At that moment Valentina's legs felt like they weren't hers anymore—like her knees might give way with every slow step she took. But she kept her back straight, her eyes low, her pace calm. No sudden movements, no panic.
Then She gave them a brief nod and a tired smile, muttering softly, "Just the restroom… I think I need a moment."
The men nodded in return, one of them standing halfway in mock concern. "Of course, please take your time, Miss Valentina. I hope everything is alright."
She didn't answer.
Her fingers grazed the wall briefly as she walked, just enough to steady herself without making it obvious. Her vision was doubling for seconds at a time, her breathing slower than usual—heavy, like the air had turned into syrup.
When she reached the restroom, she shut the door behind her, locked it, then staggered to the sink.
She turned on the tap and splashed water on her face.
One. Two. Three times.
The coldness jolted her. But it didn't stop the spinning in her head.
