"If I ran away, I'd never have the strength to go very far. How would they hear the beating of my heart? Will it grow cold, the secret that I hide? Will I grow old? How will they hear? When will they learn? How will they know?"

~Live to Tell by Madonna~

⭒⭒⭒

A/N: I KNOW WHAT YOU'RE THINKING!

"OH MY GOD, THIS AUTHOR IS ALIVE."

I don't know what's exactly been going on with me mentally, but I'm motivated enough to post SOMETHING for the first time in exactly three months. That's actually crazy. I hope this is a good chapter to come back to. Let me know what you think!

Warnings: abuse, addiction, anxiety, biphobia/homophobia, depression, domestic violence, gun violence, language, panic attacks, sexual harassment/assault/abuse, violence, weapons, and other mature themes

⭒⭒⭒

Zion's POV

I don't know where I am. Everything is white. I feel like I'm enveloped by light... or a feeling. That's impossible.

I feel at peace. I feel light on my feet. I feel happiness. It's a strange feeling, but I welcome it despite my inhibitions. Whatever is here doesn't want to hurt me.

I feel like I'm ready for something. I don't know what, but I'm ready.

"Happy birthday, Star."

My insides crumble at the sound of his voice; I'd almost forgotten the sound of his voice.

"Dad?" I ask in wonder. I turn around and there he is, in this white light with me. I move closer to him, "Wait, am I dead?"

He chuckles, "No. This is just me visiting you in your dream."

"Oh," I look around nervously. I don't want something bad to happen to him.

"It's safe here. Inside your mind," my dad tells me.

"It never is," I shake my head. "You've missed so much..."

"I've seen everything, and I couldn't be more proud."

"You are? But, I've made bad choices-"

"We all do, Zion," he says. "But, you've worked on yourself. I've seen you grow. Away from your mother. Away from Cobra Kai. And into this beautiful young woman."

It dawns on me, "I'm eighteen?"

"Yeah. I knew you could make it here," he offers a hug.

I try not to cry and let out every emotion as he holds me. It feels so real. So real.

"I'm sorry for leaving you with your mom. Had I been stronger-"

"You didn't know," I remind him.

"I did," he frowns and pulls away from the hug. "I had a feeling. I just never knew how to fix it. I wanted my last days to be happy. Selfishly."

"Oh," my heart sinks.

"We all make bad choices," he reminds me. "Do you love me any less?"

"No," I say. "I don't think I could."

"I don't love you any less, either. You're becoming the person I'd hoped you would. You didn't need me like you always swore. And that's okay."

"I miss you," I pull him in for another hug. "Every day."

He holds me tightly, "I'm always with you. Just look at the stars."

⭒⭒⭒

I woke up and went straight to the beach. I make it just before sunrise.

The stars are shining still, very faintly. I think I owe it to him and to myself to connect with him, especially on today of all days.

"Hi, Dad," I whisper. "You were right. I'm okay. I'm actually really excited for this birthday. I thought I'd never feel that way again after you left."

"My mom," I sigh, "is living off of my dad's will and spending it on our trash apartment and her alcohol addiction. She... She kicked me out the other night, and I just didn't know what to do, and so now I'm homeless and broke and all I have is my car, and I feel like my world keeps collapsing more and more since my dad died." 

Eli isn't very good with words, so he comes over to me and gives me a timid side hug to which I immerse him in a big hug. I try to hold in my tears as I let all the pain out into this hug. I didn't realize how much I needed it.

I start to tear up and the stars become undefined orbs of light.

"I feel like... like everything I do is wrong. The rules of life chane constantly, and it's confusing, and I don't know how much longer I can take this feeling. I-I feel useless and weak. Especially since Miguel was the only stable and steady thing in my life... and now he's gone. I really need some guidance."

I take a moment, waiting for a response of some sort. I don't know what it would be, but I need my dad. More than anything.

"I hope you forgive me for never wanting to see Mom again now that I'm a legal adult." I take in a deep breath; I believe he does.

"I take full acountability," Janice says. "I don't want to hurt you; I never did. I was mourning Andrew, and I was scared-"

"Your husband was my dad. You never even let me grieve him! You took all your anger out on me."

"I feel free. I'm making my own path, and it feels right. Everything feels better. Just for a moment."

The sun slowly rises on the horizon and over the water.

"I love you, and I miss you," I say as my voice cracks. "It's not the same without you. I'd never admit it to other people because it sounds so stupid, but I like to think you're with me. And, all I see in the stars is you."

I wipe my eyes on my shirt. I sniffle twice to stop crying.

"I want to make you proud. I want to grow and fix my mistakes. I may not need you like I thought I would, but I do need you. Just the memories, even. So I can remember who I am. So I can make you proud."

