Chapter Eleven
Valentina
New York City is dark and dreary as I join Ryder on the elevator to meet Max.
“You have your passport? Don’t lose it. Stay near your dad and always be aware of your surroundings.”
He puts his arm around me. “I’m gonna be fine.”
Isn’t that what every fifteen-year-old would say? They all seem to think they’re invincible.
“Keep your phone charged so I can call, and no matter the time difference, call me if you need me or if you just want to talk. I put a battery pack in your backpack just in case.”
He laughs and turns me toward him, placing his hands on my shoulders. I stare up at him and try to remember exactly when the little boy who called me Mama left. “Stop watching the news.”
This time I laugh. “You should try watching the news and not ESPN all the time.
