Game Plan (COMPLETE)

14

Around two in the afternoon, we left the restaurant. I was honestly craving for my bed—not because I was tired, but because I just wanted the day to be over.

I thanked everyone for coming to the graduation. I really am grateful that I have them as my support today.

Then, I looked at Ven. I tried to keep my voice light when I said, "The usual."

He nodded. "The usual."

I thought that was it, but he took a small step closer when he saw Dad was busy with the motorcycle.

He leaned down slightly, whispering: "I'm proud of you. Congratulations ulit."

Our eyes met... and for a second—it felt light.

It almost felt right.

I gave him a half-smile, holding back the full one that desperately wanted to escape.

"Si Coach," Max whispered behind us, warning that Dad was looking already.

I wanted to wrap my arms around him, but the feeling of my father's stare as well as the heaviness that I tried so hard to drown prohibited me. I stepped back quickly, mouthing, "Thank you," before turning towards Dad.

When I got home, I sent him a message without expecting a quick reply. Nitong mga nakaraang araw kasi ay napapansin ko na hindi kasing bilis ang mga response niya.

arviste
Just got home :)

To my surprise, he answered after a few seconds.

ferrera08
Still driving :)
Stoplight, so don't worry
I'll call you later

arviste
Call? Bakit?

ferrera08
Secret :p

He left me on read. I was about to feel bad about it but my phone started to ring. I immediately silenced it kasi baka marinig ni dad.

Damn, para naman akong nagtatago ng kabit.

Then, I answered it. "Hi." It was only a voice call so I stayed in my position, lying on my bed.

"Hi, Arrie."

"Ano 'yung gusto mong itanong?"

"There are actually two questions."

"Hmm?" 

"First, would it be good with Coach if I, uh..."

"If you what?" I was impatient.

"If I pick you up later? Pero kasama naman natin si Yago. He's the quietest and least annoying one."

"Wait, wait. Why?" Lumipad ang kamay ko sa sentido ko at minasahe ito. I feel like this day has really stressed me... actually, hindi lang today. Pati noong mga nakaraang araw.

"I told you, I have a graduation gift for you. Hindi ko naibigay kanina because... si Coach, eh."

I chuckled lightly, not really having the energy to laugh. "Eh bakit kasama si Yago?"

"So you could have an excuse. You can tell Coach that you would be going with me and Yago. You don't have to lie."

I pursed my lips and thought about it. Pagod na ako ngayong araw, sa totoo lang. Pero... si Ven 'to eh. At sabi naman siya ay may regalo siya sa akin.

Maybe to make up for being late to my graduation.

"Okay. What time?"

"Ten PM?"