Page 119 of Sticks & Serpents

Kara:You haven’t been officially cleared to play since Logan Hartley’s injury. Three shattered fingers. Torn ligament. Possible nerve damage.

Damien:He ran his mouth.

Kara:He’s off the ice for the rest of the season. Some say he may not return at all.

Damien:shrugsShould’ve stayed in his lane.

Kara:Did you attack him?

Holly:Kara.

Kara:It’s a fair question.

Damien:Depends what you mean byattack. Did I hit him? Sure. Did I want him to stop texting my girl? Definitely. Did I tell him to back off? Repeatedly. You’re acting like I didn’t warn him.

Kara:So Holly is…?

Damien:Mine. Always was.

Holly:quietlyThat’s not how this works.

Damien:turns to her, voice softerYou’re still here, aren’t you?

Kara:blinks, scribbles somethingThe NHL has eyes on this. Does any of that worry you?

Damien:They want results. I deliver. They’ll look the other way if I win games. They always do.

Kara:And Crestwood?

Damien:Crestwood’s never been about clean reputations. It’s about power. Control. Blood on the ice is just part of the game.

Kara:And what’s next for Damien Sinclaire?

Damien:I burn down whatever’s left in my way. Especially if they run their mouths about my girl.

Holly:I swear, Damien. Your future…

Kara:a beatOkay. Well. That’s—intense. Thank you for your time, Damien. Holly.

mutters as they leave

Jesus. Why do the hottest ones always come with warning labels?