Page 5 of Beautiful Venom

“Normal people?” Kane asks what I’m thinking. Seriously, maybe that guy is only in Vencor because he was born into a founding family.

He obviously doesn’t belong there.

“How about you?” Preston asks with a raised brow.

“I’m all set. Worry about yourself.”

All set? Does that mean he already has someone in mind?

I was supposed to worm my way into his life so that I’d be that someone.

Not too long ago, I applied to be an intern for the team’s physician, which is still on hold. My classmate said it was impossible that they’d accept a girl for the position while gloating that he’d be the best person for the job.

If he’s right, then my chances of getting closer to the team are slimmer than ever before. I could apply as an assistant to the administrative manager or even volunteer. However, those aren’t guaranteed with a popular team like the Vipers.

“All set, huh?” Preston repeats with a knowing tone.

“Go home, Armstrong.”

“Aye, aye, Captain.” Preston mock salutes, a sadistic smile painting his lips before he skates away. “Time to drown Callahan in the showers.”

As silence befalls the arena, Kane stands in the middle of the rink for a few seconds, then picks up the pucks they left lying around and stores them in the appropriate compartment.

My legs hurt from the strain, and I know if I don’t leave soon, I’ll fall over and give my position away.

I bite my lip and remain motionless.

I’ll leave after Kane does.

There’s no way I’d be able to sneak off while he’s there.

Stop being a Goody Two-shoes and go already.

The sound of skates blends with the ice machines and I get distracted with massaging my legs, so I don’t notice that Kane has skated to my side of the stands.

As I lift my gaze, he stops right opposite my hiding spot.

Cold seeps into my bones, and the air becomes so crisp that it hurts to breathe.

In the oppressive stillness, Kane’s calm voice carries through the empty arena. “You can come out now.”

I hide further, hoping—no, praying—that he’s speaking to someone else who was brave—or foolish—enough to sneak into Vipers Arena late at night.

“I know you’re there. I suggest you show yourself while it’s only me. I can’t promise the others will be as understanding.”

2

DAHLIA

My heart beats so hard, it nearly spills through my rib cage.

Sweat is now covering my hands as I tighten my grip on the chair. No amount of icy air could extinguish the fire that erupts at the bottom of my belly.

Kane’s words echo in my chest instead of my head, and I stop breathing altogether.

Yes, I intended to ‘meet’ him officially. But not like this. I was working on multiple plans to make it natural and believable.

Catching me in one of my snooping sessions is neither of the above.

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