216

JASMINE

“Hello, everyone!” I called, causing everyone to pause and listen, “I know we are done with practice for the day but the club coach wants to address us. I need you all to hold on for a bit.”

I turned to Ashley, who was standing just beside me, smiling like a fool. After she told me about the rivalry in the palace, she now appeared to be more comfortable sharing things with me.

If only she had an idea what I was up to, she wouldn’t take the offer to stand beside me.

I was, however, happy about something, I was gradually breaking her wings. Earlier on, just some minutes before the end of cheer practice, I saw her alone. I called but she didn't hear.

I was literally in front of her before she noticed me.

“Oh, Jasmine, hi!”

I swallowed the look of disdain that was fighting hard to sit on my face. I shifted to a worried look, instead.

“Are you fine, Ashley? I have been calling you! How come you did not hear me? And why are you sitting here like this?” I pointed to the rock she was