Yz?!! We stopped short from laughing when the door suddenly bursted open, drawing out a panting James.
J..ames. What are you doing here? I asked, startled. We three exchanged frantic looks as James roamed his eyes around the room.
Where is Yza?! What happened to her?! He asked in that same panic-stricken voice.
I..I'm not sure but I think they brought her to the clinic, that is if she's lucky enough to not have serious injuries. I said nonchalantly, making James' brow shot up in bewilderment. I mean, I'm pretty sure it wasn't that bad. I hope so.
Yza told us she slipped when she got out of the shower.
And we just found out that Suzie's shampoo's spilled all over the floor. Maybe that's why.
It's from Scandinavia and she's been bragging about it the whole time. Kat and Lia alternately explained their "observations" as I stood there looking at James' expression. His lips were a straight line and anger was flaming in his eyes.
Are you sure that's what happened? He asked, tossing a doubtful glance at me. Lia opened her mouth but James' words stopped her. You're saying you didn't do this to her?
I feigned an offended expression when I turned to speak. You can't be serious James. You really think we can do that to our teammate? I shook my head lightly as I sniffled. I know Yza and I are not in good terms. But I'm not that evil to do something like that to her! Do you think I'd let our squad be undermanned in this day of the competition?! Do you honestly believe I am that selfish?
Oh, Jas no. Oh. Lia came up to me and caressed my back while James looked surprised with the sudden outburst of emotions. He then heaved a sigh and placed his hands on my shoulders.
I'm sorry Jas. I'm sorry if I offended you. I know it's irrational of me to think you have something to do with Yza's accident. I'm really sorry for accusing you of such thing.
A tear fell from my eye right on cue, like a director had just shouted 'action' from his seat. Woah don't cry! He wiped my tear away then stroke my cheeks lightly. I'm sorry. Really. I didn't mean to.
It's okay James. I'm just a little emotional and pressured today. I let out a huge sigh before smiling at him. I'm okay now. I think you should go check Yza. I squeezed his hand and he nodded. He gave me a quick hug then smiled apologetically at the two before leaving.
And the best actress award goes to...Ms. Jasmine Wilson! Lia then handed me her hairbrush as we giggled like gradeschoolers.
The waterworks is pretty convincing.
I know. I said cheerfully, facing the mirror again. I have to retouch my make up, don't you think? The girls nodded and we all smiled in satisfaction.
**
We shake the best (back line)
The Tigers put you to the test because we shake the best!
Peanut Butter
Reeses Cup!
You mess with us
We'll kick your butt!
Our hands are high
Our feet are low
And that's the way the Tigers go! (pause, pause)
We got it (pause, pause)
We got it!
I can feel it! Lia said gleefully, five minutes before the announcement of the Sports Fest's Cheerleading Champion.
Feel what L?
That we're gonna win! She literally bounced up and down when she said that.
I never knew you were a psychic Li. I chuckled then concentrated on the judges tabulating the scores. Once done, an organizer came up to them and they handed him the envelope. Lia reached for my hand and held it tight, she closed her eyes while Kat gathered her hands in front of her chest.
The organizer went on revealing the third and second placers, and we held hands tighter knowing we weren't called yet.
And this year's champion, garnering a 93.7 mark from our judges, is no other than *drumrolls* the Eastern High Tigers Cheering Squad!
Lia, with the rest of the team, jumped up and down when we were announced champions. Everyone was feeling ecstatic, expressing sheer joy with our undoubted win. We walked to the center of the court and received the prizes of our hardwork, shaking hands with the executives from different schools.
When the amusement and excitement drowned out, a familiar face approached me with his familiar smile.
Who shakes the best? He teased, both hands inside his pockets.
Shut up. I chuckled, staring at him a few more seconds than necessary.
Congrats. You nailed it. He scooted closer, saying something under his breath. I know what you did. I just don't approve of it that much.
What are you saying?
He smirked then mouthed. Yza. I raised my eyebrow, trying to look innocent but to no avail. It's very grade school, Jas. I wished you thought of something better. He grinned and I was dumbfounded. How could he possibly know that?!
Don't worry. Your secret's safe with me. Seth winked, giving me a small peck on the cheek before leaving me speechless.