It's then that something flashes across the sky: a shooting star.

Relief washes over me as I whisper to the sky, "Thank you."

⭒⭒⭒

I sneak back in before anybody notices I left. That moment can be only between me and my dad forever.

"Happy birthday," Miguel walks by room to see me awake. He rubs his eyes to wake up, "Again."

"Thanks, Miggie," I smile.

"Mom called in iHop for breakfast, so I'm gonna go pick it up," Miguel tells me.

"She did?" I ask in astonishment.

"Yeah," he shrugs, "we do it most birthdays. She must love you or something."

I grin as I grab my keys. The blue butterfly lingers in my grasp; it never goes unnoticed by me. "Can I come with you?"

"Can I drive?" Miguel proposes excitedly.

"I want to survive my birthday," I tease him.

"I'm not that bad!" he calls after me.

"You're pretty bad," I grin.

Maybe it's okay to start a new tradition with my new family. I'll always keep the memory of my dad alive, but I have to move on. 

⭒⭒⭒

Jai waits outside of the bathroom for me as I put finish touches on my makeup. I don't know how, but I feel like I'm a different version of myself. I'm sober, I'm happy, and I'm more me than I've ever been, I think.

I lean closer to the mirror and take deep breaths as I recite the affirmations Jess once sent to me. 

"I am confident. I am powerful. I am strong. I am kind. I am getting better and better every day. All I need is within me right now."

I step back to admire my outfit one last time. I also haven't been this confident in forever. Maybe it's the affirmations, maybe it's the outfit, maybe it's my birthday, but something has changed. I refuse to be terrified in the same way I was before.

I put on lipstick then walk out of the bathroom.

Jai looks at me, "Fuck, I'm good."

⭒⭒⭒

Tory's POV

"So, Silver gave me the approved topics of conversation for the Women of the Valley panel," I say as I click on the email. I read through it earlier and was disappointed. I don't know why I ever expected anything.

"Let's see." I hand Piper my phone. "Is this from his PR manager?"

"Probably," I say glumly as we make our way to a picnic off to the side of the good area.

"This is weirdly written. A list?" Piper wonders.

"Yeah. Basically, I can talk about karate itself, what it meant to win as a queer woman, what it means for the dojo, our relationship even, but I have to stay within the perameters at the bottom there. And, I can't talk in detail about the protest because Silver didn't back it from day one and Zion led it. Which means I can't give credit to her or Jai or Eva or Liv for any of their work with the protest even though they started it all," I ramble. "And since Zion should have probably been the champ and not me."

"You don't know that for sure," Piper reassures me. "And, yeah, it sucks that you can't talk too much about Zion specifically, but you can mention the others. They were our friends, and they're not training at another dojo. They're just other people wanting to make a difference."

"Silver is just so manipulative," I say.

"I hate to say it," Piper hesitates, "but so is Kreese."

I shake my head, "No, Piper. He's helping me. You don't know him like I do."

"If Kreese really wanted what's best for you, he'd let you leave this mess," Piper frowns.

I argue, "I have to stay in this mess regardless. This is my only chance at a scholarship or a job or anything to have a future and to support my family."

"And I get that, babe," Piper sighs, "but there has to be some other way."

"I'm not fortunate like you. Why don't you get that yet?" I wonder. "Sometimes you have to play the good soldier."

Piper and I sit in silence. I can almost taste her disappointment. I'm disappointed in myself, too.

I can't even bring myself to be happy here. I don't know if I can put up this facade for two performances.

"Zion!" a familiar voice shrieks excitedly.

Piper and I turn to the voice. I'm even more upset now that I see Liv hugging Zion. Our whole old group is over there, plus Miguel. Well, our whole group, except for me and Piper.

"I can't do this," I sigh.

"Not to make things worse," Piper pulls out her phone, "but Moon posted Z on her story. It's her birthday."

"Oh."

"Um," Piper hesitates, "let's go get a funnel cake, okay?"

"A funnel cake won't fix any of this," I tell her.

"No, but it'll taste good," she grabs my arm and leans on me slightly.

I sigh, "Okay. Fine."

⭒⭒⭒

Third Person POV

"This Valley Fest gonna be dope for real," Kyler hypes up his friends. "Finally a night about how great our Cobra Kai is. Not that mess of a presentation last year."

"It's good to be on top," Walker says excitedly.

"Yeah, 'cause we know the basketball team wasn't winning with you on it," Edwin remarks.

"What'd you say?" Walker asks defensively.

"Your team sucks, man, take the L," Kyler pats him on the back.

