20~ A Glimmer of Hope

JESSICA

We resumed our standoff, and the tension of the air felt thick. I could see the pride in Vanessa’s eyes, but also the determination to break me. I had to prove that I was ready, not just for her, but for everyone I needed to protect.

Vanessa darted to the side, trying to catch me off guard, but I anticipated her move. I met her head-on, our bodies collided with a force that shook the ground. For a moment, we grappled, each trying to overpower the other.

I felt my muscles burning, my breath coming in ragged gasps, but I couldn’t let her win even though I knew well that she was a thousand times stronger than I was. But then... I couldn't give her the chance. Not this time.

I summoned every ounce of strength I had left, pushing back against her with all my might. Our eyes locked, and she had that deceiving smirk on her face.

"Now don't give me that look, because I'm gonna rip that head off your face."

She laughed. "I love your confidence, sweetheart, it makes me want to do more