A flicker of horror lit up behind Casey's eyes at the mention of Thomas Wood. Letting his gaze snap towards Orna, he shook his head, "Careful what you say." Nudging her back playfully, he continued, "Besides, I'd much rather be admired and in good favour than have a group dedicated to hating me."
Take the lead? Although he begrudgingly admitted it, he was something of a good leader. Being the captain of a team did that to you. He was fair and just in his position of power, so it did seem obvious that he take charge here too. "Of course I don't want either of them hurt," he began quietly, thinking things over. How was he supposed to get Max to notice Becca as something more than a friendly rival? Without coming out and telling him directly, of course. "I'll have to think of something. I can't just tell him, but we can't drop hints that are too subtle. He won't get them."
Tapping his chin with his forefinger, Casey bit his lip. Perhaps..."Okay, what if you bought him? If you buy him and then either fake illness or politely decline? Give the date to Becca? It's a long shot, but it might work."