C5 CHAPTER 5: GAME DAY

Days passed by, and the scenario of my life remained the same: going to school, coming home, eating, and sleeping. It felt like a never-ending loop. Every day, I followed the routine of going to school, coming back home, having meals, and going to bed, only to repeat it all over again the next day.

At times, I couldn't help but feel stuck in this monotonous cycle. It seemed as though there were no exciting moments or adventures to break the pattern. I longed for something different, something new and thrilling.

However, amidst the repetitiveness, I started to find comfort in the familiar routine. The predictability provided stability and a sense of security. I appreciated the small moments of peace and solace in the midst of my busy days.

When Saturday arrived, the big day was here. I made sure to arrive early at the basketball court. Nauna na si Kuya sa basketball court dahil kailangan daw nila ulit mag practice. Kaya ako nalang mag-isa na pumunta sa court. The basketball court was situated in our school, but it was on the other side, as the 4th-year college students had their own designated area and we, as 2nd-year college students, had ours.

I was wearing a casual yet comfortable outfit: a plain white shirt paired with light blue denim jeans and white sneakers. Over my shirt, I had a light jacket in case the weather turned chilly. My hair was tied back in a ponytail, and I wore minimal accessories: a simple necklace and a wristwatch. I wanted to keep my look practical and fuss-free since I knew I would be cheering and moving around a lot during the basketball game.

As I arrived at the basketball court, I noticed that Kuya was already there, busy with their practice. I made sure to find a good spot to watch the game and cheer him on. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as the players warmed up and prepared for the match. The basketball court was buzzing with fans, and the school spirit was palpable.

Since our school hosted the event, many students and spectators from different batches gathered to support their respective teams. It felt like a mini-sports festival, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation for the game.

Naalala ko no’ng Biyernes. Alhena, Maegan, and I made plans to meet up before the game, and we even created some catchy slogans and cheers to pump up the team. We wanted to make sure Kuya and Orion knew they had a strong support system on and off the court.

As I looked around, I saw Alhena and Maegan in the crowd, waving at me and giving me encouraging smiles. It was nice to know that they were there to support Kuya and Orion as well. We were all united in cheering for our friends, creating a sense of camaraderie that extended beyond our own individual circles. I quickly made my way to where Alhena and Maegan were standing, holding the posters that the three of us had worked on to support Kuya and Orion's team. As I approached them, I could see the excitement in their eyes, and we exchanged enthusiastic greetings.

"Hey, Luna! Look at these posters we made!" Alhena exclaimed, holding up one of the colorful banners adorned with Kuya and Orion's photos.

"They turned out great, didn't they?" Maegan added, proudly displaying another poster with motivational slogans.

I grinned, feeling a sense of pride in our efforts. "You both did an amazing job! I'm sure Kuya and Orion will be thrilled to see them."

"Oo, true talaga," sagot ni Alhena na may ngiti. "Iniisip namin na makakatulong 'to para lalo silang ma-boost at ma-inspire sa laro."

"Tama, mas maganda rin 'yong may cheering squad," dagdag ni Maegan. "Excited na kaming makita kung paano maglalaro sina Kuya Arche at Orion!"

As the crowd of supporters gathered around us, I noticed how our posters stood out, catching the attention of the other students. It was heartwarming to see everyone coming together to cheer for our school's basketball team.

We waited for the game to start, more and more students and supporters gathered around the basketball court. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and energy, and I could feel the excitement building up inside me. It was heartwarming to see how many people came to cheer for our school's team.

Nang dumating na ang mga players, agad naman akong naghanap kay Kuya at kay Orion. Nandoon sila, handa na para sa laban, at nakita kong nakangiti sila nang makita ang mga posters na inihanda ni Alhena at Maegan.

I also, spotted Orion on the court, my heart skipped a beat. When he noticed the poster, I was holding, a genuine smile spread across his face. It was heartwarming to see his reaction, and it made all the effort we put into making the posters worthwhile. His eyes lit up, and he looked genuinely happy and touched by the gesture. It made me feel glad that our little effort of making posters had brought joy to him and the team.

Throughout the game, we cheered for every player, but we made sure to show some extra love for Kuya and Orion. They played their hearts out, impressing everyone with their skills and teamwork. As the game went on, the score was neck and neck, adding to the intensity of the match.

When Kuya and Orion stepped onto the court, we cheered the loudest, waving our posters and pom-poms. The atmosphere was electric, and I could see Kuya and Orion looking our way, their faces lighting up with appreciation.

ORION’S POV

As I prepared for our basketball match, I spotted my sister Alhena in the crowd. She was standing with her friends, and I couldn't help but smile at the sight of her. It always warmed my heart to know that she was there to support me. But I noticed that Luna, was missing. Curious about her absence, I approached them and couldn't help but ask, "Hey, where's Luna?"

Alhena and Maegan grinned mischievously and teased, "Oh, she's on her way. She said she might be a little late, but she's coming, don't worry."

Maegan chimed in, "So, why are you so eager to see Luna? Is she your secret good luck charm or something?"

I laughed, shaking my head at their playful banter. "H-a? h-hindi, akala ko lang hindi siya pupunta. Kasi diba para suportahan kapatid niyang si Arche?”

"Don't be ridiculous," I replied, trying to hide the hint of a smile forming on my lips." Dagdag ko.

Alhena and Maegan continued to playfully tease me as we headed to the basketball court. I couldn't help but feel excited and nervous at the same time.

After a few moments, I finally spotted Luna, Alhena, and Maegan at the upper level of the basketball court. Luna was standing tall, holding the banner she had crafted earlier. Seeing her with the banner brought an instant smile to my face.