Clouded Hearts

20: Flashes

Astraea

"Thank you for guiding me throughout the game."

"What are you talking about?" she asked, her eyes narrowing in curiosity. She pointed at my headband, which I’d forgotten I was wearing.

I took it off and stared at it. I hadn’t even noticed earlier, but there were words glowing softly on it.

You can slay this game!

A smile crept onto my face as I read the message.

"Oh...I never knew that there was a words in it. Ice said that I should wear it—to support you." I smiled but her eyes are still on the headband.

As I turned it in my hands, another message lit up.

Take every chances you see. Take a risk or lose the chance.

"I did take a risk. I also expect the ball to land outside but when I saw how the ball starting to fall inside, I rush towards it and saved it." She smiled

I chuckled at her earnestness. "So... this headband was your inspiration?"

She laughed lightly and glanced away. "Not exactly. It’s more about the person wearing it."

I blinked, caught off guard. "Pardon?"

"My inspiration was the nursing department... everyone who cheered for us. It’s our victory." Her words were casual, but something about the way she avoided my eyes made me wonder.

"I’m so proud of you," I said sincerely, stepping forward and wrapping her in a hug.

"You’re really fond of hugging me, aren’t you?" she teased, though she didn’t pull away.

"You’re soft. I like it," I replied with a grin, pulling back just enough to slip the headband onto her head.

"Exchange," I said with a smirk.

She adjusted it and smiled. "It looks good on you, but I’ll take it."

She glanced around. "I need to shower real quick. Will you wait for me?"

"Here?" I asked, looking at the bustling surroundings.

"No, by the locker room." She hooked her arm through mine.

"Of course. I’ll wait for you," I assured her, giving her a wide smile.

"That smile suits you," she said softly, studying me with warm eyes.

"My parents say the same thing," I replied, shrugging. But her expression changed, a flicker of worry crossing her face.

"Don’t worry. I don’t hate them."

She nodded, looking a little reassured. "Okay. My teammates are already gone. Wait for me here; I promise I’ll be quick."

I nodded, watching as she walked away. I pulled out my phone to pass the time, her words and smile replaying in my mind.

Gael has no message, it's strange. Tawagan ko ba? Nahh baka nagsasaya kasama basketball team niya.

Nakaanother jersey na siya paglabas niya. Suot na rin niya ang headband kaya nacutan ako.

"Wait there. Pose for the camera." She did a peace sign then smiled.

"Tingin!" Agad kong nilayo ang cellphone sa kanya.

"Nope!" Nauna na akong lumabas ng locker room.

"Tingin lang eh." I shook my head.

"For my eyes only."