The classroom buzzed with excitement as Adrian entered, his sharp gaze silencing the chatter. He stood at the front, his hands clasped behind his back, waiting for full attention.
“As you all know, the sports fest is fast approaching,” Adrian began, his voice calm but commanding. “It’s not just a competition-it’s about teamwork, discipline, and representing this institution. Each one of you is expected to give your best. No excuses.”
The students nodded eagerly, some whispering to each other about their favorite events. Adrian’s eyes scanned the room, pausing momentarily on Elena, who sat quietly near the middle, avoiding his gaze.
“Each sport will have a team leader,” Adrian continued. “The leader’s responsibility is to guide the team and ensure practice sessions run smoothly. I will assign these roles based on performance, not popularity.”
Gabriel raised his hand. “Sir, if we’re talking about the final round, wouldn’t it make sense to choose someone who complements the professor?”
Adrian arched a brow. “And you have a suggestion?”
Gabriel grinned, nudging Elena slightly. “Elena Harper, sir. She’s one of the most disciplined and skilled in our class.”
Elena’s face turned crimson as several students turned to look at her. She shook her head quickly, mouthing a silent protest at Gabriel.
Andrew chimed in. “He’s right, sir. Elena is the best candidate.”
Mia, seated at the back, stiffened. Her hand shot up before Adrian could respond. “Sir, with all due respect, I think I’m a better choice. I’ve participated in multiple sports events before, and I know how to lead.”
Adrian’s gaze flickered between Mia and Elena. “Noted,” he said flatly. “Both of you will have the chance to prove yourselves during practice sessions. Results will decide who’s fit for the role.”
Mia smirked, leaning back in her chair with a self-assured air. Elena, on the other hand, shifted uncomfortably, her mind racing with doubts.
Practice sessions began that afternoon, with groups assigned to various sports. Adrian divided the activities, observing each team closely. Elena’s group was tasked with relay races, and despite her initial hesitation, she quickly found her rhythm. Gabriel and Andrew cheered her on, their encouragement pushing her to finish strong.
From across the field, Mia watched with narrowed eyes. She noticed Adrian’s gaze lingering on Elena, his sharp eyes tracking her movements as she practiced. Frustration bubbled inside her.
Later, during a short break, Mia caught wind of Gabriel and Andrew discussing Elena’s chances of being paired with Adrian for the final round.
“She’s perfect for it,” Gabriel said, grinning. “Adrian wouldn’t find a better partner.”
Andrew nodded. “Yeah, she’s got the skills. Plus, she’s not intimidated by him. That’s important.”
Mia clenched her fists, her jealousy burning hotter. She approached Elena with a sweet but false smile. “Elena, you’ve been doing so well. But don’t you think all this pressure might be too much for you? With everything else going on in your life…”
Elena frowned, sensing the hidden jab. “I’m fine, Mia. Thanks for your concern.”
“Of course,” Mia replied, her tone saccharine. “I just wouldn’t want you to overwork yourself and…mess up in front of everyone.” She walked away, her smirk deepening as Elena’s expression faltered.
Over the next few days, strange things began happening during practice. Elena’s equipment would mysteriously go missing, forcing her to scramble for replacements. Her name was inexplicably removed from the list of participants for certain events, and whispers followed her wherever she went.
Gabriel and Andrew quickly caught on. They cornered Mia near the lockers after one of the sessions.
“We know it’s you,” Gabriel said, his tone cold.
Mia feigned innocence, tilting her head. “What are you talking about?”
“Don’t play dumb,” Andrew snapped. “You’ve been sabotaging Elena, and we’re not going to let it slide.”
Mia laughed, crossing her arms. “Oh, please. If Elena can’t handle a little competition, maybe she shouldn’t be in the running at all.”
“You’re pathetic,” Gabriel muttered, shaking his head.
Mia’s smirk only widened. “Keep dreaming, boys. Elena doesn’t stand a chance.”
Elena, unaware of the trap, struggled to keep up during practice. Adrian noticed her faltering performance and called her over after the session.
“Harper, stay back,” he ordered, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Elena approached him hesitantly, clutching her water bottle. “Yes, sir?”
Adrian crossed his arms, his piercing gaze locking onto hers. “What’s going on with you?”
“Nothing, sir,” she replied quickly.
“Don’t lie to me,” Adrian said sharply. “You’ve been distracted, unfocused. That’s not like you.”
Elena hesitated, her eyes dropping to the ground. “I’m sorry, sir. I’ll do better.”
Adrian studied her for a moment, his jaw tightening. “You need to stop letting others walk all over you, Harper. If you want to succeed, fight for it. No one will hand you victory on a silver platter.”
His words stung, but they also ignited a small spark of determination in her.
“Yes, sir,” she said quietly, her voice steadier this time.
Adrian nodded curtly. “Good. Now go. And Harper…”
She paused, looking back at him.
“Prove me right,” he said simply before turning away.
Adrian’s words echoed in Elena’s mind as she left the field, her resolve strengthening despite Mia’s constant attempts to undermine her.
Mia, meanwhile, wasn’t done. She watched from the sidelines, her jealousy and frustration festering. If Elena wanted to be in the spotlight, Mia would make sure she paid the price for it.
Adrian watching Elena walk away, his sharp eyes filled with both frustration and a hint of something deeper he couldn’t quite name.