In The Midst of The Crowd

Chapter 14: Her Words of Affirmation

Jhoanna's POV

"Hey." Colet greeted then kissed my forehead. She put down the paper bag on the table in front of us.

We are inside the venue, a few hours before our first-ever competition for this academic year.

"Hi." I said softly, letting out a weak smile.

"What's the matter? You nervous?" Worry is evident on her face.

"Yes, love. I'm scared I'm going to mess things up." I admitted. I've been having these thoughts for awhile, we promised to not keep secrets from each other but she has a lot on her plate already. And now, I know I badly want to talk about this with her.

"No you won't. This is just like the previous years, but now we have to be better than our best. You have me and the rest of the group with you. We will all fight for this." She cupped my cheek while brushing her thumb on it softly. A gesture that never fails to calm me.

"I badly want to win this year. For the whole community, the group and especially for you. I want you to end your dancing and singing career the way you deserve it." I told her honestly.

"Trust me, love, I've already won in life. I have you." She kissed the back of my hand after saying that.

I leaned in for a hug, "If only people know you are this corny." I laughed lightly. 

"We got this, leader! You are our master after all." Colet said with a sincere smile.

I am faced by a pouting Colet when I pulled away from our hug. I checked if any of our groupmates are looking, when I made sure they aren't, I gave her a peck on the lips.

"We all saw that!" Everyone in the room shouted.

Colet is grinning and I cannot stop myself from giggling. Both of us are red as a tomato. I'll be fine.