Tall trees lined the pathways, thick leaves swayed with the gentle breeze, and long branches created shadows, blocking the sun's sweltering rays.
Panting heavily, calf muscles constricted tightly in exhaustion, toes and heels screamed in agony, but she didn't care as she pushed through, running as far as her feet would take her.
"Hey, Sophia, wait up." Her friend, who had agreed to meet up with her at their usual spot, shouted behind her. "Is someone after your ass?" But for someone who was about to pass out, her friend still had the energy to jest around.
When she stopped and turned, she found her friend leaning against the shaded tree, holding her chest, and her breath caught in her lungs.
"More inhaling, Ashley. Less talking." She grabbed her water bottle, which was strapped around her waist, and drank a couple of gulps before handing it to her friend.
