Page 119 of Beautiful Collide

Unknown Number:You’ve had the same phone since I met you.

Molly:??‍?? I don’t save numbers of men who annoy me for a living.

Unknown Number:That’s a lie. I annoy you recreationally. I don’t even get paid for it.

Molly:That’s unfortunate for you.

Unknown Number:You’re telling me. I’d be a billionaire by now.

Molly:Congrats on the article, though. Truly. You must be so humble about it.

Unknown Number:Humility is for people whoAREN’Tdescribed as a hockey god. I’m just embracing the truth.

Molly:Right, because your ego clearly needed a boost.

Unknown Number:I’m here to inspire. It’s practically a public service.

Molly:You should put that on your résumé. “Hockey god, legend, and part-time philanthropist dedicated to fixing overpopulation by annoying innocent victims to death.”

Unknown Number:Don’t forget “bringer of joy” and “man of the people.”

Molly:Man of the people?????? Who are these people? And are you sure they don’t live inside your head?

Unknown Number:My fans. The same ones who chant my name. Don’t act like you haven’t heard it.

Molly:Oh, I hear it. It’s hard not to when they’re chanting it at decibels that could shatter glass.

Unknown Number:It’s the sound of greatness, Hex. You’ll get used to it.

Molly:I’ll put in earplugs.

Unknown Number:Still won’t drown me out. I’m unforgettable.

Molly:Unbearable is the word you’re looking for.

Unknown Number:Close enough. So . . . you saving this number yet?

Molly:Nah. I’ll just keep calling you “Who is this?” It feels right.

Unknown Number:Unbelievable. I’ll have you know that I’ve been described as a god AND a legend. Yet you’re treating me like a scam caller.

Molly:Honestly, you do give scammer vibes.

Unknown Number:Keep talking to me like this and I’m billing you for my therapy.

Molly:Oh, please, you love it.

Unknown Number:. . .

Molly:We both know you have a degradation kink. Why else would you still talk to me after four years of being thoroughly roasted?

Unknown Number:Shut up and save my number, Hex. You’ll need it when you decide you can’t resist me anymore.

Molly:Don’t hold your breath, Wilde.

Unknown Number:I’ll wait. You’re worth it.

Molly:Nice try.

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