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“Because I have elite athletes here.” She replied, harshly. “Because I have people who believe in my work, trust me and know how to be disciplined and talented. Because excellence is not something that comes out of nowhere. In fact, it requires a lot of work. An unstoppable work in search of perfection.” A sigh escaped her as her fingers went towards her face like tweezers, massaging her eyes for a moment.

I wanted to cry again, but I wouldn't dare in that situation. I knew how to be resilient when I needed to.

“I don't have room on this team for anyone who doesn't enjoy being here, Veronica.”

My shoulders sagged. However, I couldn't give up. I couldn't stop fighting for something I dreamed of and really wanted.

“Please, don't kick me out! I will improve, I will work harder.”

“Promises are not enough, because the words spoken are sometimes empty. I need more than that.”

I looked at her and took a deep breath.

“Karlee, I fought to be here. I want to dedicate myself 100% to the team and this sport that I love so much. I was just going through a bad time, but I promise you this will all change. Tomorrow you will find a new Veronica training.”

She smiled, saddened, and pointed to the chair, finally allowing me to sit down.

“I don't want a new Veronica, I just want the Veronica who came here and gave the most impeccable test I've ever seen in my life.” Her voice seemed calmer, trying to be comforting and succeeding in that. “You are an exceptional athlete, we both know that. Now I just need you to show me this again in practice.”

I nodded, agreeing with her. I really needed to do this.

“There is no threat of kicking you out off the team.” she joked, but I was so tense I couldn't even laugh. “But I really need your head in the game. Because it is dangerous to not be fully present, not only in relation to your own safety, but also the safety of your teammates.”

“I know…”

Her hands rested on my shoulders, forcing me to face her. A gentle and understanding smile was displayed on her face.

“New day, new attitude tomorrow, yeah?! Deal?”

I agreed and the coach dismissed me.

The hallway between her office and the gym was freezing. And silent. For a moment, I was grateful for that and continued walking, trying not to fill my head with inappropriate thoughts. It couldn't continue like that.

I took my bag and went out into the hot day, with the sun shining.

“Hey...” Troian stopped in front of me. Emily was there too. “Are you good?”

“Yes, I just messed up badly today…” I whispered . “But I'll bounce back, don't worry.” I wasn't happy with both of them either.

Emily gave me an encouraging smile.

“Anyways, you two could have woken me up today.” I glared at them.

They both blushed slightly and fell silent at the same moment. I was fully aware that I was being cruel, but I didn't care. I was annoyed at them.

“I'm not your mother, Veronica.” Emily snapped.

I laughed, was she being serious? Were they going to play dumb? God, how unbearable.

“And, apparently, not my friend either.” I complained.

“Hey, stop!” Troian asked. “We didn't know if we should have, you were too devastated yesterday, we didn't want to bother you.”

I smirked.

“You're playing dumb, Troian, but it's okay. It's good to know who really are the people I live with.” I was about to slap that stupid expression off their faces.

I hated it when people pretended to be clueless. Me being sad about my breakup wasn't a reason for them to leave me behind when they left for practice. They could have at least checked if I was awake before heading out. I don't get it, wasn’t that common sense?