The next afternoon, the cheerleading squad was practicing on the open field behind the school. The girls were in their bright uniforms, practicing flips, chants, and formations under the warm sun. Their voices carried across the grass as they counted out the beats.
Amy and Sera walked toward the group with purpose. Amy had changed into a simple athletic outfit, her hair tied back neatly. Sera walked beside her, calm and composed on the outside, but her mind was already calculating every move.
They stopped at the edge of the practice area.
Sera cleared her throat loudly.
The girls paused their routine and turned to look at them.
“Who’s the leader here?” Sera asked, voice clear and confident.
A tall senior girl stepped forward, wiping sweat from her forehead. Her name was Valerie — con