"Zion!" They all hear a shriek. All of them turn toward the voice. Walker tenses, Big Red shifts uncomfortably, and Kyler steps closer to the entrance of Valley Fest to see exactly what's going on.

Edwin speaks up, "Can't believe she showed."

"Whatever. This is our night of glory. That bitch won't fuck it up," Kyler says confidently.

"Bet she's still scared of you," Walker taunts from beside Kyler. "Now she knows what it's like."

"Yeah," Kyler smirks in agreement.

"Maybe," Big Red shrugs. "But, it's our night. Who cares?"

"Yeah. Let's see if we can steal any fried Oreos or some shit," Kyler says as they walk away.

⭒⭒⭒

Zion's POV

"Zion!" Liv shrieks as I walk in with Jai and Miguel.

She quickly gives me a hug, and Eva interrupts, "Let me see the full outfit."

I take a step back to show off the electric blue romper Jai thrift-flipped for her. It looks like a short, strapless dress, but it has built-in shorts and a cinched waist.

"You look SO good!" Liv exclaims. "Babe, it turned out perfect." I blush at their compliments.

"Thanks," Jai says as they wrap their hand around their girlfriend's waist.

"It's quite literally made for you," Eva claps excitedly.

"Thank you," I say gratefully.

"Um, hey," Miguel speaks up awkwardly, "You look awesome. I'm glad you're happy again." 

I nod, "Me too... But...?"

"Buuut I told Sam I'd meet her and-"

"Go," I shoo him away as if I give him my blessing.

"I'll be back," he assures me before rushing off.

"He's sweet," Eva says. 

"Yeah, yeah, whatever. But, seriously," Liv compliments over and over again, "you look so hot. The 'fit, the makeup, the straightened hair, the jewelry?"

"See, I was thinking it's good for the rides and whatever without flashing people, but it's hot so you can feel yourself and show off the body you work so hard for," Jai explains.

"And, you'll draw the attention of a certain someone," Liv teases me. My face heats up at the mention. "Not that that's why you're wearing it. It's just a perk."

"This isn't made for the male gaze," they frown at their partner. "This is made for you."

"How do you feel? That's what matters," Eva interjects.

I nod confidently with a genuine smile, "I feel so... me. I love it so much. Thank you, Jai."

"You're most welcome," they say.

"Where should we start?" Eva asks as she looks at all the rides, games, and food vendors eagerly.

⭒⭒⭒

Third Person POV

"Thank you for helping me set up, Robby, but really you can go enjoy the festival now," Daniel tells the boy.

"It's no big deal. I don't really know what to do if I leave here," Robby says honestly as he stands with Daniel and Amanda at the LaRusso Auto booth.

"Miguel is probably here somewhere," Amanda offers.

"No, he's with Sam," Robby tries to hide his diappointment. "I don't want to be a third wheel. And, everyone else in the dojo I don't know well enough. I'm fine helping here."

"Well, okay," Daniel exchanges a look with Amanda. 

⭒⭒⭒

"Yasmine! Hi," Demetri calls out to his ex-girlfriend as she walks by.

The blonde stops for a second to stare at him and Eli before staying silent and walking away again.

"Wait, hey, hey, hey," Demetri rushes after her.

"Desperate much?" Yasmine remarks.

"Can't we just talk? Please?" Demetri asks.

"There's nothing left to say," she says as she tries to conceal her emotions.

"There's a freaking lot to say," he argues.

"No. I know you still treat Zion like shit-"

"Since when do you care so much about Zion?"

"She's my friend now," Yasmine defends, "so you either take it or leave it. "

"Need I remind you that she assaulted me, threatened me, tried to break my arm, terrorized me, and-"

"Mhm, and she apologized for everything she did in Cobra Kai," the blonde tells him.

"No she didn't. She never apologized to me," the boy exclaims.

"...Really?" Yasmine looks at him skeptically.

"No. Not once. She said she doesn't regret anything."

"Because of what you said."

"Did it justify all of that?!" He wonders. "Does it justify us not being together anymore? Over one person?"

"It's not just one person. You say it to one girl, who knows what you say about the others. How do I know you didn't say those things about me, huh?" Yasmine asks him.

"I would never say anything bad about you. Heck, I don't even know half of what you're mad about."

"I can't give you the answer. You want to be in a relationship with me? Figure it out. It's not that hard, truly," Yasmine sighs before turning away. This time Demetri lets her go.

"Wow," Eli walks over.

"But I haven't said bad things about other girls," Demetri frowns. "Really, it's just Zion. I think I have a place to speak my mind, right?"

"Sometimes I get in my head, too, and I don't realize how far my insults go. But, what you said at that party by the lake was misogynistic. And way too personal. I guess that's what started all of this. Maybe you should apologize."

