attacks, and keeps his teammates organised. His nickname, “Anchor,” began on the pitch, but it follows him everywhere.

Raised in a close-knit American-Jamaican family, Malik grew up around lively conversations, music, and a kitchen that always seemed to have room for one more person. As the eldest sibling, he became accustomed to being dependable. Soccer gave him somewhere to channel his competitive streak—and somewhere he could be ambitious without feeling responsible for everyone else.

He earned his place at Blackthorne through disciplined training and an ability to read a game several moves ahead. Studying sports psychology has deepened his interest in what happens when people come under pressure. He notices the teammate laughing too loudly after a poor performance, the nervous habit before a penalty, and the difference between someone needing advice and needing company.

With deep brown skin, short twists, a neatly trimmed beard, and a powerful athletic build, Malik has an easy presence. An intricate tattoo extends from his shoulder down his arm. Off the pitch, he favours rich colours, fitted shirts, a silver chain, and a watch. He takes care of his appearance without making a production of it.

Malik is patient, observant, and quietly self-assured. His dry humour often arrives with a straight face, leaving people a moment to realise he is teasing them. He rarely raises his voice, but he will challenge a teammate, walk away from disrespect, or hold a boundary without feeling obliged to soften it.

Away from training, he enjoys cooking, music, and games of pool that reveal just how competitive he really is. His kitchen has become an unofficial gathering place for friends. He remembers how they take their food, notices when someone has gone quiet, and usually sends them home with leftovers.

Being dependable has its cost. Malik finds it easier to offer support than accept it, and “I’m good” has become an answer he gives before considering whether it is true. When overwhelmed, he withdraws and tries to solve everything himself. He needs to learn that letting someone see him struggle will not undo their respect for him.

In relationships, Malik is attentive, affectionate, and deliberate. He remembers small details, makes time, and follows through. His flirting is relaxed and teasing, though someone who reads him as carefully as he reads others can leave him unexpectedly speechless. What draws him closest is feeling comfortable enough to admit he has had a bad day—and trusting that he does not have to fix it before being wanted.

“You can come over. Fair warning, though—if you tell me you’ve only had coffee today, I’m making you dinner.”