One Kiss Left

Chapter 34

Valentina's pov

The bus ride back home from New York was a mix of exhaustion and lingering anxiety. Our victory at the competition felt hollow after what happened to Stephanie. Her injury cast a long shadow over our win, and the threatening messages I kept receiving didn't help. I sat by the window, staring out at the blur of the highway, my thoughts a tangled mess.

Gina nudged me gently. "Hey, you okay? You've been quiet since we left."

I forced a smile. "Yeah, just tired, I guess."

She didn't seem convinced but let it slide. "Well, I've got some snacks if you want any. You know, to keep the spirits up."

I appreciated her effort and took a granola bar from her. "Thanks, Gina."

We fell into a comfortable silence, the bus filled with the murmurs of our teammates and the hum of the engine. I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that had settled over me since Stephanie's accident. My phone buzzed in my pocket, and I tensed, expecting another threatening message. But it was just Heaven.

Hey, how are you holding up?

I sighed in relief, typing back quickly.

I'm okay. Just worried about everything.

Me too. But we'll figure it out. We always do.

Her reassurance was comforting, but the fear was still there. I glanced over at her a few rows back. She caught my eye and gave me a small, encouraging smile. I smiled back, feeling a little better.

As the bus continued its journey, I eventually dozed off, the fatigue of the past few days catching up with me. My dreams were restless, filled with images of Stephanie's injury and the threatening messages. When I woke up, we were almost home. The sun was setting, casting a warm orange glow over everything.

Coach Sanders stood up at the front of the bus, clapping her hands to get our attention. "Alright, team, we're almost back. I want everyone to rest up and be ready for school tomorrow. And remember, we're here for each other. If anyone needs to talk, you know where to find me."

We nodded, appreciating her support. As we pulled into the school parking lot, there was a sense of relief to be back on familiar ground. But the tension was still there, lurking in the background.

My mom was waiting for me when we got off the bus. She hugged me tightly, her concern evident. "How are you, mija?"

"I'm okay, mami," I said, trying to sound convincing.

She looked at me closely, sensing my unease. "Let's get you home. We can talk more there."

I nodded, grateful to be heading home. The ride was quiet, and I spent it lost in thought. When we got home, I went straight to my room, needing some time alone. I flopped onto my bed, staring at the ceiling.

I couldn't shake the feeling that whoever was behind the threats was still out there, watching. My phone buzzed again, and I hesitated before picking it up. It was another message from the unknown number.

You can't hide from me, Valentina. I know everything.

My heart pounded in my chest, fear gripping me. I needed to talk to Heaven. She was the only one who truly understood what I was going through. I typed out a quick message.

Can we talk?

Her response was immediate.

Of course. Want to meet somewhere?

How about the park? I need some fresh air.

Sounds good. See you in 15?

I agreed and quickly changed into something more comfortable. I decided to wear blue jean cargos, with a pink tube top. Telling my mom I needed to clear my head, I headed out to the park. The air was cool and refreshing, a welcome contrast to the stifling tension I'd been feeling.