Too Late

“Relationships never begin well with lies. Especially lies like mine.”

Carter watches Sloan walk away and is surprised at how much, and how quickly, he likes her. His quote has two layers to it. He has to lie to Sloan because he is working undercover, not because he enjoys deceiving her. The line also serves as a reminder that Sloan began her relationship with Asa after he pursued an aggressive seduction campaign that was based completely on lies.

“It’s the harmless moments like these that, if they occur often enough, will end up being a hell of a lot more than just harmless.”

Carter knows that Asa’s willingness to hurt Sloan in front of him doesn’t bode well for her safety. Abuse tends to escalate with time. His comment foreshadows his growing feelings for Sloan, as well as the spiral of Asa’s abuse.

“I realize some women are drawn to men like Asa. I’ve been in this career long enough to see that. I try to empathize and understand it, but I can’t fathom why Sloan remains in the situation she’s in. It’s so damn painful having to sit back and watch it, because I don’t know what’s kept her there.”

Luke’s confusion about Sloan’s apparent unwillingness to break ties with Asa is understandable, but it is the viewpoint of someone who has most likely never been abused. Each time Sloan goes back to Asa, he gains more control over her. The cycle perpetuates itself. However, this quote comes before Luke knows about her situation with Stephen.