CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE - THE CHAOS OF PREPARATION

    As the first rays of dawn began to peek through the blinds, they finally had a polished presentation. Nia stretched, her joints popping after hours of sitting hunched over her laptop. "We did it," she said, trying to inject some enthusiasm into her voice. "Thanks for staying up all night to help, Helia. I really appreciate it." Helia smiled, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Of course. That's what friends are for, right?" As they packed up their things, Nia's mind raced. Had she jeopardized her secret? More importantly, had she put her friendship with Helia at risk? The thought made her stomach churn. "Hey, Helia," Nia said as they stood at the door. "I just want you to know... you can always ask me anything. If there's stuff you want to know about me, I mean." Helia looked at her for a long moment, then nodded. "I know, Nia. And when you're ready to talk, I'll be here to listen." With that, Helia left, leaving Nia alone with her thoughts and the mess of their all-night