Chapter 24: Hammers and Guns

Victoria P.O.V

Victoria ties the black scarf tighter around her neck while holding the door open for Noah to walk through behind her.

“Oh, it’s cold tonight.” Noah shivers and thrusts his hands into the pockets of his dark blue coat.

“Well, it is Winter.” Victoria laughs and turns to lock the front doors of the ice rink. The owner gave both her and Noah a set of keys a few months ago since they always end up staying the latest. If they promised to clean and lock up, they could stay as long into the night as they wanted.

Victoria had said yes before the owner had even finished explaining the conditions.

They walk quickly toward Noah’s lone red Toyota hatchback, the rest of the parking lot empty. Her bones and muscles ache with every step, a sign of a great day of practice. Yet, despite the sting of pain, she can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride. Her pain is only temporary, proof that she’s pushing herself and giving it her all.