Val's P.OV

The heavy, post-adrenaline silence in Brielle’s bedroom began to soften, replaced by a buzzing, giddy energy. The fear had receded, leaving behind the raw, intimate bond of a shared secret and a victory that felt both dangerous and righteous. We were wired, exhausted, but too keyed up to sleep.

Juliette, curled up like a cat at the foot of the bed, was the one who nudged us into softer territory. She traced the pattern on a pillowcase, a dreamy look in her eyes. “You ...