{Valencia's POV}
[Pinnacle Academy, Stadium 1 - Arena A: Allen's Cafe]
[6:50 PM]
Milio Idris's voice boomed through the dispersing crowd.
"...that concludes the ceremony! Wishing you all a wonderful evening!"
BZZZT!...BZZZZ!
[Message from Group chat: VCL <3 - Sender: Camila]
I clutched my plaque, checking the message from Camila.
[Camilia: <6:52 PM> Valenciaaaaa, we're gonna be at the food court towards the main lobby, Be there so we can celebrate! (Bring Jan as well pls...)]
[You: <6:53 PM> Okay.]
They were planning a celebration dinner in the stadium's food court... but why bring Jan?
Oh right...
Smiling, I typed a quick "Okay."
Just as I stepped off the stage, I caught sight of Jan.
He was making his way towards the exit, He seemed rather relieved.
A wave of hesitation washed over me.
Should I ask him? It felt… off.
Even with the win, celebrating in front of him tasted like ashes.
But... he was my friend – had been for eight years.
