Under the indigo night sky, stars twinkled like scattered diamond, while the moon cast a silver glow over the peaceful neighborhood. Only the feint sounds of crickets and the occasional bark of a dog disturbed the serenity
Tosin lay on her bed in her dark room, her gaze fixed on the ceiling. Typically, she'd be outdoors on a night like this, taking advantage of the pleasant weather to practice basketball and work on her shooting. But tonight, her heart was heavy, burdened by the memory of John and Victoria and the heart-wrenching scene that had unfolded few hours earlier. Even her mother had noticed Tosin's unusual behavior, her concern growing as Tosin's dinner remained untouched since her return home
The room was dim, the only light coming from the streetlights outside. Tosin's basketball gear sat neglected in the corner, a poignant reminder of her usual evening routine. Tonight, she simply couldn't summon the energy or motivation to lace up her sneakers and take to the court. As if reflecting her inner turmoil, a heavy rain began to pour, accompanied by strong wind, lightning and thunder
Unfazed by the storm, Tosin rose from her bed at 2am, ball in hand. She stepped out into the rain, determined to alleviate her restless, through the familiar rhythm of bouncing and shooting. Despite her unwavering form, the ball continued to miss its mark, exacerbating Tosin's frustration until she hurled the ball away in defeat. Her mother, awoken by the unmistakable sounds of basketball, rushed outside to find Tosin sprawled on the ground, defeated
Sade quickly helped her daughter back into the house, gently assisting her in changing into dry clothes. With Tosin safely tucked into bed, covered by a warm blanket, Sade switched off the lights and left the room. Tosin's exhaustion swiftly pulled her into a deep sleep. The following morning, however, Tosin awoke with a high fever and a persistent cold, the consequences of her late-night venture into the storm
Concerned for her daughter's well-being, Sade hurried to a nearby pharmacy to purchase medicine. After describing Tosin's symptoms to the Pharmacist, she received a prescription and the necessary medication. Upon returning home, Sade encouraged Tosin to eat light meal of tea and two slices of bread to regain her strength, despite her diminished appetite. Following the Pharmacist's instructions, Sade ensured Tosin took the medications as prescribed. The potent combination of the medicine and the comfort of her bed soon pulled Tosin back into a restful slumber
Meanwhile, at the Charlie Queens Academy, the SSS1A classroom was abuzz with chatter in the absence of their teacher
"Shalom, why isn't Tosin in school today?" Tolu asked, her voice tinged with concern
"I don't know. I didn't see her at the park this morning. I had to leave without her because I didn't want to be late for our morning training session," Shalom explained
"Shalom, why are you the only one who didn't know that we don't have training today?" Oluchi interjected, "It's obvious there wouldn't be training since we had a game yesterday. Coach want's us to avoid fatigue"
Shalom shrugged, admitting, "I didn't have access to the internet, so I couldn't check our group chat for updates"
Mercy chuckled, asking, "Do you really need to be informed about that, though?"
"I hope Tosin is fine, I'm worried about her," Tolu said, a crease forming between her brows
"Don't worry; she's probably fine," Oluchi reassured her. "She'll most likely be back in school tomorrow morning"
"I hope so. I can't shake off this bad feeling" Tolu confessed, her unease still lingering
"She's alright," Mercy said with a warm smile. "Maybe she just needed a day to rest, even though that's not really like her. She's always the first to train even when we're given time off. But I'm sure she's okay"
"I hope you're right," Tolu replied, her concern gradually ebbing as she took comfort in her friends' reassurance
Meanwhile, Tosin's condition continued to deteriorate despite her mother's diligent care and the medication prescribed by the Pharmacist. With each passing day, the illness grew worse, prompting Sade to take Tosin to the hospital where she could receive better and more advanced medical care.
Back at school, her friends, teammates and coach became increasingly worried
"Today is Friday, and Tosin hasn't been to school since our last game," Mrs. Lawal observed, her concern evident in her voice "I hope she's okay"
"Coach, Shalom and I have decided to pay her a visit," Tolu announced, determined to check on their friend
"I'm coming too," Oluchi chimed in. "I can't believe you girls made such a decision without involving the rest of the team"
"Well, I was just too worried," Tolu said sheepishly. "Sorry I didn't involve you guys. Hehe,"
"I'm coming as well," Eno said, eager to show her support for Tosin
"Me too," Mercy added, not wanting to be left out
As the entire team began to argue about who should go, each girl wanting to be there for Tosin, their captain, Mrs. Lawal watched with pride. She was grateful to coach a team with such a strong bond and unwavering support for one another
"Alright," Mrs. Lawal called out, bringing order to the discussion. "Only two of you will go. Tolu will be one, as she was the one that came up with the idea of visiting Tosin in the first place. Shalom will accompany her since she's closest to Tosin and is familiar with Tosin's neighborhood. That's my decision."
