(Vale's POV)
I wasn't supposed to be out that late.
But the road was empty, the sky full of stars, and my thoughts louder than ever. So I drove.
The city lights blurred past as I raced along the edge of downtown, not recklessly—but with purpose. The hum of the engine was steadier than my heartbeat.
Until I saw headlights behind me.
Not a police car.But definitely not random.
I took a sharp turn through the side streets near the river, heart spiking as the other car followed—then vanished when I cut into an alley only I knew. I killed the lights and held my breath.
Whoever it was… they were close.
I waited until everything went still again before taking the long way back.
-------------------------------------------------
The next day, at school, I tried to act normal.
Kian was already in the art room when I walked in, lounging like he owned the table. His eyes lifted, and for the briefest second, I felt seen. Like maybe he had been the car behind me.
But he didn't say anything.
Which was worse.
"You weren't here yesterday," he said casually, tapping a charcoal stick on the desk.
"Neither were you," I lied.
His eyes narrowed slightly. "I was. You sure you're not mistaking me for someone else?"
I didn't answer. Just dropped my bag and sat across from him.
He leaned forward. "You're good at hiding. I'll give you that."
"And you're good at assuming."
A flicker of a smile crossed his face. "Touché."
But something about his voice had changed—more deliberate. Like he was digging without a shovel.
--------------------------------------------------
Later, I caught Hanisha waiting near my locker.
"You okay?" she asked.
"Why wouldn't I be?"
"Because your eyes say panic, but your face says I dare you to ask again."
I sighed. "I think Kian's onto something."
Hanisha grinned. "You afraid he'll find your Batcave?"
I didn't answer.
Because a small, traitorous part of me… wondered if I wanted him to.