「 quinn. 」twenty-eight. he / him. bi. pro-hockey player. mentor. businessman. star wars fiend. chocolate matcha megafan. professional power napper. fighter first, lover second ( jk hahaha unless . . .?? ). a bit of a donuts purist. ice cream is calcium. live, love, and bag skate, bro!
to: alyssa ( @sunshinesfm )
location: sunset villa beach ( pride fair )
“ i think you’d rock mermaid hair if not rainbow ombre, at least, ” quinn urges as he and alyssa mosey along the fair. it’s colorful and lively and fun and he’s glad they are out and about today. not that alyssa will ever say no to him — he knows she’s busy preparing for the upcoming fashion show, though she still needs to go out . . . and touch grass. or touch cute pride merch, and maybe get some inspiration along the way, too. quinn turns to alyssa. “ if you do mermaid hair, i’ll try the braids. deal? ”
to: @ziss0u
location: their fave chicken wings place
quinn is a little biased, but he loves pride month. it’s his favorite month-long event during the summer. besides, it’s nice to see visitors enjoying themselves around palmview. he dashes and avoids a few people as he casually sprints to his and indigo’s meeting spot. “ indi, hey, ” quinn says as he stands next to her. “ how’d you get here so fast? was there a shortcut? ” he looks around as though this so-called shortcut is going to manifest. “ let’s get inside before the chicken wings run out. ” it’s a joke; this chicken wings place always has chicken. “ i tried to get us a table, but they’re doing the walk-in situation right now, it seems. ”
✩ ◞ STARTER open to @br1llare .
✩ ◞ location sunset villa beach pride fair .
it’s so strange to his own ears to hear himself giggling. still, he can’t help it, not when he has managed to drag quinn to the bracelets and necklaces stand, not when he has him sitting in front of him, surrounded by an assortment of colorful beads ready to be used to create what will probably be some atrocious jewelry. “ so … what are you planning to make ? ” demian has always been a curious and impatient person, hence the question is eager, accompanied with an expectant smile. “ i’m a necklace type of guy, so i think i’ll start with that. what do you say ? ” they ask, separating green, purple, and cerulean beads so quinn can look at them. “ do you think it’s a fitting combo ? ”
bracelets and necklace making is a serious task — that’s what his best girl friends told him, at least. it’s handy now, too, because demian roped him into this activity, and well, quinn is going to do his best. “ hm, ” he hums while he takes a sip of his rainbow drink ( non-alcoholic; delicious, too ) and carefully sets it down next to him. “ definitely bracelets, ” quinn tells demian, holding out his wrist and measuring. “ maybe three or four of ‘em. ” then, he looks down at the colors demian picked, nodding and grinning at them. “ i like that combo, not too harsh on the eyes, too. ”
grabbing the elastic string, quinn briefly tests it out before he secures one end of it. “ i kinda wanna make an ombre effect bracelet set. is that possible? ” he grabs a blue bead stopper and then looks at demian once again. “ any tips? should i just go wild with it? ”
" hey ! i was waiting for you to finally show up ! " hadley would say turning to the other with a smile on her face. putting her phone right back into her pocket because she was just about to text them before noticing they had arrived here. it was getting to be the evening and she had been eying a couple of things that that'd be able to explore while they were here. " alright... are we going on one of these rides together ? i mean.. that's only just apart of the fun, right ? " she'd ask. " do you want me to beat you at one of the arcade games or should we stop and get food first ... i'm leaving the choice up to you ! "
quinn takes a deep breath and beams at hadley — he’s only a few minutes late; he’s usually punctual, but he didn’t consider how busy it gets during this time of the year. “ miscalculated my time of arrival yada yada, you know how it goes. ” after combing his fingers through his hair, he straightens up and walks up to her. “ sorry i’m late — i will make it up to you, ” quinn promises, doing a finger-gun before pretending to think for a moment. “ i know how to start us off. ” he turns to their right and points ahead of them. “ let’s hit that fortune teller machine. see what the fates have in store for us. sounds good? ”
"good morning, happy pride!" kenna grinned as she held out a flyer with all of the workshops she had coming up at the community center. "we have events going on all month long. does anything pique your interest?"