Though, the girls weren't entirely happy with their Coach's ruling, they murmured in acceptance
"Secondly," Mrs. Lawal continued, shifting the focus to the upcoming Christmas Champions Cup. "Training will resume next week. Also, don't forget to prepare for your exams. They start in three weeks before the Christmas Champions Cup. I shouldn't have to remind you that any team member who fails the exam, won't be allowed to participate in the tournament."
The team let out a collective groan, some of them worried that their academic performance might jeopardize their chances of playing in the tournament
"Alright, that's all! Dismissed!" Mrs. Lawal concluded
The journey to Tosin's house was filled with lively chatter as Shalom and Tolu discussed their shared passion for basketball and their admiration for their teammate, Tosin
"I hope Tosin is alright," Shalom said, her voice tinged with concern
"Me too," Tolu agreed. "She's always been there for us. I hope she's okay"
"Yeah. Hey, what do you admire most about Tosin?" Shalom asked, eager to delve into what makes their friend so special
"Her hard work and resilience." Tolu began, a hint of awe in her voice. "She never gives up. To think that she's always in A' classes despite being a dedicated basketball player. I heard she stays up late every night because of her personal training regime"
"That's right; she does," Shalom replied, smiling at the thought of Tosin's determination
"Wow. Tosin really is something else. She inspires me a lot." Tolu confessed, her admiration for their friend evident in her voice
"She inspires me too. She inspires everyone," Shalom agreed
"What about you? What do you like about Tosin?" Tolu asked, curious to hear Shalom's perspective
"Well, for me, it's her insane ability to learn quickly, not to mention her vast array of talents," Shalom explained. "You see, I started playing basketball before Tosin, and I was the one who convinced her to start playing basketball. But now, three years later, it feels like she's surpassed me, leaving me in the dust. I'm envious of her ability to learn so fast, but I won't lose to her. It's like she's trying to surpass the Victorious Varsity and become the best in Nigeria, but I won't lose to anyone! Not to Tosin, not to the Victorious Varsity and not to you, Tolu!"
Tolu's eyes widened in surprise at Shalom's declaration. "Me? Why me? I don't even score points in our games!"
"In my eyes, our team has two players who are close to the level of the Victorious Varsity. Potentially, they could surpass the Victorious Varsity in the nearest future," Shalom said, her tone unwavering
"Okay, who are they?" Tolu asked, intrigued by Shalom's assertion.
"You and Tosin," Shalom stated matter-of-factly
"Why is that?" Tolu questioned, eager to understand Shalom's reasoning
"I don't know if the others have noticed, but whenever you are on the court, our games become surprisingly easier than when you are not playing." Shalom revealed, offering a glimpse into her strategic mindset
"Me?" Tolu chuckled in surprise, still unsure of Shalom's logic
"Yeah. Also, I've never seen our Coach give you instructions. She has given every single member of team directions at one point or the other, even Tosin. But there is one player she doesn't need to coach – you!" Shalom pointed out
"So, because of that, you think I'm close to the level of the Victorious Varsity?" Tolu asked, a small smile playing at the corners of her mouth
"Yes, Tolu. You're a genius," Shalom said, her admiration for her friend clear
"Well, thanks, but you're overestimating me. I'm not even as good as you are," Tolu protested
"Yeah, you can continue being humble. It's attractive," Shalom teased, knowing full well that Tolu's modesty was genuine
"I'm serious, though. Speaking of the Victorious Varsity, what do you think after facing one of them three times?" Tolu asked, turning the conversation back to their recent experiences on the court
"Well, it makes me want to become stronger and help the team get better, so we can beat them," Shalom said, her determination shining through
"Me too. I've been training alone at home when my parents are away. Although, I'm unsure of how to improve, I believe I'll find an answer eventually," Tolu shared, voicing her own desire to become a better player for the team
"First Oluchi, and now you too? I have to start training as well. I need to get stronger. I believe that if I work hard, I'll discover new strategies. I won't lose to any of you" Shalom declared, her competitive spirit fueling her motivation
"Me neither," Tolu grinned, ready to embark on the journey of self-improvement alongside her friends and teammates
Getting to Tosin's house, they began to ring the gate bell. As they stood at the gate of Tosin's house, Shalom rang the bell, waiting for response. When none came, she rang it again, hoping someone would hear it this time
"Do you think anyone's home?" Tolu asked, trying to peek through the gate to see if anyone was coming to open it.
