[Center][h3][Color=Teal]Valerie Stephanie Johnson[/Color][/h3]
[img]https://static.toiimg.com/photo/msid-83362447/83362447.jpg?326976[/img][/Center]

[Center][b]Nicknames:[/b] Val, Vallie

[b]Age:[/b] 27

[b]Personality:[/b] Valerie can be rather stubborn and at times opionated. But really has a heart of gold and has always been loyal to her group of friends. Val is a little insecure when it comes to relationships; making her scared of committing to her best-friend in case that friendship got ruined.

[b]Bio:[/b] Valerie is the only child in her family. Not that she needed siblings growing up, she had a close group of friends most of whom she considered to be like brothers and sisters. Apart from one, she had a deeper connection with Ray that went deeper beyond a friendship. Ever since she could remember, the two did everything together. Barely anyone would see one without the other. Val eventually developed deeper feelings for Ray, but kept it to herself as she didn't want to risk somehow ruining their friendship. One thing led to another, and they gave into the mutual attraction and sexual tension one night, after graduation. Due to her insecurities, she was the first one to leave after their 'special night' together at the lake house after graduation. Valerie was broken when Ray left the city altogether, disappearing from everyone's lives. Taking the blame for chasing him away, but also regretting not fixing things before he had left. It's probably her biggest regret, not giving them a chance as a couple.

Val has remained friends with the rest of the group. Probably remaining closer to the boys than Ryleigh, as the girls had a shaky relationship after Raymond had left Rhodes. Leigh's resentment over the situation, made Val feel more guilty. Struggling to maintain a healthy friendship with Leigh, even if the girls have been trying to make up and save what's left of their friendship. Whilst she was always afraid to ask about Raymond, she has heard a few updates about him from Jimmy. Glad, that he is living out his dreams as an actor. Val is one of the few people that knew he would make it far in life; and it seems like he has.

Over the years, Val has attempted to move on. But something has always been holding her back from letting herself be happy and be in a proper long term relationship. 3 years ago, she had met the handsome police officer Leo Dominguez. Slowly falling for his charms and cute smile. Val has been enjoying his company and listening to his music; having heard a few of his numbers that he had composed himself in hopes of getting noticed out there as a musician. Valerie is devastated by Austin's death. He had been like a big brother to her, and always seemingly like the 'glue' that held the group together. Like everyone else, she feels the 'absence' of Austin and wonders what will become of the group, now that he is no longer there.

[b]Current Situation:[/b] She works as a Museum tour guide. After Austin's death, she's unsure about going back to the lake house; as it holds so many memories. Not sure if she's ready to open up the old can of worms, if she goes back. [/Center]