"Apologize to her?" Demetri scoffs. "Only if she does first."

"Then you can give up any chance of getting back together with Yasmine," Eli points out. Demetri just frowns.

⭒⭒⭒

Zion's POV

I keep my eyes open as we walk around Valley Fest. I don't really see anyone I know until Sam flags us down. My friends and I greet Sam, Miguel, and Eli while Demetri and I glare at each other.

"Happy birthday," Sam says excitedly.

"Thank you," I grin.

"Happy birthday," Eli says with an awkward smile. Last year's vibe was so, so different between us. Still, I'm glad we're okay with each other.

"I'm gonna go buy us some tickets," Demetri tells Eli specifically before walking away without even acknowledging me.

"Asshole," Jai coughs into their arm.

I smile slightly as Liv grabs their hand to signal for them to be quiet. We all just look at each other for a moment.

"Where's Robby?" Eva asks out of the blue. I give her a side-eye.

Miguel shrugs, "He's heading over here from the LaRusso Auto booth. He was helping Mr. LaRusso set up."

"There's a booth?" Jai asks in confusion.

"Everything here has a booth. It's a good chance to advertise," Sam nods. "Which reminds me, Zion, my parents want you to come by their booth when you get the chance."

"Okay?" I look at her in confusion. "Why?"

"You'll see," Sam grins. "It's just a birthday thing."

I feel the anxiety rise within my chest. I hope they didn't do anything big for me or something. I like to feel appreciated, but I don't want anything flashy or expensive.

"It's a good birthday thing," Miguel assures me when he senses my nervousness.

"Hey..." Yasmine walks up to us wearily. "Is Demetri around?"

"No, but-"

"Good," Yasmine interrupts Eli. "Let's keep it that way for now."

"He won't come back if I'm here," I tell her.

"Oh, happy birthday," Yasmine says as she reaches into her purse. I fear it's another gift. "Just a little something."

I reluctantly take the card from her; inside is a gift certificate for a full spa day at some fancy place in Encino. I frown, "Yas..."

"It's not a big deal. My mom blackmailed the GM's wife for whatever we want, so..." Yasmine explains. "Still, it's a great place. Moon absolutely adores it."

Eli turns to her, "So, where is Moon?"

"She'll be here later," Sam interjects quickly.

"She's okay," Yasmine assures us. "She just had to handle something else first."

Liv and I exchange a look wearily; something's weird.

I'm instantly distracted by Robby as he walks over to us. He looks good; he's out of his training clothes for once. I try to glance away when his eyes meet mine and he stops walking. Maybe he doesn't want to see me?

"Hey," Robby says as he joins us. I notice his gaze is still on me. "Happy birthday."

"Thanks," I smile, as if he would forget. He looks at me, and it makes me wish that I'm the only thing he sees. I want him to be the only thing I see, too.

It's then that I notice how his eyes leave my face but not my figure. Just for a second. I try not to do the same. 

"Zion?" Jai's voice snaps me out of the trance or whatever. 

"Hm?" I ask in embarrassment.

"Do you want to go on the Gravitron next?" they ask me. 

Liv hides behind them with a knowing and teasing smile. I make the mistake of glancing back at Robby; he's over by Miguel now and not looking at me.

"Yes," I nod. "Let's do that."

"We'll probably see you later," Liv waves to the others. 

Eva takes my hand and leads me away with Jai and Liv. 

"Girl." Jai looks at me seriously. "You're whipped."

"No," I shake my head. "No, we just..."

"You were talking with your freaking eyes!" Liv whispers as we head towards the Gravitron. "Just get back together with him already."

"It's not that simple," I frown.

"And why not?" Eva wonders.

I feel like I'm being ganged up on. It made sense in my head. "It just isn't."

"Okay, well, you go on the Gravitron and have fun. I think I'm going to sit on the bench. I don't do well with dizzy rides," Liv changes the subject.

"Are you sure that's okay?" I wonder. 

"Of course. Have fun," Liv encourages us.

I think about how nice it is that we're compromising. A lot is different this year, but I'm really happy because I actually feel celebrated. She's not being a prick like Demetri was.

⭒⭒⭒

The Gravitron was a lot of fun. It took my mind off of everything for a minute. All that mattered was how my face felt as I was lifted into the air. I have and always will love thriller rides like that one.

"Liv, you can pick the next one," I tell her as I take a seat on the bench, too.

"Um... Bumper cars maybe?" she asks.

"Yeah," I smile.

Liv leads us through the rides and vendors to the bumper car line. 

I've been looking around for any threats the whole time. I don't want my friends in harm's way just by association. I've seen some of the Cobras already. I know they're here, and I know they're capable of almost anything they want.

