CHAPTER 50: THE DEATH OF ME

SELENA'S POV

My heart is racing in my chest, pounding against my ribcage like it's demanding to be set free. My hands are clammy with sweat and I can feel the water bottle slipping through my fingers. I take a deep breath, trying to calm myself down, but it only makes me feel more self-conscious.

Why am I feeling like this? I've talked with guys before, so why is the thought of talking to Zander and giving him a freaking water bottle making me feel so hot and embarrassed? My mind is racing, trying to come up with an explanation for my sudden physical reaction.

Ana is cheering me on, but I can barely hear her over the sound of my own heartbeat. I know I need to keep going, but every step feels like a monumental effort.

I squeeze the water bottle tightly, using it as a physical anchor to keep myself grounded. I know I can't let my nerves get the best of me, but it's easier said than done. I take another deep breath and force myself to keep moving forward, one step at a time. Maybe if I