#Chapter 43 Party

The cry for allegiance was resounding, but Candido was already gone. I was sure that he could hear it echoing through the stadium. After a little while longer, we checked out of the hotel and headed back to campus. I carried the trophy onto the bus and everyone cheered for me.

“Cheers to Hedy and Claire!” The captain said.

“Cheers!”

I looked up at the familiar voice. It was Francium boarding the bus to head back with us, grinning alongside the president of rugby’s administration. His eyes were bright and happy. There was something in his posture that gave me pause. He seemed healthier than the last time I saw him.

“Francium?” Claire asked. “What are you doing here?”

“Surprise!” He said. “I’m the new vice president. We finished up just in time to see the last game.”

His eyes drifted over to Claire and grew intense as he looked at her. “You were great, Claire.”

Claire’s face turned bright red. “Th-Thanks…”

He grinned. “We’re hosting a party for the win, and you two back on campus. The w