I haven't seen Kenny or Shawn, though, which is really good. That might ruin my whole night.

No, it won't. I don't want to give them that pleasure.

"I want the red one," Eva decides as she looks at the cars.

⭒⭒⭒

"Is anyone else hungry?" Liv asks. 

"I could eat," Jai says as we walk away from the bumper cars.

"Maybe we can-"

My train of thought is ruined when I hear familiar voices.

"Ooh! He got you, son!"

"Zion?" Eva wonders at my sudden silence.

My eyes land on Kyler and Walker cornering Anthony by the funhouse. They look ready to strike, like a predator to its prey.

"Hey," Jai turns me to look at them, "you shouldn't have to worry about that tonight. It's your birthday."

"Yeah, but-"

"You really think you're something, hm, princess?" Walker's voice echoes over here.

I look back over and see Sam confronting them. I know Sam can handle them, but it's clear they won't take her seriously. We don't want another brawl; I don't.

Eli, Demetri, Miguel, and Robby walk over now and protect Anthony as Sam exhanges words with the two boys. They still don't look intimidated. All I know is that with these two, I'm not either.

I walk behind the boys as they taunt, "Pretty sure we can take these losers, Kyler."

"What makes you so sure?" I speak up from behind them. I swear Walker flinches.

"Aw shiiit, it's the biggest loser of them all," Kyler grins smugly. The reminder is almost like a punch in the gut.

"Hey, Walker," I turn to the other boy, "how's your shoulder? And your eye. And your head."

Walker shifts uncomfortably at the topic. I feel the mood overall shift; of course, Kyler is oblivious.

"How's your drinking?" Kyler stands up for his friend.

"Really?" I ask, not even surprised someone would use this against me.

"Just leave Anthony alone," Sam tells them.

"Make me, Sam," Kyler smirks smugly.

"I beat you three times in the All Valley," she reminds him.

"Yeah, but now I'm on the A-team," he laughs and holds out his hand for Walker to high-five. The boy does, his eyes not even looking at me. "Wish you still have me?" Kyler gloats.

"I never even wanted you in the first place," Sam says.

"And, you Zion..." Kyler looks at me for a moment before stopping midsentence.

I glance between him and Walker, "I'd choose my next words very carefully."

"We aren't scared of you, okay, runner-up?" Kyler puffs out his chest. "We're the ones on top!"

"You really believe that?" I take a step closer to them.

"Even in the dojo I took you down," Kyler reminds me.

"Once. Take those rules away and see what happens," I threaten.

"We don't have to do this," Robby takes a step forward and tries to ease the tension. "Let's both just go."

My jaw clenches as Kyler smirks at me and Walker gives me a confident smile. I glance toward Robby and then see Miguel agreeing from behind him. I take in a cautious breath.

"Fine," I say as I turn away from them. The rest of Miyagi-Fang follows me, I'm pretty sure.

"The famous Zion Ambrose is a coward. I never thought I'd see the day."

My hand curls into a fist as I try to fight it.

"They're just trying to get a rise out of you," Miguel whispers to me.

Before I know what I'm doing, I walk back over to the pair, "The only cowards here are you because you couldn't take me on your own even if you wanted to."

"I call bullshit," Kyler smirks as he nudges Walker who just nods in agreement.

"We aren't scared of you," Walker tells me as he keeps his stance slightly behind Kyler as if for protection.

I almost laugh at the word that would've pierced me through the heart a few months ago. Not this time.

"You're not?" I challenge as a smirk finds its way to my face.

I turn back to my dojo and see all of them intrigued. Eli just nods since he knows. My eyes land on Miguel and Robby; I have a feeling they want me to back down. I can't, and I won't. I won't show mercy to misogynistic pricks like them again.

My fist swings forward, nearly connecting with Kyler's face. Both Cobras back up in a panic; I stop my first before it gets close enough.

"Then why'd you flinch?" I ask knowingly. 

Their eyes are wide, stunned in silence. I step even closer so they hear me loud and clear.

"Because you know that without rules involved I could beat you just as badly - if not worse - than before."

I look directly at Walker, who has backed away from me.

"So, here's what's going to happen. You're going to leave me and my friends alone. Otherwise, I'm going to be pissed off, and you really don't want to piss me off on my birthday. Got it?"

I feel my fist almost shaking with rage and adrenaline, adrenaline from the fear in their eyes.

Sure enough, Walker grabs Kyler's shoulder like a coward. Kyler steps back with a slight nod before they turn away.

He falls with a thud into an awkward position on his back. Blood is everywhere on his face and his bruises are already coming in. I can't help smiling a little, proud of what I've done.

"Dude, what the fuck was that?!" Jai rushes up behind me excitedly.

