Operation: Threads of Connection

Promise

Damian's POV:

My hand hurt like hell. But at the end of the day, I don't care how hurt I get, no one will ever talk about Anya, nor lay a hand on her. After Anya and I said our goodbyes I watched as she walked away towards the exit. Becky had come back just at the exact moment I could no longer see Anya's figure.

"Ready to go,Desmond?" She asked smirking. I knew exactly why she chose to go to the bathroom, I rolled my eyes and proceeded walking towards Mr. Henderson's class. "Shouldn't I be getting a thank you!" she yelled out as followed right behind me. Becky did help me get Anya to meet me at the lake. Initially Becky and I had a rocky relationship, maybe it's because we saw a lot of similarities in one another. But something, I won't deny is in fact; Becky Blackwell is a loyal friend.

"Thank you..." I murmured softly. Becky's eyes widened before she gave me a small smile. I can see why Anya is her friend. I think the least I can do is tolerate her. Just like Sebastian. Slowly, it seems my circle is expanding. Ewen and Emilie were the only two I would consider my friends. Although lately they've been acting a bit... different?

"Hey Damian," Becky began. She almost never calls me by my first name. I turned around to face her. She began to figit with her hair, something I noticed she did when she got nervous. Was I that intimidating? After a couple seconds, she averted her eyes towards me, they were full of concern- something I wasn't used to seeing from her.

"What was Rowan talking about... you know about Alina?" Becky asked. I guess Anya didn't tell her about it. Regardless, the news was to come out, Anya and I ended up together despite Alina blackmailing the realse of the video. It doesn't matter anymore, I won't let it define who I am.

"Long story short, Alina threatened Anya to stay away from me. If Anya didn't comply, Alina would expose a video of my last performance to the entire school," I said fairly calm. Becky looked at me with a confused expression.

"That bitch, but what's so bad about a performance video?" She asked. I couldn't help but run a hand through my hair. I can trust her. She's Anya's best friend.

"Becky... Can you keep a secret?" I ask. Becky's expression softened slightly, her curiosity piqued. She nodded earnestly, her nervous fidgeting momentarily ceasing.

"Of course, Damian. I promise," she replied.

I took a deep breath, preparing to divulge the truth. "The video isn't just any performance. It's a recording of the aftermath. Sebastian and I have known each other for quite some time. We were in piano camp for many years. At the end of our term, there was a competition. My father's one and only request to me was to not ruin the Desmond name... Well, I ended up doing just that on that night. My father was very upset with me..." I hesitantly began to unbutton my shirt. Becky's eyes widened.

"Damian wha-" Before she could finish her sentence I showed her the scars left from that night. Her eyes widened even more, her expression shifting from curiosity to shock and concern. The scars were faint but unmistakable, a testament to the harsh consequences of that night.

"Damian..." she whispered, her voice trembling. "I had no idea."

I quickly buttoned my shirt back up, feeling a mixture of shame and vulnerability. "I don't like talking about it," I admitted. "If I'm being completely honest with you. I haven't even showed Anya yet... I'm afraid that she'll find it repulsive." I said turning around. Becky quickly ran in front of me blocking me from moving anywhere.

"Stop it! You know Anya loves you, she would never think that about you! I know I've been nothing but a snotty brat to you, but I know my best friend. She's one of the kindest people I have ever met. She would never say anything to hurt you..." Becky said panting, her eyes glistening with unshed tears."I'm so sorry, Damian. I had no idea you went through something like that. But you don't have to worry. I won't let Alina or anyone else use that against you."