“ hey, kenna, ” quinn greets before accepting the flyer and doing a quick read of what’s printed. everything looks fun — the writing workshop had him chuckling. a few of his writer friends come to mind. “ what’s this tour through town? ” he taps his finger on the flyer and shows it to her. “ is it like a walking tour? ”
" welcome in. " the customer-service-lilt in iris's voice lifts up the otherwise flippant greeting, a call-and-response to the bell above the door ringing. " we have sales on crystals today, but i don't recommend the moldavite unless you're ready for — " ' mrrow '. iris's head snaps towards the sound at the same second xenomorph decides to jump from a high shelf onto whatever counter her guest had stopped in front of. oops. " oof — she's nice, i swear. s'why boss lets me keep her in here — you got salmon treats in your pocket or did you just manifest a cat today ? "
“ it’s a secret third thing, ” says quinn, eyeing xeno and giving them a friendly grin. iris’ cat probably thinks he’s another useless yet harmless guy — key here is harmless.
“ i got something here, ” he adds, fishing something from his baggy jeans pocket and setting it down on the glass countertop. “ it’s got a tag that says ‘if found, kindly return to shores herbalist shop’. ” quinn unwraps the folded tissue paper, revealing a necklace with a gemstone and a small tag. “ it looks like black kryptonite — pretty sure i saw my evil twin streaking down the country club. ” after shaking his head in amusement, he leans against the counter and looks at iris. “ seriously, do you know this stone? is it onyx or something like that? ”
[ … ] ❀ you’re not from around here , are you? i figured because you totally just missed QUINN MCKENNA walking by. don’t tell me you don’t know who HE is ? and i could be wrong but i think that they might be TWENTY-EIGHT years old right now. they’ve been living in palmview for the last FIFTEEN YEARS; ON AND OFF. and i don’t know if anyone has ever told them this before but they kind of remind me of JAKE AUSTIN from FREAKY FRIDAY + FREAKIER FRIDAY. if you stick around the town long enough you might catch them in action working at SUNSET SHACK as the OWNER. you see this town isn’t really that big of a place, some folks like to call them the THE CEREBRAL of palmview! they took a liking to the name too after a while, go figure. oh crap, they must have heard me yapping. they’re coming this way. i got to warn you though, rumor has it they can pretty INDIFFERENT at times. i wouldn’t take it too seriously though, from the times i’ve spoken to them they seemed pretty UNBIASED to me. we see each other all the time since they live in that 3 BEDROOM residence beside me over in BAYPOINT LANE / HOUSE #130. i better leave you to it. it was nice meeting you!
STATS . . .
Name: Quinn McKenna
Nickname: Quinn, Ken ( hockey nickname; the coaches call him Mac )
Age: 28
DOB: May 24
Zodiac: Gemini
POB: Sausalito, California
Current residence: Palmview Grove ( during the offseason ), Tampa ( during hockey season )
Languages: Fluent in Italian and English and French, can speak and read intermediate Spanish and German, knows a bunch of swear words in Russian and Finnish
Accent: North American
Gender: Cis man
Pronouns: He / him
Orientation: Bisexual
Occupation: Businessman ( owner of Sunset Shack ), Mentor ( Manatee youth hockey team + Dolphins youth surf club ), Pro-hockey player ( d-man for the Bo.lts; Alternate Captain )
Faceclaim: Belmont Cameli
Height: 6’2
Build: Lean / athletic
Eye / Hair color: Hazel / Brown
Tattoos: Full sleeve Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith poster + concept art ( right arm ), half sleeve of various Star Wars starships ( left arm ), ‘han shot first’ ( inner left wrist ), coordinates of his birthplace and birthday ( left ankle )
Piercings: Both earlobes
Distinguishing marks: Just the tats and piercings mentioned above
Positive traits: Unbiased, hardworking, witty, loyal, easy-going, stubborn
Negative traits: Indifferent, slightly reckless, can be impulsive
Label(s) / Trope(s): The Cerebral / The Athlete
Likes: Chocolate matcha drink, dogs, dry cereal, cooking/baking, sci-fi movies/books, bespoke clothing, hockey, surfing, basketball, boxing, donuts, boxed mac n’ cheese, sharp cheddar
Dislikes: Comic sans font, social media esp x, soggy cereal, celery, fruity tea, salmon, tardiness, dirty dishes
Fears: The Notebook movie
Hobbies: Morning jogs + workouts, cooking and baking, reading synopses out loud of tv movies on the Hallmark Channel, long walks, watching Ghost Adventures reruns, people watching
Habits: Prone to drumming his fingers on any surface when he’s impatient, or when he’s bored
Usual attire: A lot of bespoke pieces, long coats + bomber jackets, a couple of Jordan’s + Chucks. Comfortable fits on casual days, some baggy clothing here and there. European fit, focusing on silhouettes
Character visual: Here and here ( focusing on the long curls really )
BULLET BIO / TIMELINE . . .
