Against the Odds

Chapter 8

Ellie

Coach Thompson cleared her throat and addressed us with great presence.

"After careful consideration and reviewing our recent performances, I am very happy to let you all know that our team has been selected to participate in the very famous national basketball championship in Los Angeles.".

Those words came crashing down like a tidal wave. My heart was racing as the ramifications of the announcement began to break in on my mind. This was more than just a tournament; it was a shot at national highlights for our team.

Coach Thompson said, her eyes scanning the team with pride. "It's a great opportunity for every single one of us, even more so than playing in the tournament because it's about showcasing our skills and representing our school at its best.".

I was feeling quite mixed—excited and nervous—a challenge that was going to channel all frustrations into something positive. The team was excited, and it was contagious. It felt like a turn for the better in my personal life.

Coach Thompson's eyes finally rested on me, and she smiled slightly to encourage me. "Ellie, I have seen so much dedication and leadership from you both on the court and off. I want to see you really step up during this tournament. You will be needed, and I fully believe that you will be able to step up."

I nodded, and my responsibility and determination surged inside of me. "Thank you, Coach. I won't let you down.".

The practice, however, was geared up with a new bundle of energy. Everyone was focused and driven, wanting to get prepared for the big tournament. I threw myself into the drills with new enthusiasm, my frustrations over Noah and Jackson forgotten in the momentary excitement about what was ahead.

With this, the announcement of a basketball tournament got everyone pumped as the school day came to an end. Walking down the hallway, Mia and I were upbeat; our feet moved fast, with every word full of anticipation.

"Oh, my God! Ellie!" exclaimed Mia, her eyes lightening. "Los Angeles! This is huge!"

"I know!" I exclaimed, barely containing my grin. "It's such a great opportunity. We're actually going to compete at the national level. Can you believe it?"

Mia grabbed my arm, her excitement almost pouring out of her. "We've got to start preparing. We need to get into shape. This could be our chance to really make a mark!"

I nodded avidly. "Absolutely. We've got to make sure we're ready for everything. It's going to be intense, but we can totally do it.".

On our way out of the school, Noah and Jared were standing at the lockers, and they were bubbling over with excitement. Noah's smirk had been replaced by an honest broad grin that seemed to suit the energy of the day. Jared practically bounced on his heels beside him; he was caught up in the excitement.

As Mia and I walked down toward Noah and Jared by the lockers, excitement was practically electrifying. But the moment Noah's eyes met mine, everything kind of got heavy. The buzz of the upcoming tournament could not be diminished, but the unresolved tension between Noah and me could no longer be glossed over.

"Hey, did you hear the news?" Jared called out, unfailingly enthusiastic. "Los Angeles! This is going to be incredible!

We tried to match their excitement, but it came hard with that current of hatred flowing beneath. "Yeah, we know," Mia replied, forced. "It's really huge. Fucking huge."

Noah didn't move his eyes off me, the corners of his smile too pointed. "Looks like we'll be spending a lot of time together," Noah said, totally sarcastic.