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A Distraction

last update Last Updated: 2025-03-20 19:45:29

Kade

The low hum of the engine fills the car, the city lights blurring past the window as we move. I sit in the back, one leg stretched out, my fingers absently tapping against my knee. Across from me, Nikolai sits with his usual air of indifference, watching the world outside like it has something to prove to him.

He hasn’t said much since we got in, but that’s nothing new. Nikolai Volkov doesn’t talk unless there’s a reason. Which is why, when he finally speaks, I don’t take it lightly.

“Forget about Paul, Amelia, and Harlow,” he says, his voice even. “Focus on you, like you always do.”

I glance at him, but he isn’t looking at me. Just staring out the window, his expression unreadable.

“You better kick ass out there,” he continues. “For a change, I’m betting on your team to win.”

That catches me off guard, but I smirk, shaking my head. “You don’t bet on my team?”

His lips twitch like he’s amused, but he doesn’t fully smile. “I don’t bet on anything I can’t guarantee.”

I huff a laugh
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