NorCal . . . Los Gatos was Quinn’s first hometown. His moms settled and started their family there. Believe it or not, both of Quinn’s moms share the same surname — same spelling, too, even though Stevie and Isabel have no relation ( they even did a DNA test for the heck of it ). Their living situation was ideal: drive up a few miles and there’s the beach for sand and surfing, drive down a few miles, and there’s the ice hockey rink. Quinn loved hockey and surfing equally, though he knew that when he was slightly older, he would have to decide then. His moms and sister remain supportive throughout.
East Coast . . . Their family moved to Palmview when Quinn was thirteen. It was a big move, yet a productive one. Quinn met his first best friend — they hit it off right away; it was like they had known each other ever since. He was still into surfing, though he chose ice hockey as a career path. He was fifteen when he was invited to the USHL combine, and then he was drafted. And from that day on, it was a journey to propel him closer and closer to his dream.
Uni years at BC . . . Partied as much as he could during his freshman year so he could get that out of the way. He was also playing D1 hockey through an athletic scholarship. Quinn was a sophomore when an NHL team drafted him; it was surreal. Committed to his studies and winning a national championship, the TBL waited for him. College was an experience — he fell in love, fell out of love, had situationships, was mentioned in a silly rumor mill at one point, an honor roll student ( degree in accounting; it’s a numbers thing ). Quinn got to know himself more, too. He grew up, learnt to live on his own and make choices. Of course, he kept in touch with his family, his best friends; he stayed grounded. After graduation, he signed his official professional contract.
Pro career . . . Quinn’s draft class was regarded as one of the highest, considering the talent and promise. He briefly flew under the radar until the optics couldn’t ignore him anymore. He was a runner-up for the Calder, and it was humbling having his name on the ballot. The not-so-big surprise was the next two years — back-to-back Cups. Going to the Finals and winning the championship was Quinn’s Mt. Everest, yet they did it. It was between him and their goalie for the MVP. The parades were out of this world, and his family and friends were there with him. Quinn’s name was a constant when people in the hockey world were talking about the best d-men; he’s a standout; he’s bound for that Norris soon.
What a rollercoaster huh . . . Yeah, Quinn won the Norris — he was twenty-five. It’s a small validation, though he was appreciative and his speech at the NHL awards was solid and funny. He never made the game about himself — he prides himself on his hockey, sure, but it was always the team for him. It was always a ‘WE’. And when the team was excelling, it was the highest of highs, and if there was a stumble, it morphed into the lowest of lows. Being named the best d-man in the league meant an extra layer of expectation, and to the fanbase and analytics, it’s an added responsibility. Quinn is already his own worst critic, although he learnt not to be overly harsh on himself. He gets it — people only care about winning winning winning winning winning you got this work hard play with your injury you’re a warrior winning winning winning holy fuck!!
Take a moment and breathe . . . You are entertainment to these people; they forget that you’re a human being first, athlete second. When you and your team are winning, they are your number one fans; they are your ride and die. When you lose, they want their money back; they leave the arena before the final horn blows; all empty seats when you and the boys step off the ice. You remind yourself you’re human and perfection isn’t what you strive to be and you have a support system and you’re not alone. There’s a lot to learn from losing, but they don’t get that — they refuse to understand it. You get it; you were a fan first, too. You go through it because you need to, because this is also a job and you’re lucky you’re still playing. Face it, for all the passion and hard work and commitment you give and give and give and give … this game takes and takes so fucking much. Blood, sweat, and tears. You revisit your heartbreaks once because pain is love and love is just a feeling or is it the other way around jesus fucking christ you’re better than this. You think about your family, your friends, and that helps; it always does. You’re fine, you will be. Back to the grind. Wash, rinse, repeat. You will get better, you always do…
HEADCANONS . . .
Had to take a personal leave of absence two months before the regular season ended. It created speculation. A lot of buzz. A lot of made-up stuff.
The team still made it to the post-season and played in the first round of the playoffs. His absence was felt; many said they would have won that series if Quinn played.
During locker clean-up and exit media day, Quinn finally made an official appearance and answered questions. Afterward, he released an official statement through the team’s social media accounts explaining his absence.
Quinn needed a mental break. For someone who advocates Mental Health, he was overdue.
He’s feeling much, much better! That break helped a ton.
It’s currently offseason, so Quinn’s in Palmview.
He’s left-handed.
Is a morning person.
He gets bored easily and likes to keep himself busy.
He loves, loves, loves his friends. All ears and will listen if you need to rant or vent or yap. Or not even talk at all, sit in silence and all that.
