Astra Chronicles

Chapter 16: A Promise

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"The problem with promises is that once you've made one, it's bound to be broken. It's like an unspoken cosmic rule." ―Bree Despain, The Dark Divine

Year 2113. Sports Arena, Academia Astra. A City, Gaea.

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"Rosenhelt for threeee!"

The cheers exploded in my ears.

It was the school sports festival. One of the most awaited events of the school year.

The Academia students gathered in the huge sports arena in the academy. We were up against the varsity from Southern Cross Academy.

Somehow, Team B rookie and captain Tram made an amazing shot that brought both teams tied-up with only 90 seconds left in the fourth quarter.

He had managed to flatten the 20 points lead the Archers of SCA had against the Knights.

Intense.

During the time-out, Tram seemed to search for someone among the crowd.

When our eyes made contact, he shot a wide grin. His skin glistened with sweat, his cheeks were red with exhaustion and yet his eyes sparkled right then.

My heart skipped a beat.

Wow.

"Sky," Lexi whispered. "I think he was looking at us, goodness."

Lexi clutched at her chest, an attempt to look shot in the heart. "That should be illegal."

The other girls around me grew excited. They were thrilled with the thought of the school's golden boy noticing them.

Despite several of them screaming, I could only focus on the loud pounds from my chest.

What was this feeling?

I was aware that I admired Tram. He has been my idol for a long time. But something had changed in the way his actions affected me.

With a shy smile, I gave him a small nod.

He seemed pleased when he returned the gesture and went back to the bleachers.

As I followed him with my eyes, I caught sight of Chase who was still wearing his varsity jacket. He has been seated at the bench for the whole game.

Chase gave me a knowing look.

Stupid bench warmer.

The annoying brat smirked as if he knew what I was thinking.

I regretted meeting this boy.

If only I knew any of his weaknesses then he wouldn't have an ace against me.

I really hope he has not mentioned anything to Tram. I was scared Tram would think I was creepy.

Keeping a photo of him on my phone?
What if that freaks him out?

Colors drained from my face.

"Are you sure you're alright?" I forgot Lexi was seated beside me.

She has been worried about me even when I was already soon to be discharged from the Infirmary.

"You look so pale," she remarked, placing her hand on my forehead to check if my intermittent fever came back.

I smiled at her, pushing away any negative thoughts.