Falling Into Your Smile: The Path Forward.

As the team's departure for Worlds drew nearer, the excitement in the air was palpable. The players were focused and determined, each of them driven by the desire to prove themselves on the global stage. For many of them, this was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication—a chance to compete against the best in the world and make their mark on the international scene.

Tong Yao watched as the team went through their final preparations, her heart swelling with pride. They had come so far, overcome so many obstacles, and now they were on the brink of something truly extraordinary. Even though she wouldn't be competing alongside them, she felt deeply connected to their journey.

In the days leading up to their departure, Tong Yao found herself increasingly involved in the team's strategic discussions. Xiao Rui had recognized her potential as a coach and had begun to include her in more of the behind-the-scenes planning. It was a role that Tong Yao embraced wholeheartedly, eager to contribute in any way she could.

The night before the team was set to leave, they gathered for a final team meeting. The atmosphere was a mix of anticipation and nerves, everyone keenly aware of the challenges that lay ahead.

Xiao Rui stood at the front of the room, addressing the team with a calm, steady voice. "We've worked hard to get here, and now it's time to show the world what we're made of. This isn't just about winning—it's about proving to ourselves that we belong here."

He paused, letting his words sink in. "We're not just a team—we're a family. And no matter what happens out there, we'll face it together."

The players nodded in agreement, the gravity of the moment weighing heavily on them. Tong Yao looked around the room, her gaze lingering on each of her teammates. She knew how much this meant to them, how much they had sacrificed to get here. And she knew that no matter what happened, they would give it their all.

After the meeting, Tong Yao stayed behind to talk with Xiao Rui. He had been a mentor and friend to her for so long, and she wanted to express her gratitude.

"Thank you, Xiao Rui," she said, her voice sincere. "For everything you've done for me, and for believing in me."

Xiao Rui smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "You've earned every bit of it, Yao Yao. I've seen how much you've grown, both as a player and as a person. I'm proud of you."

Tong Yao felt a lump in her throat, her emotions swirling. "I'm going to miss being out there with the team," she admitted, her voice tinged with sadness.

"You'll still be with us," Xiao Rui replied, his tone reassuring. "In every strategy, in every decision we make, your influence will be there. And when you're ready, you'll be back on that stage, one way or another."

Tong Yao nodded, feeling a sense of resolve settle over her. She wasn't saying goodbye—she was just taking a different path. And as much as she would miss competing, she knew that she was making the right choice.

The next morning, the team gathered at the airport, their luggage in tow as they prepared to embark on their journey to Worlds. Tong Yao stood with them, offering last-minute words of encouragement and support. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, the reality of what they were about to do finally hitting home.

As they made their way to the gate, Lu Sicheng walked beside Tong Yao, his hand resting protectively on her lower back. He had been her rock throughout this entire journey, and she couldn't have asked for a better partner.

"You ready for this?" he asked, his voice filled with warmth.

Tong Yao smiled, feeling a mix of nerves and anticipation. "As ready as I'll ever be. I'm just excited to see what the team can do."

"They're going to do great," Lu Sicheng said confidently. "And you'll be right there with us, every step of the way."

They paused at the gate, the moment of departure finally upon them. Tong Yao felt a surge of emotion as she looked at the team, her heart swelling with pride and love. This was her family, her home, and no matter where life took her, she would always be a part of it.

"Good luck, everyone," she said, her voice steady despite the lump in her throat. "I know you'll make us all proud."

With a final round of hugs and farewells, the team boarded the plane, ready to face the challenges that awaited them at Worlds. Tong Yao watched them go, her heart full, knowing that she had made the right choice.

As the plane took off, carrying her teammates toward their destiny, Tong Yao felt a sense of peace wash over her. This was just the beginning of a new chapter—one filled with hope, possibility, and the promise of a bright future.

And she was ready to embrace it, whatever it might bring.