I stand a little taller now. I turn to Anthony, "They shouldn't bother you anymore."

"No, seriously, what was that?" Demetri asks with a disapproving tone.

My eyes fall on Robby for a second; he looks confused. I remember that he wasn't there when I first came to West Valley or when everything end down with Walker and Kreese. And, I guess Demetri just needs a reminder.

"That was me defending myself," I say.

"You never stop this, do you? Threatening people, getting off on it?" Demetri scoffs.

I see Eli nudge him, and Demetri presses his lips together.

"What?" Liv asks in disbelief at the audacity.

I argue, "Only because he threatened me first. Do you remember when I first got here? The Halloween dance? Him grabbing me? Not taking 'no' for an answer? And everything Kyler did to you and Eli and Miguel for however long? And to Sam, even?"

"Well, I... He already had you beat him unconscious," Demetri points out.

"But they're still doing that bullshit to Anthony. They bullied you, harrassed me-" 

"Yeah, and what if there's more retaliation on us? That was dramatic, don't you think?"

"There's nothing wrong with being a little dramatic," I defend.

"You're saying you don't agree at all with that?" Eli asks him.

"She just helped all of us," Anthony speaks up for himself.

Demetri is stubborn; we both are. I know he won't back down even if he thinks it's wrong. We both know what they do is wrong, but he'll never agree with me willingly.

My gaze then drifts to Robby in disappointment. I know he was only trying to help by deescalating things, but all I can remember is running into Trey and Cruz in Mexico. I need someone to support me, and I'm finding slowly that I'm okay with supporting myself. 

"I don't agree with how you handled it," Demetri says curtly. "All this is is more crap to get thrown back on you, on us."

"Don't pretend to give a shit about me," I counter. "I've been through it all, okay? But, we have to stand up to them because if we don't then who will?"

I feel the group's dynamic shift as they all look to Demetri for an answer. Is it possible they all agree with me? 

"Whatever. Nobody cares what I think anymore anyway." He walks away and leaves us staring at each other.

"I think you did the right thing. As messed up as it is, Kreese trained us for this," Eli turns to me. 

"Thank you," I say. I don't need his validation, but the reassurance is nice.

"Thank you," Anthony says. 

"I hope it worked," Sam says.

"They seemed pretty scared. I think it'll be okay," Miguel smiles at me as he wraps his arm around Sam. 

I look at Robby; I can't get a good read on what he's thinking. I'd like to think that he agrees with me, but after Mexico I can't be too sure. I know he had no idea about what happened in the dojo with Walker. I wonder if he looks at me differently now. I wonder if it's a bad different.

"Anywaaay," Eva speaks up, "that's enough karate." I smile slightly as I turn back to the others. "There's a petting zoo somewhere around here. Are you interested?"

"Yeah," I nod. I want to remind myself that what I just did was important and deserved.

"See you later," Liv offers to them.

Everyone replies, and Robby actually gives me a small smile as our groups separate. It gives me hope.

⭒⭒⭒

"Oh my God! A llama," Liv rushes over to the tent full of animals.

"So, what time is the panel?" Jai asks me and Eva.

"Later. I think around eight?" I suggest.

"Oh, so it's in the dark?"

"I guess," I nod, trying not to let on how nervous I am for it all.

"Yeah, it's at 8:15," Eva says as she checks her Google calendar; of course it's scheduled to the minute.

"And, um, do we know when Cobra Kai is presenting?"

"No," Eva says. 

"No idea," I say as I step into the zoo.

"Babe! Come look at the baby pig!" Liv shrieks in excitement.

I walk on the other side, and the first pen has a cow inside. I smile as I approach her.

The cow gently presses her head against the wire fence to get to me. I reach my hand through to pet her head; she's so gentle.

"You can feed her," Eva says from a little further down. "I'll just buy a ton for us." She dispenses it all into her hand and then holds it out for me.

"Okay," I reach for some as the cow eats it out of my hand eagerly. I pet the top of her head and her eyes close slightly.

I turn back to look for Liv and Jai, but they're in an entirely different area. 

I walk by a giraffe, a few goats, and a horse. It's extra to feed the giraffe a carrot, so we skip that one. Eva follows me into the indoor part with A/C. 

That's when my eyes land on a snake within a case. It's thick and probably poisonous.

I reach past Robby and the snake and open the burlap sack. He places it in there and it takes every instinct inside of me to not freak out at the venemous snake so close to us.

"Are you insane?!" I whisper to him as he takes the bag from me and wraps his arm around my waist to usher me out of the zoo.

"Is the snake that interesting?" Eva walks up behind me.

I realize that I spaced out for a minute. "Just reminds me of something."