"I don't know. Maybe Tosin and her Mum are out or something," Shalom replied, concern etched on her face
"Let's wait a little longer," Tolu suggested
The two friends waited for ten more minutes, but still, no one came out or went in. They also dialed Tosin's contact but it was switched off. Eventually, they decided to head home, resolving to report that no one was around at Tosin's home
Unbeknownst to them, Tosin was actually receiving treatment at the hospital during their visit.
With each passing day, Tosin's health improved, but it wasn't until two weeks later that she fully recovered and returned to school
In the usually lively SSS1A classroom, Tosin sat quietly at her desk, her cheek resting on her hands, as she was lost in her thoughts. Although, she had recovered from her illness, the heartbreak from John's betrayal still weighed heavily on her
"Tosin, where have you been?" Tolu suddenly asked, interrupting Tosin's thoughts and causing her to snap out of her reverie
"Oh, Tolu, I've been good," Tosin replied, forcing a smile
"Why haven't you been in school all this time? Shalom and I came to your house, but no one answered the gate bell when we rang it," Tolu questioned, her concern evident in her voice
"That's right, I went to your mum's shop too but I was told your mum hadn't come to shop in a while. We've been worried about you, Tosin. What happened?" Oluchi added
"Well, I…. I er….. I've been ill. I was probably at the hospital when you guys came to visit. Sorry about that," Tosin explained, trying her best to hide her true emotions
"I didn't know about that. How are you now? Why didn't you text me?" Shalom questioned, clearly upset that Tosin hadn't reached out to her during her absence
"Shalom, one question at a time. Don't rush her with loads of questions," Mercy gently scolded, noticing that Tosin seemed overwhelmed
"Huh? What's that supposed to mean?" Shalom asked, taken aback by Mercy's comment
"Exactly what it sounds like. Can't you see she's still recovering?" Mercy said, defending Tosin's need for some space
Tosin, however, brushed it off with a short chuckle. "Guys, I'm fine, now. I'm getting ready for the examination. I hope you guys have been studying?"
"Of course, nobody wants to miss the tournament in three weeks," Shalom said, referring to the Christmas Champions Cup.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Tosin asked, not fully understanding what Shalom said
"Well, Coach said that any team member who fails the examination won't be allowed to participate in the Christmas Champions Cup. So, everyone has been working really hard to pass the exams," Oluchi clarified
"I see. Well, that's good," Tosin said, forcing another smile
Despite her brave façade, Tosin was hurting deeply
Due to the upcoming exams, Mrs. Lawal canceled all training sessions and basketball-related activities, including their early morning laps, to ensure that the players focus on their studies during the exams. The week-long exams eventually came to an end, bringing a sigh of relief to the players, who were eager to return to their regular routine
Meanwhile, at Michael Olumide Hospital, Dr. Fred sat across from John, a somber expression on his face
"Good morning, Mr. ….?" Dr. Fred questioned; his voice laced with concern
"John, sir. John Oluwasegun," John replied, his eyes filled with worry
"Mr. John Oluwasegun, the result for the test we conducted have arrived," Dr. Fred revealed, holding a white envelope in his hand
"Okay, sir. So, what's the result?" John questioned, anxiety creeping into his voice
"Well, I'm sorry to have to tell you that your test results are positive for HIV," Dr. Fred said, handing the white envelope over to John
John's heart plummeted at the doctor's words as he accepted the envelope, his hands trembling
"This is a serious diagnosis, but it's important to know that there are effective treatments available today. You are not alone in this, and there are many resources to help you," Dr. Fred said, trying to offer some reassurance
John slowly rose from his seat and left the doctor's office, ignoring Dr, Fred's outstretched hand. He felt the world crumbling around him as confusion and fear gripped his heart
Victoria rushed to John's house, concern etched on her face, "Babe, what's the matter? You sounded scary on the phone," She questioned, moving closer to John
John silently handed the white envelope to Victoria. As she opened it and read the doctor's report, her nonchalant response sent a shockwave through John's already fragile state
"Oh, you are HIV positive. Is that why your face is like this?" Victoria asked, her lack of concern leaving John reeling
John's tears began to flow. "What did you say? I'm HIV positive, and that's all you have to say?"
Victoria shrugged. "Hey, don't shot at me! You are not the first to contract HIV, and you won't be the last either. It's not a new thing. People are living with it. Why are you acting like the world is about to be destroyed by some sinister villainous being?" She said, his dismissive attitude shocking John to his core
John's face contorted in anguish. "I haven't touched any other girl except you. Tosin didn't let me touch her either. She was always preaching about waiting until marriage. That means…"
Victoria interrupted him, her voice devoid of empathy. "That's right, I'm a HIV patient as well. So what? It's no big deal! NO BIG DEAL!"
