Fake Dating My Ex's Hockey Star Brother (Maya Scott) novel Chapter 127

KATY’S POV

The ballroom erupts in cheers, then slowly settles. This is everyone’s favorite part of the night, besides the dance obviously. I try to look relaxed, like I’m not counting seconds in my head, but my heart speeds up anyway. The Blackrock names are coming. I know they are.

I’ve told myself all night that it’s fine and it’s just one event I’ll forget. But when you’re used to being expected to win something, not hearing your name suddenly feels very loud.

When it happens and it will, people will notice. They always do and I hate it. I hate the whispers that aren’t really whispers. I hate being talked about when no one actually says anything to my face.

And Zhao Lan? He’ll enjoy it. If there were no rules, he’d probably call my name on that stage just to mock me.

“Cadston College prioritizes these awards yearly because of their impact,” Mr. Felix says and I nod along like I’m listening, even though I’m not.

I take a breath and remind myself that this night isn’t meant to be a personal attack.

I’m here with my boyfriend, who makes me laugh even when I’m stressed. I actually like my dress, which is rare. I got to watch my best friend shine on stage. And my brother… well,

Justin is alive.

That should be enough.

So, fuck you, Zhao Lan.

“For outstanding leadership, consistent performance throughout the academic year, and meaningful impact on campus life…” Mr. Felix reads from the card in his hand.

I already have a feeling I know what’s written on it. It’s always the same two: either the Drama Club or the Student Government Council. My money’s on student government. They love anything with the word leadership in it. The debate club winning would be a miracle, considering they’ve taken this award maybe once in the last ten years and that’s being generous.

“For Outstanding Student Organization of the Year, the winner is… the Drama Club!”

Allie practically explodes beside me, halfway out of her seat. The hall fills with cheers as I laugh and pull her into a hug. Onstage, their president-Chioma, tall and effortlessly funny- takes the plaque with a smile that’s way too wide to be contained.

I don’t blame her.

Next up is the Outstanding Contribution to the Arts award. Allie won it last year, and honestly, it was one of my favorite moments of the night. Not because she’s my best friend…okay, maybe a little because of that, but because she genuinely earns everything she gets.

Have I mentioned she plays the cello? Probably not. I have a bad habit of always talking about myself but Allie is insanely talented, and the only reason she’s sitting beside me in Business Administration is well…her mother.

“The winner of the Outstanding Contribution to the Arts award was chosen carefully this year, “Mr. Felix says. “She has been consistent…”

Allie’s fingers tighten around mine, and I whisper a quick prayer that it’s her. I don’t even finish the thought before he continues.

“She volunteers in the college museum…”

I start clapping immediately because I don’t need to hear the rest. There’s only one person that fits.

“Let’s welcome Allison Carter to the stage.”

I’m screaming before I realize I am, my throat already hurting as Allie lifts her dress and makes her way to the stage. Braydon is on his feet too and clapping. Justin looks like a proud dad, still recording, and I’m ninety percent sure he has some unnecessary funny reason for it.

Allie’s smile when she reaches the stage is unreal. I blow her kisses, even though she probably can’t see me.

I’m so proud of her.

The next award is Athlete of the Year. Even before Mr. Felix starts his speech, the crowd has already made up their mind.

“Braydon Cooper! Braydon Cooper!”

I feel my cheeks heat up. God, I’m blushing and it’s not even my name.

If you think Zhao Lan has an ego, you haven’t seen Braydon in full ‘I’m the king of the world’ mode. The moment he decides he’s ready, he actually rises from his seat, smooths his suit, and walks to the stage without even waiting for his name.

The hall explodes and I have to cover my eyes for a second, because if his name isn’t on that plaque… I don’t even want to imagine.

“I really wish it wasn’t your name on this,” Mr. Felix mutters, and I pry my fingers apart just in time to see the announcement. “Cadston College’s Athlete of the Year goes to… Braydon Cooper, captain of the Hockey team.”

I’m on my feet, clapping so hard my hands hurt, but it’s drowned out by the chanting of his teammates in the corner. They whistle and bow like he’s some sort of god as he walks back.

When he comes back to his seat, he hands me his plaque and leans close, kissing my ear. I laugh, half embarrassed, half in awe, and suddenly I can’t stop grinning.

The next awards are called out, each one going to well-deserved people. Cadston doesn’t usually play favorites, and everyone knows you get recognized for hard work. I like that. It makes the night feel fair, even with all the nerves and cheering.

“For the Dean’s List Award…” Mr. Felix begins. Braydon reaches for my hand, giving it a gentle squeeze and my stomach flips a little. This is the one I’ve received every year and yes, annoyingly, always with Zhao Lan.

“The highest GPA in the college… well, there are two students who have a perfect 4.0 and share this incredible achievement. Please join me in congratulating Katy Evans and Zhao Lanhui.”

Allie yells out, “Yes! My best friend!”

I stand slowly, smoothing my dress, and try to look composed. Braydon already has his phone out as I walk to the stage to accept my plaque. Zhao Lan winks at me while I’m up there with him, but I ignore it, keeping my focus on getting back to my seat.

Once I’m seated, Justin leans over. “You’ve got to beat that dude somehow.”

“I support that,” Braydon adds quietly, nudging me with his elbow.

I glance back at the stage again.

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