"Should I assume from the smile on your face that it's not related to the snake dojo?" Eva wonders.

I try to walk past her to hide my blush, "Yeah. Something like that."

I know I'm acting weird. I just feel so out of my comfort zone today and in a good way. And, I deserve to be happy. I just can't help remembering the good. I want the good. I want to be okay.

But, if Robby is my good, why did he leave? Why did I let him? Why can I not let him back in?

Liv walks over to me with a look of concern on her face, "Um, maybe don't go back out for a minute."

"Why?" I ask nervously.

"Shawn and Kenny are walking around," Liv admits quietly.

I nod as I feel the bubbling, hot feeling in my chest. It's almost painful to think about facing Shawn. I haven't seen him since that night that he fully overpowered me and made me feel worthless. Every power I thought I had in karate was overtaken that night by him and the gang that jumped me.

"I don't want to hide," I admit, "but I'm not sure I'm ready to face him."

"Then, don't. It's okay," Jai supports me. "I'm new, so maybe they don't know me. I can step out and let you know when they're gone."

"I don't want you to put yourself at risk for me," I tell them.

"That's what friends are for," Liv grabs their hand and walks with them to the entrance of the petting zoo.

Eva stands with me as I turn to the pigs. She lets me process everything in silence.

I whisper to myself, "Three. Six. Nine. Twelve. Fifteen. Eighteen..."

The world becomes blurry as they attack me one after the other from all sides. "No mercy," Shawn's voice rings in my ears.

"I'm safe. I'm strong. I'm okay," I say softly, almost to the pigs. 

"They're gone," Liv announces from behind me. "Oh, Zion, are you okay?"

I sit on the ground and take in a deep breath to collect myself. I didn't even notice until now that my eyes have started to water. I nod as I prepare to stand back up.

"She just needed a minute," Eva speaks up for me.

I turn back to them, "Thank you."

"Remember you have people who care about you," Jai assures me.

I let out a deep breath of relief. 

"Food?" Liv changes the subject.

"Please," I nod.

Eva grabs my hand and we walk out of the petting zoo as one big group holding hands like in a cheesy movie. I smile happily; I'm not alone.

⭒⭒⭒

Once we're done eating, we decide to walk by the different booths. Aisha met up with us finally, too. I'm still slightly anxious what surprise the LaRussos have for me. They already gave me so much; they helped save me.

"There you are," Miguel rushes over to join us. "Are you having a good birthday?"

"Yeah. It's one of the best," I admit as I keep my moment of anxiety in the back of my mind. 

"We went to the petting zoo and got dinner and funnel cake," Liv fills him in.

"Eli, Robby, and I actually hung out and won some prizes. We put them in Eli's car," Miguel says.

"You, Robby, and Eli were hanging out? Together?" Aisha speaks up.

"Yeah, turns out they don't hate each other since Zion's not really in the equation anymore," Miguel teases.

"That's great," I say half-heartedly. I want them to get along; I'm happy they are. I just wonder if my feelings for Robby would complicate all of that again, even though Eli and I are actually in a good, platonic place for once. I don't want to mess more things up.

"And Demetri?" Eva asks curiously.

Miguel sighs, "Yeah, he's hanging out with some of the other guys. He's still mad at us about earlier. He just doesn't get that it's important to take a stand, even after everything."

I feel a sense of anger bubbling inside of me, so I change the subject, "Where's Sam?"

"Bathroom," he says.

"Not anymore," Sam comes up behind him.

He spins her around to be close to him with a smile. I try not to dwell on their relationship, too. I've been around Jai and Liv being cutesy all day; thank God for Eva.

"Have you seen my parents yet?" Sam asks out of curiousity.

"No, we-"

"And now, a presentation from the baddest dojo in the Valley here at Valley Fest: Cobra Kai!"

My heart drops as some of the lights set up around the booths dim and the main stage ligths up. "Shoot to Thrill" by AC/DC blasts through the speakers as some of the Cobras appear onstage. I'm nauseous at the sight.

Automatically, some woman is onstage yelling out commands for them to follow. It's a bunch of people I don't recognize; they must be the "B-team." It's then that I note Walker is up there. Of course he's on the "B-team."

My heart pounds in my head as the music blasts and the "A team" emerges from the back to the front, ready to strike. They're in expensive gis, and that's when the panic sets in.

Tory, Piper, Devon, Kyler, Shawn, Kenny.

It's a more insane version of Cobra Kai's presentation last year. Of course Edwin, Dieter, and Big Red are more advanced now. We all are, but they're the ones who get to show off. 

I hate the stupid bet we made. Miyagi-Fang is ready to fight now, but at the cost of time and training. And money. We don't look nearly as professional.