His most cliché hockey boy thing is the chain necklace around his neck. He never takes it off, ever.
Doesn’t like surprises. Spare him the surprise; just go for it. No surprises, pls, thx.
Is a treat others how you want to be treated kind of guy.
One time, he brought this tote bag because it’s a suitable replacement for his old one; good for errands or grocery shopping or just for things. When the cashier rang the tote bag for him, it was fifty-seven bucks minus tax. Cue Quinn yelling on the inside: omfg for a tote bag?! Were the threads made of gold?!
Of course, he bought the tote bag. It would have been awkward if he didn’t. But yeah, he uses that tote bag and will continue to use it until it’s ratty because it cost him so much money. Wow, he regretted that moment. It is what it is.
Apropos of nothing, Quinn’s also an ambassador for quite a few luxury brands. He’s got a bunch of endorsements and sponsorships. He’s also collaborated with a few brands and designers.
Has a couple of side quests: does infomercial voice-overs and narrations, and translates Italian short stories into English.
Stop giving him fruitcake. He doesn’t like it. Who likes fruitcake? Come on now.
A pseudo himbo. Actually whip-smart, but would rather be pretty.
Still loves surfing; he surfs a lot during the offseason.
Quinn is actually a good cook and baker. He’s Italian, and his moms taught him at an early age.
Loves karaoke. A little obsessed with escape rooms.
A weeper. Anakin breaking Obi-wan’s heart scene? Quinn cries every time. A Dog’s Purpose film? Ugly crying from Quinn. Aragorn saying FOR FRODO in the Return of the King? Catch Quinn bawling.
Will probably teach you how to ice skate or surf, if you persuade him.
Quinn wouldn’t talk about hockey unless you mention it. Like how cute is that wiener puppydog! Or is a velvet tracksuit combo flashy or trashy!
Bought Sunset Shack 3 years ago from the original owner ( retired pro surfer ). She was practically family to Quinn, the fun auntie slash mentor, and when it was time for that official retirement, there was consideration to close shop or sell. Everything’s pretty much the same; there were some repairs, but it’s the same chill people running it!
Why the Cerebral, you ask? It harkens to Quinn’s hockey — he modeled his game after his fave players and added his own flair; he’s still growing his game, too. Hockey is constantly evolving. Could also be about his personality, esp those who are close to him. Mayhaps it’s both. Or it's all made up TBD djjsvjsjkvsjlnv.
As for Jake Austin, the character was: easy-going and super chill, great listener, has good taste in music, and an all-around good guy with a rockstar streak, and didn’t like the white stripes, too.
WANTED CONNECTIONS . . .
These are connections we can mix and match so it doesn’t have to be one connection! These are just a few! I’m open to ideas. I’m also super cool with going off chem and then come up with something later on.
Gimme all the positive healthy relationships. Yeah, love those.
Childhood best friends . . . Quinn’s first friends when he and his family moved to Palmview! We can play this out two ways. They remained friends throughout the years, even when Quinn left for his hockey development. Or they got a bit out of touch, only because they had their own dreams/ambitions and had to grow up, and they recently reconnected.
Best friends / Close friends . . . He’s got a sunny disposition! Friendly with everyone, but there are people he’s super close with, too.
Found family . . . Pretty self explanatory.
Frenemies . . . They pretend they don’t like each other, but they’re actually good friends. This is how they show their love… by pretend fighting aha.
Hook ups . . . Completely casual. No commitment at all. Could have been recent. Could have been the past couple of years.
An ex or two . . . Less animosity, but more on slight awkward conversations, trying to casually dance around the other and attempt at being friendly, but failing. Could have been during college. Could have been a couple of years ago.
Manatee Youth Hockey Team . . . Could be someone working with the youth hockey team? There are a bunch of positions in the organization! Quinn enjoys mentoring the kids!
Dolphins Youth Surf Club . . . Pretty much same as above, although with this one, the kids also like hanging out near Sunset Shack after their surf practice/training.
Your muse works at Sunset Shack . . . Plenty of job posts. And Quinn only goes there to check on everyone and how they’re doing. He’s not a helicopter boss.
Neighbors?
Volunteer buddy.
Gym buddy.
Food run buddy.
Sports fan? Hockey fan?
Social media mutuals? Even though Quinn is not chronically online.
Schoolmates even, if this is possible.
ANYTHING. THROW RANDOM IDEAS AT ME PLS I WELCOME IT. WE CAN HASH ‘EM OUT AND COME UP WITH SOMETHING FUN.