Miss nobody strikes back

Sport day

Chapter Twenty-Six

Hanna

Wednesday: 5:00 a.m.

My alarm woke me up exactly at 5:00 a.m. It was Wednesday, the annual sports day, and gosh, I was nervous. We were going to be playing in front of the entire school—juniors, seniors, teachers, and even the school authorities. I could feel the butterflies in my stomach already. My team, the Tigresses, had been practicing hard for this day. It was the first game they had ever participated in, and I really wanted us to win.

I took a quick bath, applied my skincare routine, and slathered on a lot of sunscreen since we would be out in the sun for hours. Our new uniforms had just arrived, and Jenny had helped design them. They turned out pretty nice. We had white sleeveless jerseys with red stripes circling the armholes, and the hem of the shirts matched. Underneath, I wore a white strapless tank top. My name was boldly printed on the back in red, and in front, I had the number 05. The uniform came with matching white shorts that nearly reached my knees. I paired them with knee-length socks and the white and red Bapester shoes Aunt bought for me.

After getting dressed, I combed through my hair, straightened it, and tied it into a high ponytail, leaving a few strands to frame my face. My skin was glowing, looking flawless thanks to my skincare routine. With just sunscreen and a dab of lip gloss on my chapped lips, I felt ready. My bag was already packed; it held my phone, extra sunscreen, some cash, snacks, perfume, and a change of clothes for after the game.

As I walked downstairs, I noticed my family gathered around the dining table. They seemed surprised by my striking outfit—I never told them I had joined the basketball team. Claire, my sister, was also there, all dolled up in a black and gold cheerleading uniform. She was cheering for Grace’s team, of course, since they were friends.

I sat down at the table. “Good morning,” I said casually, diving into my food. Ever since what happened with Dad, I hadn’t been able to look him in the eye.

“Hanna, wow! You look pretty! Are you on the basketball team?” Claire asked with a bit of surprise, and I simply nodded.

“Why didn’t you tell me we had a basketball player in the house?” she added with a playful tone.

“You never asked, plus, you have no interest in the things I like, so what’s the point?” I replied, not looking up from my food.

“Thank God you’re right!” Claire exclaimed sarcastically. “Why the hell would a girl want to play in a failing basketball team? Grace is totally going to beat your ass.” She chuckled, sounding like the villain in a movie.

“Claire, don’t say that. Of course, we love what you like. We just think basketball is a bit dangerous. Look at your sister—she’s a cheerleader. The perfect sport for girls! And last time I checked, you’re not exactly the social type, so how are you going to—”

Before Mom could finish, I slammed my spoon on the table.

“Save it, Mom,” I said, pushing back from the table. Grabbing a bottle of water, I stormed out of the house.

“Later, loser,” Claire called out behind me. I ignored her and headed for my bike. I was about to hop on when a bright light flashed in front of me. A car rolled to a stop, and Jenny stepped out. She looked stunning, as always. She was wearing a white tank top with her name written in red ink on the back, and the front had a cool design. Her skirt was pleated, very short, and white with red stripes. She completed the look with long white socks and red Oreo sneakers.

Her short black hair was neatly combed, with her bangs parted slightly. She wore just a touch of makeup, enough to enhance her natural beauty.

“Hiya! Good morning! Wow, you’re looking fabulous!” Jenny said, walking over to where I stood.

“Morning, Jenny. Thanks! You’re looking fire too. Planning to seduce all the boys today?” I teased.

She grinned. “Not all, but maybe one,” she said with a wink.

“What are you doing here so early?” I asked.

“Well, I came to pick you up. Star player Hanna needs a good ride to school on the big day,” she said, flashing me a smile. I couldn’t help but smile back.

We both hopped into her car and zoomed off.

When we arrived at school, the place was buzzing with excitement. Everyone was dressed in their sports outfits, and the school had been nicely decorated for the occasion. Jenny and I stepped out of the car, and I quickly pulled on my headband. It was white with the word *Tigress* written across the front. As we walked in, we got plenty of stares—our outfits were really eye-catching.

Inside the classroom, it felt like we were celebrities. Our entire team, both the cheerleaders and the basketball players, were gathered together. We walked up to them.

“Hey, guys,” I said.

They all turned to us. “Hi,” they said in unison.

“Wow, Hanna, that outfit really suits you, especially with your red hair,” Rachel commented, and I smiled.

“Thanks,” I replied simply.

“This is our first official game,” Lauren, our team captain, began. “We’re going to be tested today, and it’s going to be tough. So, team, are you ready to hit the court and work some magic?” She looked at us, and we all nodded, determined.

“Great! All hands in!” Lauren said, stretching out her hand. One by one, we all placed our hands on top of hers.

“Go, Tigresses!” we shouted, raising our hands together in unity.

“Remember, my uncle always says basketball is a game of teamwork and friendship. Without those, we can’t perform wonders,” I said, hoping to inspire everyone.

“You’re right,” Maggie agreed. “We have to work together.”

We turned to leave, but just then, Grace and her team appeared in front of us.

“Well, well, well. Look who it is—the loser team,” Grace sneered, with Claire right behind her.

“Exactly!” Claire chimed in. “And with my sister on the team, this is going to be hilarious. Your outfits are so last season.”

I just frowned, trying not to let her words get to me.

“I would say the same, but at least we don’t use cheap materials,” Jenny shot back, stepping forward and pushing Claire out of our way. She was so bold, and I admired her for it.

As we walked down to the field, I felt the tension building inside me. I needed to stay strong for the team. I wanted this game to be a life-changer for Lauren and the girls. They deserved more than to live in the shadows after working so hard. With me on the team, I wanted to bring home the medal and the cup—for all of them. That was my goal.