Game Plan (COMPLETE)

12

Days went by quickly, and both of us adjusted to our new set up. I could constantly feel that we were still trying to grasp and match each other's pace.

There are times that Ven seems to forget to message me... and I think it's okay. I mean, he's not doing it intentionally. And I don't want to sound needy so I don't try to confront him about it.

It's not a big deal.

We mostly communicate through messages now, lalo na't puro graduation practice na lang ang ginagawa ko. Dad doesn't even let me train anymore because aside from not making it on time, he's scared I might get injured—the typical superstition. He barely lets me go out, too.

Pero minsan, napunta pa rin ako sa UP para dalawin sila. Just like today, I went here straight from graduation practice. I could see that they were huddling while cooling down.

Graduation is nearing and I am honestly excited to receive all of my awards. I did great during grade eleven, but I'm sure I did better in grade twelve. I didn't just focus on representing the school in football tournaments; I also dedicated time to participating in academic contests and demonstrating leadership.

And the results for UPCAT will be released within the day.

So, really, I am excited.

"Hi," I greeted Ven who was nearing me. Uupo dapat siya sa tabi ko pero pinigilan niya ang sarili niya at tumayo na lamang siya. With that action, my brows automatically furrowed. "What? Why?"

"I'm sweaty pa," he explained while twisting the lid of his flask. I watched him as he took big gulps of water. After that, he started removing the tape off his wrist. Then, he switched from cleats to his usual red crocs.

Napansin niya na nakatitig lang ako and instinctively raised a brow.

I diverted my gaze. Kulang nalang ay pati langgam ay pagmasdan ko na rin.

I looked at him once again. Kahit naman pawisan siya ay hindi siya nagmukhang dugyot. Madaya.

"You seem happy. Any news?"

My lips brought up a smile. "Graduation," I didn't tell him of the UPCAT results—I don't even remember telling him that I took it. I really didn't want to jinx it.

If I get accepted into UP, I could ease the financial burden on Dad that usually comes with college tuition. Kung may kailangang gastusan, iyon na lang siguro ay para sa other fees at sa daily living namin.

I tried to not look at Ven. Actually, this is one thing that I don't like about him. As far as I know, they're privileged enough and can afford to study somewhere that is not a state university.

I get it: he's smart, hardworking, and also an athlete. However, does it have to be in UP? Where education is made to be free and can greatly benefit those who are not as financially stable?

We talked for a bit while most of them were tidying up and collecting the equipment. It gave me a better mood because I got to talk to him outside of our chats.

Pero kinailangan na namin umuwi ni dad. Sakto lang din kasi pagod na rin naman ako at mula umaga ang practice namin para sa graduation.

I opened my laptop as soon as I got inside my room. Nagluluto si Dad sa baba at tumakas lang ako para tignan ang result ng UPCAT. When I found it, I clicked the link to the official site. Nervousness was being scattered through different parts of my body, and my shaking hands were the perfect evidence of my uneasiness.

Then it finally loaded.

I was anticipating a big 'Congratulations!' in the color green... but there was none.