Bini: In Parallel Universe

XXXVII: Rivals

Jhoanna's POV

The crowd went wild when I entered the court. They have been rooting for me since the opening the other day. Who wouldn't? I beat the top player of the National Team last year and all of them are expecting me to get the gold for the second time. I am Jhoanna Christine Robles, the representative of our Region in badminton for Palarong Pambansa. I will be competing with my rival and graduating player, Mariah Queen Arceta in the singles event. 

"Ready to get the gold, Robles? We've been preparing for this since last year. Kaya mo 'yan." my coach asked me while putting a tape in my shoulder. 

"Of course, coach. The pressure's on me, my parent's enrolled me to a prestigious badminton academy." I shook my head as I am looking around the venue. 

All the badminton enthusiast are here. From different regions and some famous personalities. Nakita ko rin 'yong mga coaches from different big universities who are scouting players for UAAP. As a competitive athlete, I can't just give this game away. This is important to me. I want to play for UP and that's final.

"Don't worry, I read Aiah's game play. You're far better than her." he said, assuring me to lessen up the pressure that I am feeling right now. 

Nagpaalam ako kay coach because the match control already announced that we will start after 30 minutes. Naghanap ako ng wide space for me to warm up. 

While looking for a spot to warm up, some players were asking if they could get a selfie with me. After that, ipinagpatuloy ko na ang paghahanap. May nakita naman ako kaya lang, my rival was there too. Nakayuko lang siya na parang nag-iisip so I decided to approach her. 

"Hi." I greeted, she looked up and smiled at me nervously. "Good luck, Aiah. Let's give them a good game." I told her. 

She smiled at me angelically. Oh god, alam na alam mo talaga kahinaan ko. "Yes. Good luck, Robles." 

"So, warm up tayo?" yes, I am competitive but I also know the word 'sportmanship'. I know she's my rival and I know this game would change our lives pero basta, 'yon na 'yon. 

"You're not as snob as I thought. Mabait ka rin naman pala." she laughs. "Pero kinakabahan pa rin ako eh."