Episode 37: Playing with Fire
Jaden barely slept that night.
By morning, he had made up his mind.
He wasn't calling that number.
Not yet.
If Iron Stride was really rigged? Then he would win without their help.
He stepped onto the field, his mind sharper than ever. No distractions. No doubts.
Then—a familiar voice behind him.
"Rough night?"
Jaden sighed before turning. Ava.
She stood there, arms crossed, eyes gleaming.
Jaden smirked. "You really don't quit, do you?"
Ava chuckled. "Not when I see something interesting."
Jaden exhaled. "I'm not playing whatever game you're playing."
Ava tilted her head. "Who says I'm playing?"
Jaden narrowed his eyes. She was lying. She always was.
Ava stepped closer. Too close. "You should loosen up, Carter. You can't carry the weight of the world forever."
Jaden didn't move. Didn't react.
Ava's smirk widened. "You're thinking about it, aren't you?"
Jaden exhaled. "Thinking about what?"
She leaned in slightly. "What it would be like to lose control."
Jaden clenched his jaw. This girl was dangerous.
He took a step back. "Not interested."
Ava chuckled. "For now."
Then she walked away, leaving Jaden standing there, his pulse louder than it should have been.
This place was a fucking trap.
And the worst part?
He was starting to feel it.