Chapter 696
Elated, Neal and his teammates celebrated their hard-earned victory, contrasting starkly with the opposing team’s somber mood.
“That last maneuver by Ritchie was nothing short of spectacular,” Bonita let out a sigh. “I was sure he wouldn’t make it, but somehow, he managed to survive that team fight.”
Fernanda chimed in, still coming to terms with the match’s intensity, “It wasn’t Ritchie’s blunder. He clearly aimed to draw out our abilities. Whether it was a lapse in their communication or something else, it sparked a conflict. Ritchie was unmistakably trying to swing the momentum their way.”
With a respectful bow to the audience, the two teams exited the stage. Fernanda and Bonita also made their way out of the spectator area.
“Fernanda, I can’t join you tonight,” Bonita remarked. “I’ve got a study session with my roommate at the library. My first exam is in just two days.”
Understanding, Fernanda nodded. “Alright, just be safe heading back.”
“Definitely! And just think, by the time the finals are here, it’ll be summer break!” Bonita giggled with anticipation, her eyes twinkling.
“I’m already looking forward to your victory bash!”
“Thank you!”
Bonita then headed towards the bustling line at the stadium’s exit, her steps light and eager. Meanwhile, Fernanda veered off into a less-traveled side corridor leading to the backstage.
The corridor was eerily silent, deserted except for the distant echoes of the crowd, as Neal and his squad had already made their way to the interview room. Deciding to bide her time, Fernanda turned toward the lounge. She had only taken a few steps when a harsh exchange of words caught her attention from just around the bend.
“You’re only a substitute; why on earth couldn’t you stick to the plan? The blame for today’s loss falls squarely on your shoulders.”
Fernanda paused, her breath catching slightly in the tense atmosphere. Clearly, the unfortunate recipient of the rebuke was Ritchie—the only substitute used in today’s match.
“I entered that final clash to lure out their moves,” Ritchie retorted, his voice rough and unexpectedly mature, hinting at a defiance beyond his years.
“Who gave you that idea? Didn’t your teammate tell you not to do that? You should have remained cautious and waited for a chance to seize the upper hand.”
“Can’t you see they focused on me the entire game? If I hadn’t intervened, they would’ve just relentlessly targeted me until I was down.” Ritchie’s voice was even, his response measured. “I managed to draw out all the opponent’s moves. Yet, our team still lost. I really don’t think I’m the issue here. This isn’t something you should be pinning on me.”
“What’s with this attitude?” The man’s voice sharpened, rising in anger. “You’re nothing but a substitute, you…”
“Enough with calling me a substitute. What’s so wrong with being one? Weren’t you the ones who chose me from the ranks?” Ritchie scoffed, his voice laced with disdain. “Clearly, our team isn’t at par with the competitors. I performed well, and yet we lost. That’s on our team members, not me!”
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