While you were Sleeping

18. Don't torture yourself

Juliana was a little nervous, she'd never been to a night club before, in the US she wasn't old enough to drink and wasn't the type to go to underage parties. Her grandparents didn't like alcohol and Lupe never brought it into the house, so Juliana had never actually tasted it.

She gave herself another glance in the mirror, she was happy with her appearance. Her make-up was light but defined her cheekbones, brown lipstick darkened her full lips and the silver eyeshadow and black mascara made her brown eyes pop. Her dark hair was pulled into a loose messy bun, leaving a few tendrils falling free around her face. She wore a short black dress; it was tight around her breasts and hips but gave way to a short flowy skirt. She did a quick spin smiling as the dress flared out a little. She loved this dress but she'd only worn it once.

Lupe had treated her to a new dress for her high school graduation, it was a day she would always remember fondly. Her mother had cried when Juliana received her diploma, as soon as it was over, she had thrown her arms around her, holding her tight while telling her how proud she was. She then surprised Juliana with dinner in a fancy restaurant to celebrate. Juliana had loved every minute of it, but was amazed her mother had been so extravagant, she was usually much more sensible with her money.

Juliana slipped her feet into her sandals, securing the clasp as her phone beeped.

Karla: Hey Juli! I'm almost ready, I'll order the taxi for 10pm then I'll pick you up. I'm so excited!!! 🥳 See you soon. xxx

Juliana smiled as she read the text message. She knew Karla's insistence on going out tonight was, in part, to help distract her. She had filled her in on most of her situation but refused to give names. Karla had worn a smug expression, like she already knew but Juliana was not ready to confess any more than she already had.

Juli: Sounds good. I'm ready. Let me know when you get here. xx

Juliana lifted her bag to make sure she had everything she needed. She opened her purse, making sure she had enough money, then dropped it into the bag along with her lipstick before adding her phone in and zipping it closed. "Ready!" She breathed, making her way towards the living room.

"Mija, you look stunning." Lupe said as her eyes took in the beautiful woman in front of her.

"Thanks Ma, and thanks for the dress, I'm glad I'm getting another chance to wear it!" she smiled and gave Lupe a twirl.

Lupe smiled as she watched her. "It looks even better now; I love your hair and makeup." Her tone became serious when she spoke again, "Juli, are you okay? You've been very quiet." She watched as Juliana's head dropped. "Did something happen with Valentina?"

Juliana quickly shook her head in denial. "No. I haven't spoken to her since," she admitted.

Lupe gave her a sympathetic look. "What happened after she asked to see you?"

Juliana nibbled on her bottom lip. "Nothing. I told her I couldn't meet her," she shrugged, she continued quickly when her mother went to speak. "Eva told me to stay away from her, she threatened to call the police! It doesn't matter if what she says is true or not, she's rich, the police will believe her!" Tears were pooling in her eyes, threatening to spill over, she had spent too long on her make up to allow that. She looked at the ceiling trying to calm herself as Lupe approached.

"I'm sorry mija, I didn't mean to upset you, I know you've become very fond of Valentina. Give yourself a day or two and work out what you want to say or do. Eva was probably trying to scare you, from what I've heard, you were the hero that day!" Lupe gently rubbed her daughter's arms trying to soothe her as Juliana closed her eyes and took deep breaths to calm herself.