Chapter 0020

The weight of my own exhaustion presses down on me like the gravity of a dozen moons. It's unbelievable that I have reached the final rounds; I am currently gasping for air and struggling to regain my composure. My muscles scream in protest as I reach for another swig from the bottle. The cool liquid offers temporary relief, washing away the metallic taste of adrenaline that lingers in my mouth.

"Hey," a voice calls out, pulling me from my moment of respite. My gaze snaps up to find Noah, the guy who placed #12, standing before me. I instantly notice his warm, sunny disposition and the way his eyes seem to sparkle like stars whenever he looks at me. It's both endearing and unnerving. "You were really awesome out there."

"Uh, thanks." My voice falters, unsure of how to process his compliment. I've never been one to get attention or praise outside of my pack, especially from someone like him. "I didn't think I'd make it this far."

"Neither did I," Noah admits, flashing me a disarming