Chapter 2: The Ravens

5:30 p.m. Volleyball practice ended.

(Whistle blows)

“Alright, ladies, gather up. I’ll make this quick—I’m tired and ready to crash in bed,” Coach Mark said, clapping his hands as we gathered around.

“No interruptions, please.”

He waited for silence before continuing. “Today’s the last school day of the year, and that short one-hour-thirty-minute practice? Not enough. So we’re keeping it going through the summer. Our goal: win regionals, qualify for nationals. No skipping unless it’s necessary—and with your parents’ permission.”

He paused. “Starting tomorrow, practice runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. That’s four hours with a 15-minute break each hour. Not that horrible, right?”

We stayed quiet. No one dared react.

“Any concerns, complaints? Limit it to one question. Time check: 5:45 p.m.”

Beth leaned in. “Hey, Aria, where do you think Coach learned to talk like that? So sassy. I might befriend him just for entertainment.”

I smirked. “This is why I think you have a thing for our coach.”

She rolled her eyes. “No. I. Don’t. Stop it or I’ll bring up that pretty boy you like—what’s his name again? Jared? And don’t forget, I’m taller than you.”

“Ouch. Low blow,” I laughed.

“Yeah, well, I’d rather have a thing for your brother than for Coach.”

I nearly burst out laughing.

“What’s so wrong with our coach? He’s tall, fit, only four years older than us. If he trimmed that shaggy hair, shaved the beard, got some sleep, ditched the glasses… he might actually look decent. I know beauty when I see it.”

Beth took a sip from her water bottle. “Aria, you just said ‘trust me’ and ‘I think’ in the same sentence. You sure you’re qualified to judge?”

I grinned. “Fair point.”

“Tell Auntie her food was amazing again,” Beth added. Everyone on the team calls Mom “Auntie.”

I nodded. “Will do.”

Coach clapped again. “Great, no questions? We are—”

Samantha, number 8, raised her hand.

Coach sighed, hands on hips. “Great timing, Samantha.”

His deadpan expression cracked me up. Honestly, if he took better care of himself, he might look good. Beth caught my glance. “See? He’s funny.”

We both smiled.

“Yes, Samantha?”

We respect Coach, but his facial expressions alone set the tone—firm but fair. Still, he can be a little intimidating.

“Sorry, Coach. I’m just worried. Practice ends at 9 p.m.—what about getting home safely?”

Samantha’s always thoughtful. She’s built like Beth, plays judo, and has a strong sense of care.

Coach nodded. “Good question. Ms. Daisy Sonderman’s grandfather has arranged cars to take everyone home individually. So no need to worry. Happy birthday, Daisy, and big thanks to your grandfather.”

He gave her a polite bow before dismissing us.

Individually chauffeured rides? Every day for the whole summer? That’s... a lot. I know she means well, but it still feels like she’s showing off. And the others? Practically swarming her. I didn’t want to be one of them.

I grabbed my stuff and headed to the bathroom. One missed call from Mom.

Voicemail: “Aria, darling, no one’s home, but a package just got delivered outside. It’s from Aunt Marie. Be careful heading home. Love you.”

I slipped my phone into my bag, washed my face—then groaned. Forgot my towel. Tissue would have to do.

As I was fixing myself up, Daisy appeared at the door.

“Hey, Aria,” she said. “Would you like to join us for karaoke in the car?”

She waited for me—just to ask that? She really is kind. But I couldn’t. Not with this strange discomfort I always feel around her.

“Oh, Daisy, thank you. That’s really sweet, but I’ve got an errand from Mom. I hope you all have fun. And happy birthday,” I said, offering a small smile. It was the best I could do without outright saying I needed space.

“Oh.” Her face fell.

My stomach twisted. I hated how guilty I felt. I didn’t want to hurt her—but I needed to set a boundary. Like Coach Mark said, firm but fair.

“Yeah, I’ve gotta go. Bye.” I gave another awkward smile and walked past her. Luckily, Samantha and a bodyguard stepped in.

I ran toward the school gate. The sunset was breathtaking—soft, golden, full of promise. For a moment, I felt lighter.

Quack.

Quack.

I looked up. Black birds circled the trees. A cold breeze swept through, raising goosebumps. Their eerie cries echoed around me as the sky darkened.

I shivered.

I should get home.

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