The Golden Ruins (High School Series #2)

Chapter 30

"Sorry, manager. Hindi ko alam kung makakapunta kami. Hindi pa magaling 'yong kamay ni Skye, e."

I couldn't hide my disappointment, my frown giving me away as I looked at Zhef. His uncertainty mirrored my concerns. It had been a few months since Nationals when Skye's finger got seriously injured, forcing him out for the rest of the match.

I watched the team fall apart after that, and Skye's injury was a significant blow to our chances. The healing process seemed long, and I worried about how it would affect our preparation for reclaiming the championship this year.

I knew how passionate Skye was about the sport, and it would be heartbreaking if he couldn't continue due to physical limitations.

"Okay, but... if you can..." I handed him a card with all the details of our summer training event, hoping to spark some hope. It listed the date and location, everything they'd need to join us. "Please come."

"Pinag-iisipan nga namin..." I was about to head out of his house gate when I heard his voice again. "Na baka mas mabuti na lang kung tumigil na kaming mag-volleyball. Hindi na magalaw ni Skye 'yong daliri niya. Mukhang pabigat lang din ako sa team, e."

I felt something crack inside me. The camaraderie and loyalty holding Baviera together were shattering... and it was all because of one night. Zhef and Skye were crucial to our team. They weren't just our essential blockers; they brought life to our practices and games with their playful competition and banter. I couldn't imagine anyone replacing them.

I hoped desperately that we wouldn't have to.

"Have you checked up on the others?"

I stood on the sidelines, glancing over Cal as he trained.

He focused intently, his gaze fixed on the tape I'd marked on a specific spot on the court floor. With a powerful swing, he struck the ball, sending it straight to the target with a satisfying thud.

He wiped sweat from his brow with the back of his hand. "Nasa probinsya si Kleo at sa susunod na buwan pa babalik," he said, pausing for a moment to catch his breath. "Si Chi-chi naman... ayaw daw sumama. Kailangan niya pa raw tumulong sa trabaho ng lola niya."

Silence enveloped us as the revelations came crashing down on us, shattering our dreams. I watched as the light seemed to dim in Cal's eyes. He dribbled the ball more slowly, his movements losing their usual sharpness.

He paused, then shifted his gaze, trying to mask his disappointment. "Kumusta 'yong tryouts?"

Coach and I had organized the tryouts to find new members after Gio and Van had left. For three intense days, we evaluated each recruit meticulously.

I noted every player's agility, technique, and teamwork skills, keenly observing how they interacted with others on the court. We were searching for two new hitters who not only had the necessary skills but also blended well with our team's dynamics.

The right chemistry was just as important as technical ability.

"We've had a few promising candidates," I said, trying to inject some optimism into the conversation. "Two players have caught our eye."

Cal's interest was piqued despite his earlier mood. "Sino sila?"

Eventually, the most anticipated day came. Today marked the start of our summer training that Kael had graciously offered. It was a massive opportunity for us to rise and rebuild the team, a chance to mend what had been broken since the Nationals.

As the early morning light began to creep over the horizon, my eyes brightened at the sight of the bus waiting for us in the parking lot. I tugged Cal along, earning a groan of protest. The dawn air was crisp, carrying the promise of a new beginning.