As I was about to leave, my dad stopped me and said, "Hey, Gabriel, I'm actually going to be around town for a while, so I'd love to catch one of your basketball games. Let me know when your next game is, okay?" His eyes sparkled with enthusiasm, and I could tell he was genuinely interested in supporting me.
I smiled, feeling happy that he was taking an interest in my life. "Absolutely, Dad. I'll make sure to let you know. We've got a few games coming up soon, so I'll keep you posted." I pulled out my phone and checked the schedule. "Actually, our next game is on Friday. Would you like to come?"
My dad nodded, his face lighting up. "That sounds great! I'll make sure to be there. And Gabriel, can I give you some advice?"
I nodded, curious about what he was going to say. We sat back down, and my dad leaned in, his expression serious.
"It's about Lizzy," he started. "I know you really like her, and I'm happy for you. But I want you to focus on your future right now. You're young, and you've got your whole life ahead of you. Don't get too caught up in one person, okay?" His voice was filled with concern, and I could tell he was coming from a good place.
I felt a surge of defensiveness, but I didn't want to argue with my dad. I knew he was trying to help, even if I didn't entirely agree with him. "I understand what you're saying, Dad," I said, trying to sound neutral.
But inside, I was thinking, "Lizzy is my girl, and only mine. I'm not going to let anyone come between us." I decided to let his advice slide, knowing that I had to make my own decisions when it came to my relationships.
My dad seemed to sense my hesitation, but he didn't push the issue. "Just remember, Gabriel, your future is important. Don't sacrifice it for anything or anyone," he said, his voice filled with wisdom.
I nodded, knowing that he was right, even if I didn't entirely agree with him. I hugged him tightly, feeling grateful for his love and support. "Thanks, Dad. I'll keep that in mind."
As I walked into school the next day, I was immediately struck by the electric atmosphere that filled the hallway. Students were buzzing with excitement, their voices filled with anticipation and enthusiasm. I couldn't help but wonder what was behind the commotion, and that's when I saw it - a massive poster plastered on the wall, taking up almost the entire space. It was a picture of a dinosaur holding a basketball, and on top, in bold letters, was written "KING DINO". The poster was so large that it seemed to tower over me, and I felt a sense of awe wash over me as I gazed up at it.
I stopped dead in my tracks, my eyes fixed on the poster as I tried to process what I was seeing. I felt a mix of emotions - shock, surprise, and a hint of embarrassment. I couldn't believe that the school would go to such great lengths to recognize my achievements on the basketball court.
I turned to a few of the students standing nearby and asked, "What's the occasion? Why is this poster here?" My voice was filled with curiosity, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of humility as I waited for their response.
One of them, a teammate from the basketball team, grinned and said, "Dude, it's all about you! The school wanted to celebrate your amazing leadership and skills on the court. You're one of the best captains this school has ever had!" His voice was filled with admiration, and I could tell that he was genuinely impressed by the poster.
I blushed, feeling a sense of pride and gratitude wash over me. "Wow, I had no idea. Thanks, guys!" I replied, trying to sound casual despite the fact that I was deeply touched by the gesture.
Another student chimed in, "Yeah, you've been killing it on the court, Gabriel! We're all so proud of you!" Her voice was filled with enthusiasm, and I could tell that she was excited to see me recognized in such a way.
I smiled, feeling a sense of appreciation for my teammates and the school. "Thanks, guys. This means a lot to me," I said, trying to convey the depth of my gratitude.
As I continued down the hallway, I couldn't help but notice the stares and whispers from other students. Some of them were pointing at the poster, and I could hear them saying, "That's Gabriel Dino Jr.! He's the king of the court!" Their voices were filled with admiration, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had earned their respect.
I made my way to my locker, still in awe of the poster. As I opened my locker door, I saw a note taped to the inside. It read, "Congratulations, Gabriel! You deserve it!" It was signed by my coach, and I knew that this was just the beginning of an amazing journey. I felt a sense of excitement and anticipation as I wondered what other recognition and opportunities lay ahead.
The rest of the day was a blur as I went from class to class, but I couldn't shake off the feeling of pride and gratitude that lingered inside me. I knew that this was a moment I would never forget, and I was grateful for the support and encouragement of my teammates, my stepdad, and the school.
Many things were changed, more like the school was trying to promote my image, to be more noticed out there, so that I'll get to attract interest from the top colleges that would help pave a way for me to make it to the NBA in the near future.
I'm really happy for this gesture, but still don't understand the special occasion on why all this were now happening.