They alighted from the coaster bus. The players jubilated as they got out. The whole school was already waiting for them. They walked in with gold medals on their necks. Levi lifted the trophy up. They had their usual blue and white jersey on but this time around 'champions' was written on the back instead of each player's name.
The whole school cheered them up. Casey felt like a hero. He stepped into the scene when only six matches were left out of twenty-six but they claimed the title. He had just set a new record as far as coaching history was concerned in the league.
They appeared in the assembly hall for the victory ceremony. All the players were given awards. He was also given an award but he also got a medal.
Casey could not help but smile. He was crowned as the coach of the year. People showered praises on him. It was his day. As he shook hands with Principal Robinson, he felt elated.
Mr. Hudson also shook hands with him. He had made him proud. He remembered he and Cody used to be un-cool to everyone. The epic fail had changed their lives completely. He approached him wholeheartedly.
The students hailed him and carried him high up on their shoulders. He told Cody and told them to put him down. Cody ran to him and embraced him warmly.
"Congrats bro. you are the best". Cody said.
"Thanks". Casey replied.
Soon, the celebration went down and everyone went to the school hall. Cody didn't seem to understand what was happening.
'Why is everyone moving towards the hall?" Cody asked.
"It's the end of the year party. Christmas carols will be sung and Melissa is also going to perform there". Casey said and stopped. He could realize what the mention of that name.
Cody's face paused instantly. Casey knew what it meant.
"You are coming along, aren't you?'Casey said slowly, unsure of his next response.
"No, I'm not. Melissa's there." Cody said, grumbling.
"Are you not going because you've decided to be absent in the initial or you made this decision just after you heard she's going to be there". Casey said, giving him a weird stare.
"Okay, you got me. I reckon with the latter." Cody said, giving up the truth.
Casey exhaled and gave him a facial expression that made it crystal clear that he was displeased.
"Must you always be against each other? Her intimidating personality will make you do things you do not want to do in the eventual if you continue in this vicious circle of hatred."
"Okay, I will go". He said with indifference.
They entered the hall. They sat in the middle but the students made them get the seats at the front.
"You see, you don't demand respect, you earn it". Casey said, making reference to the treatment they got from the students.
Melissa was already on the stage by the time they got there. Casey looked up and observed the place. Soon, the students began to dance to the upbeat rock music and everywhere was noisy.'