Time Will Tell (A Michael Jackson Story)

Chapter 10

Chapter 10

"First call for the 800 meter dash. Again, first call for the 800 meter dash. Check in to the race by the tent."

I finish my stretches and take a deep breath.

My heart is racing like it always does before I run.

"Don't think. Don't think." I keep repeating quietly to myself.

I run my hand along my smooth, straight ponytail and re-fix my black headband.

There's a cool wind blowing. Perfect, not too hot and not too cold.

When I feel like I'm as ready as I'll be for the race, I scurry over to the bleachers and lace up my trusty black and gold spikes.

These are my babies. They've been through a lot with me, ever since my first track meet. (Yeah, my feet don't grow.)

I remove my magenta ultralight jacket, revealing my white jersey with 'Roosevelt' in gold lettering.

A few minutes later, I'm checked in with the number five stuck on my left hip. My lucky lane and number. And, my jersey number. I walk to the starting line, not before Cera almost tackles me.

"Ani-koko! You're gonna do great! Believe in yourself, girl. Everyone believes in you."

I giggle and hug her tightly. "Thanks Cer. And shut up with that stupid nickname!"

"Maybe." She smirks and jogs off to watch along the fence.

I grin and take in my competition, hoping for an easy race.

I take a deep breath and do last minute stretches.

"Runners?" The official says, his whistle nearing his mouth.

I glance around at the eight of us and we nod.

"Take your mark."

We step up the blue line, my heart pounding in my chest.

Win. Show him. I don't play games.

The gun goes off. Time to go.

Two laps, that's all it is. I move my arms and stride my fastest, one foot in front of the other.

The wind swooshing by as I feel free along the track. It's all coming back to me.

I will myself not to look back; it's one of the biggest mistakes you can make in a race.

I hear faint pounding feet behind me, letting me know that someone was coming in close.

Around the second bend, I pick up the pace. But now, a girl from Leon High is right on my tail.

I force myself to keep running just like I know how.

As I pass through the straightaway and into the second lap, I hear screaming.

"Go Aniko! Faster! Come on girl!!"

A small smile adorns my face, knowing its Cera, and a few other teammates.

One more lap to go. I fall into a quick stride once more, my breathing becoming heavier.

I roll my eyes mentally, still having that girl gaining on me.

Damn, why can't I shake her?

Focusing all my attention on the race, I know now's the time to sprint.

Firing down the curve, I give it my all. I see the finish line.

It's mine, I've won.

I cross the finish line and pump my fists in the air, before saying 'Good job' to all the runners.