Tory takes centerstage as she demonstrates her use of a sword. Of course she's really good. 

The music swells as Shawn enters. 

Someone grabs my hair and pulls me back. I screech as I give into their grip. It shows how truly week I've become. They don't let off, and I look up to see Shawn. He drops my hair, though my scalp still burns. Then, he grabs my shoulders and shoves me back over to the awaiting Cobras.

He easily towers over everyone else. He displays his strength by "taking down" a bunch of his teammates, including Kyler. 

"You okay?" Robby steps beside me with a softness in his voice. 

"Yeah," I lie as I glance at him for a second before turning back to the stage.

Then, the music vamps and the lights dim into a spotlight. I see the figure walk down the stage with a microphone in hand. I'm overwhelmed with so many feelings; I stand still as I try to not let it impact me. I'm also aware of how close Robby is. It's too much. 

"Thank you, thank you," Silver holds out his hands graciously. "I'm Terry Silver, founder and owner of the Cobra Kai dojo franchise that started here, in The Valley. Just a couple of months ago we won the All Valley Under-18 Karate Tournament with the first ever female champion, Miss Tory Nichols!"

The crowd cheers so loud that it rivals the music. Tory steps forward to stand among a line of those in gis who must be senseis. It hurts to see her so firmly set in that dojo. If only she knew. If only she would talk to me. 

It's then that Miguel moves to the other side of me as if to tell me that he's here for me. It provides reassurance as their presentation continues.

"This young woman has worked her way up to become the best in The Valley, and you can, too. Behind me is a QR code," he points to the projection screen, "where you can enroll in beginner, intermedate, and advanced classes. Become a champion. Learn discipline. Strike first, strike hard, and show no mercy."

My heart drops as I watch everyone take what he says to heart, eating up his bullshit.

"We offer classes for all ages. We are a safe space to learn new things and find new heights."

I collapse on the ground and curl into the fetal position. I'm shaking with fear and gasping for air, and that's all my body can do. I'm so dizzy, and my head hurts like hell. I feel like I'm dying.

"Challenging me, challenging the All Valley board, challenging what I'm teaching my students?" Silver laughs maniacally.

The music rings in my ears now as I find myself slowly consumed by panic. If only they knew. If only I could tell. 

"Z?" Aisha places her hand on my shoulder.

I jump at the unexpected contact. The people around me look at me in confusion, and those who know me look in worry.

"Join the number one dojo in The Valley. We'd be honored to have you."

The song becomes louder and louder as the students take centerstage again and come out into the crowd with Cobra Kai fliers, water bottles, t-shirts, jackets, and more.

When it becomes too much I push my way through the crowd to find some solace. My face is hot and my hands are shaking. 

"Zion," Miguel follows me.

"No, please, don't," I tell him as I try to catch my breath by the bathrooms.

Miguel pulls me in for a hug that I don't even reject. I hold him close as I try not to cry again. 

"I should've won the tournament," I tell him. "None of this would have happened if I hadn't been so brainwashed. I hate them. I hate him. I hate him so fucking much."

Miguel nods. "I know, but he won't get near you again."

"But what about the others?" I pull away. "They're all falling for it."

"It's not our job to save everyone."

I try to hold in any sobs; it's bad enough that I'm crying on my birthday from a panic attack. 

"You've come so far," Miguel reminds me. "We'll take down Cobra Kai eventually. Together."

I try to match my breathing with his. I slowly step away from him to collect myself.

I feel every part of me relax slightly as I look up at the sky as the stars start to come out. I know that I'm strong enough to face all of this. I'm strong like my dad.

"Better?" Miguel asks me after a moment.

I nod. "I'm sorry." I wipe my eyes. Then, "How does my makeup look?"

"The same?" he shrugs obliviously.

"What's wrong?" Aisha joins us as she looks at me worriedly.

"I'm okay now," I assure her and try to be as convincing as possible. Miguel gets on his phone as I step closer to her, "Is my makeup okay?"

"Yeah, whatever setting spray you used is doing it's job," she assures me. "Still sparkly and pretty."

"Thanks," I sigh in relief as if this is the most important thing.

I can't help glancing back at the stage where the Cobras do their bows or whatever while everyone cheers.

"Don't worry about them," Aisha tells me. "You have your own panel later, remember?" I nod. "You're gonna be great. Fuck those snakes, okay?"

Miguel wanders back to us with a proud smile, "Your present is here."

"Now?" I ask in confusion.

"Now!" a voice behind me confirms excitedly.

I spin around. "Jess?!"

⭒⭒⭒

A/N: I love all of you for reading and supporting this book and me. Thank you for sticking around through the hiatus I took <3