Dying Embers

Chapter Thirty Two

Chapter Thirty Two: Calm

The awarding ceremony wrapped up, and it was clear that everyone was in high spirits. Chance's team took home the first-place award, while Tunnel's basketball team claimed the championship. The volleyball teams, both men's and women's divisions, earned second place. I didn't pay much attention to the other results after that because I got caught up in congratulating everyone, especially Chance. I was genuinely happy for them. They told me this was their first win at the City Meet, and I couldn't be prouder. It was a clear sign of how much they had improved and grown.

"This calls for a celebration, you guys!" Henry shouted to his teammates, lifting the trophy he was holding high in the air.

Henry also received an individual award for the Best Gold Glove, while Chance was recognized as the Best Slugger.

"Absolutely! You two are buying the drinks!" Nimbus joked, teasing them.

"Hey, Martinez, how about at your place? What do you think? Let's invite the basketball team and some classmates too," Henry suggested.

Chance chuckled, his arm wrapping around me. I was wearing his cap and the jacket from his jersey.

"Dude, let me ask my grandma first."

"Alright, bro. Saturday, right? Sabihan ko sina Tun," Henry said, looking at the rest of the group. "Unless you've got a date or something, then you better cancel it, mga gago!"

Nagtawanan ang lahat sa sinabi ni Henry, at mga kaunting biruan. We were still inside the gym where the awards ceremony had been held, and the place was buzzing with people, all celebrating, taking pictures, and soaking in the moment.

"Makakapunta ka ba sakali? Sabado?" tanong ni Chance sa akin.

"Of course," I said with a smile.

There was no way I'd miss it.

"You sure? Won't your dad mind? I can ask for permission if you want."

"Chance, don't worry. I'm sure mapapayagan naman ako. Besides, you're his favorite, remember?"

He chuckled, his lips curling into that familiar, playful grin. "True," he said, winking at me.

I rolled my eyes but couldn't help the smile that crept onto my face.

Nagkaniya-kaniya na kami matapos ang awardings. Nag-text na rin ako kay Heather na hindi na ako sasabay sa kanila.

"Martinez, update mo kami!" Henry shouted as we walked toward his car. He was already getting into his vehicle.

Nimbus, already wearing his helmet, hopped onto his motorcycle.

"Got it! Mag-ingat kayo, mga kupal!"

Both Henry and Nimbus gave him the middle finger in response.

Chance laughed beside me.

He opened the car door for me as we reached his vehicle, then got in right after. As soon as the engine started, he cranked up the air conditioning, and before I could even settle into my seat, he pulled me into a tight hug, catching me completely off guard.

"Chance, what—"

"I miss you," he murmured. "I've been craving your hugs these past few days. I just want to hold you longer."

My face instantly heated. Damn it, why does he have to say things like that?

I couldn't tell how many minutes passed, but eventually, I felt him loosen his embrace.

"Tara na?" ngiti niya, his eyes twinkling.

Kinagat ko ang labi ko at tumango. Pakiramdam ko namumula pa rin ako. Nakita kong sumilay ang ngisi sa kaniyang labi.