"Hey Jesse, it's almost time to hit the track," Samantha called out to her friend, approaching from behind. "Hey girl, what's going on? You look like you're in La-La Land. Earth to Jesse."

"Yeah, sorry. It's just Damion isn't here yet, and he's always here by now to give me his famous pep talk," Jesse explained, her worry evident in her voice.

"Maybe his football practice is running late tonight," Samantha suggested, knowing full well that practice was over. Several girls' boyfriends were already present, indicating that the boys had gone home and cleaned up.

"Nice try, Sam, but Tiffany's boyfriend is already here," Jesse replied, her concern growing.

"Well, J, you said that his mom has been a bit difficult lately. Maybe she wouldn't let him leave after he got home from practice," Samantha offered, hoping to ease Jesse's mind and refocus her on the upcoming race.

"Yeah, you're right," Jesse conceded, taking a deep breath and heading out to the track.

"Okay, girls, let's get into your positions. We're about to start," Coach Lindsay instructed. Jesse prepared to race her opponent, but something felt off. She couldn't quite put her finger on it, so she pushed the feeling aside and took off. However, this time, something tugged at her heart, and she collapsed just five feet away.

"Shit! Jesse, are you okay?" Samantha rushed over with the coaches; concern etched on her face.