It was once again a heroes’ welcome for the two champions the following morning at school. The whole Gyeonggi Science High School was elated due to the most recent recognition brought by Kris and Krystal, particularly because they had beaten Sukji High School it its own court. For many students, that was more important than the actual win at the quiz bee. Sukji had always been their school’s archrival, after all.

“Geez, I don’t get why they get so worked up with it,” Krystal groaned. She was at the school cafeteria munching on her chicken sandwich for lunch. They’re at their usual spot.

Amber let her eyes wander to a nearby group of students, celebrating among themselves. “Come on,” she playfully hit her cousin’s arm. “I know you feel good about it too,” she said as she watched a few junior students shyly congratulating the achiever from afar.

Krystal smirked as she wiped the mayonnaise off her lips with a tissue. “I am the winner they’re talking about,” she pointed out. “Of course, I feel good.”

The older girl stared at her cousin proudly as she remembered the night after the win.

“Hey,” Krystal smiled as she entered Amber’s room. It was turning 9PM and the older one was already preparing to go to sleep when her cousin suddenly crashed into their house, and into her room.

But knowing where the other girl had been that morning, Amber sat up immediately. “What happened at the quiz bee?” She asked with so much curiosity.

Krystal walked in and sat on the bed, her face all scrunched up.

“Seriously,” she huffed. “I’m pretty certain everybody at school knew already that we won and you’re still asking me? And you dare call yourself my cousin?”

Suddenly, Krystal’s head jerked forward as Amber hit it playfully with a soft pillow. “Don’t you use your smart tongue on me, woman,” the latter warned. “You know exactly what I meant.”

The younger girl smiled and slipped her lower body under the cover. “I saw them,” she said as if it’s the most casual thing in the world.

Amber’s eyes widened in worry. “And you’re okay?”