I Know What You Are

Valerie’s POV

I remained frozen.

Didn’t say a word.

What was I supposed to say?

Because I was scared I’d finally blow my cover the second I crossed the damn door?

Because I didn’t want her to see me for who I really am? And then she would ask, ‘Who are you, truly?’

Nah!

Not today.

“Val,” she said softly. “You okay?”

No.

Not even close.

But I nodded anyway. Just once.

She didn’t move. Didn’t push.