Beyond the Horizon of Love (Ryker Series #1)

BTHOL [17]

I just put my cellphone inside my purse before forcing myself to give my full attention on the candidates in front.

Every time I looked at their side, naaabutan kong bumubulong iyong babae sa kanya. Mag-iiwas lang ulit ako ng tingin kapag tumitingin din si Kuya Sean sa pwesto ko.

"But before we completely say goodbye to our reigning Miss Intramurals 2022, let's take a moment to honor her incredible journey and her year of service to RU University."

Umayos ako ng tayo sa backstage nang marinig ko ang sinabi ng host. The audience erupts in applause as a video montage of my reign is displayed on the large screen.

"Janniza Avril has truly been an inspiration to us all, not just for her beauty but for her kindness, dedication, and commitment to making a positive impact on our campus community."

The video montage concludes, and the spotlight now focuses on me. I was gracefully standing at the end of the stage, wearing my stunning evening gown.

"Janniza Avril, it's been an honor to have you represent RU University as Miss Intramurals."

I took my final walk, gliding down the runway with poise, confidence, and a warm smile for everyone. I waved to the audience, blowing kisses while laughing as my friends started to chant my name on the other side of the gymnasium.

When I reached the side of the gym near Kuya Sean's part, I saw him intently looking at me. Nag-iwas ako ng tingin bago nagpatuloy sa paglalakad.

As I reached the center of the stage, the audience rose in a standing ovation while clapping their hands as they looked at me.

"Avril, we have a special token of appreciation for you. Please join us at the center stage."

I was presented with a bouquet of roses and a beautifully crafted tiara, symbolizing my reign as Miss Intramurals 2022. I accepted the gifts with gratitude.

"Thank you, everyone, for this incredible journey. It's been an honor to represent RU University, and I'm forever grateful for the memories and the love I've received during my reign. Remember, each one of you has the potential to make a difference. Keep shining!"

Nagtungo ako sa gilid ng stage to wait for my turn to finally pass the crown. 

"It's the moment we've all been waiting for. Who will be crowned as the Mr. and Ms. RU Intramurals 2023?"

The judges' decision is announced, and the winners are crowned. It was from the College of Radiologic Technology who won the crown this time.

"Congratulations!" I said as I passed her the crown.

"Thank you so much po!" she giggled. "Pinilit ko po talagang manalo kasi gusto ko pong ikaw ang magpapasa ng korona sa akin," dagdag pa niya kaya sabay kaming tumawa.

"Ladies and gentlemen, give a big round of applause for our Mr. and Ms. RU Intramurals 2023!"

The winners take a triumphant walk down the runway, with applause and cheers from the audience.

"Thank you to everyone who joined us tonight for this incredible event. Congratulations to our winners, and to all the contestants... you are all stars! Remember, it's not just about the crowns... it's about the experience and the friendships made along the way. Thank you, RU community, and everyone in the audience for being a part of this extraordinary evening."

Bumaba na ako sa stage at lumapit kila Nova na kanina pa naghihintay sa akin.

"Magbibihis lang ako saglit," paalam ko kaagad.

Ni-lock ko lang iyong pintuan bago ako nagmadaling nagbihis ng damit. Paglabas ko, I was shock when I saw Kuya Sean waiting outside.

"Are you done?" he asked me.