In the rest room, everyone was before the live broadcast cameras, their faces beaming with smiles, yet their thoughts varied, with silent undercurrents swirling soundlessly.
As everyone was conversing and introducing each other, the loudspeaker mounted on the wall sounded.
A man's voice, full of vigor, announced, "All athletes, please proceed to the indoor stadium to assemble. I repeat, all athletes, please proceed to the indoor stadium to assemble."
The broadcast spread throughout the area, and everyone stood up, leaving the rest room in small groups, chatting and laughing on their way to the stadium.
Caroline Edwin was on her own, not accompanying other less familiar people, walking at a leisurely pace, without a hint of dejection.
Following her was a girl with a low ponytail and sweet dimples when she smiled, Violette Jules.