A tearful smile crossed John's face as realization downed on him. "I see now. You know what? We're done," he said, his voice barely a whisper
"What did you say?" Victoria asked
"It's over! Get out of my house! Out of my life! I don't want to ever see you again. Just go!" John yelled, his voice cracking under the weight of his emotions
Victoria let out a loud sinister laugh as she walked away, leaving John alone in his house sobbing and weeping over his shattered world
At Charlie Queens Academy, the end of the exams brought a welcome reprieve to the students, as Teachers were now occupied with grading their scripts and preparing end-of-term reports. The Queens, however, saw this free time as a prime opportunity to train and strategize for the upcoming Christmas Champions Cup. Mrs. Lawal offered guidance via their group chat when she could, as she too was busy with grading and paperwork. The players spent nearly every waking moment honing their skills on the court
When Mrs. Lawal finally completed her administrative tasks, she returned to the gym with a crucial piece of information to share with her team
"Hello girls!" Mrs. Lawal greeted the eager faces of her players
Good morning, ma!" The girls responded in unison
"How are our preparations for the Christmas Champions Cup going? Are you ready?" Mrs. Lawal asked, her eyes scanning the group
"Yes, ma'am!" they chorused; determination evident in their voices
"First of all, the Christmas Champions Cup fixtures are out," Mrs. Lawal announced, knowing the girls were anxious to learn about their first opponents
"So, who are we facing first?" Tolu asked, anticipation hanging in the air
"Our first opponents this year is Wyse International High School," Mrs. Lawal replied, watching the girls closely for their reactions
The Queens were stunned. Though, they had anticipated a tough first match, they never expected to face last year's runners up in their first match
"Yeah, I'm sure you all know this, but like the Rose Newton High School, Wyse International High School has a member of the Victorious Varsity in their team as well. She's an aggressive scorer. An unstoppable scorer. Cynthia James could single-handedly score 100 points in a single game without breaking a sweat." Mrs. Lawal elaborated
The girls exchanged worried glances, a collective sense of concern filling the gym
"I heard she even broke through Victoria's defenses when they face each other in last year's Christmas Champions Cup," Mercy said, her voice barely a whisper
"What?!" The Queens gasped in fear
"That's right," Mrs. Lawal nodded. "But that's beside the point. Get ready, we're leaving Lagos on Sunday morning. The Proprietor has booked our flights for us, and we are scheduled to take off at 8 AM. Be sure to gather here by 5 AM on Sunday morning so we can depart on time. Your exam results will be released tomorrow. Anyone who fails will stay behind
With that, Mrs. Lawal signaled the start of their afternoon training session, "Alright, let's begin today's practice. Divide yourselves into groups of eight!"
The Queens resumed their rigorous training routine, eager to prove their worth against their formidable opponents. The following day, when the results were announced, every player had managed to pass the exams, albeit with varying degrees of success. Even those who struggled to make grades were relieved to know they would still be part of the team heading to Abuja for the Christmas Champions Cup
The morning dawned with a biting chill that seemed to penetrate the very marrow of one's bones. An eerie silence enshrouded the Charlie Queens Academy, broken only by the distant hum of a solitary engine. Clad in their vibrant pink track suit, the Queens met up in the school premises as agreed, their breath visible in the frosty air, as they awaited the bus that would ferry them to the airport. Despite the early hour and the somber atmosphere, the Queens buzzed with anticipation, their excitement tangible as they prepare to embark on their latest adventure
Soon the familiar horn of the bus pierced the silence, signaling its arrival
"Alright, let's go and claim the prize that awaits us," Mrs. Lawal announced with a smile, her words galvanizing the team
"YEAH!" The Queens cheered in unison
The ride to the airport was quiet and uneventful, the calm before the storm of the competition that awaited them. Upon their arrival, they boarded their flight to Abuja, their dreams of victory and glory fueling their determination
The Christmas Champions Cup. It is an annual high school tournament that brings 74 Nigeria school basketball teams together, each vying for the top prize. As the festive season approached, the nation's most promising young athletes converged on the court in a thrilling display of skill and camaraderie. That is the Christmas Champions Cup
Upon arriving at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the Queens were whisked away to their government-sponsored accommodations, their focus sharpening as they mentally prepare for the battles to come
*December 3rd 2066*
The opening ceremony commenced and the atmosphere crackled with anticipation as the 74 schools assembled., spectators packing the arena to witness the beginning of an epic competition. But amidst the fervor, one member of the Queens was struggling to
"Coach, do you have a minute moment?" Tosin asked, her voice barely audible
"What is it, Tosin?" Mrs. Lawal inquired
"Please, can I sit out this game?" Tosin implored