Disclaimer: The characters and ideas of HSM are sole property of the Disney movie. However any original characters and ideas do belong to me.

Troy had no problem letting loose at the party. He gladly accepted every drink that was handed to him by Jason or one of the other guys. He just wanted to have a good time, and that's what he did until the DJ played the last song of the night.

On the ride home he was extra chatty but didn't show any other signs of drunkenness. He was just confident so Sharpay figured her surprise was still a go. Troy was very touchy-feely throughout the ride home and in the elevator ride up to apartment. However, it all changed once the apartment door was open.

A wave of nausea hit him, and he bolted for the bathroom at lightning speed. Sharpay groaned in annoyance upon hearing his retching sounds. There would be no surprise fun tonight. She'd be lucky if Troy even made it to the bed. She was just happy he had removed his rented suit coat earlier. She would have killed him if he threw up on it.

While Troy made out with the white porcelain toilet, Sharpay grabbed a glass of water from the kitchen, and the antacid and aspirin from the hallway closet. Hearing the toilet flush, she entered the bathroom and placed them on the bathroom sink then took the wash cloth that was hanging up in the shower and soaked it cold water. She put it on Troy's forehead, who currently had the side of his face placed against the coolness of the tiled floor. "Thanks, baby," he mumbled miserably.

"If I help you, think you can make it to the bed?" Sharpay didn't want him to spend the night on the bathroom floor, especially in the odd position he was currently laying in. She refused to listen to him complain about back pain in addition to the killer headache he would have in the morning.

"I think so." He started to sit up, but did it a little too quickly. The room started spinning, and he had to close his eyes tightly to fight off the new wave of nausea.

"Just get up slowly," Sharpay advised.

Troy took her advice. He carefully made it to his knees, waited a few seconds, then used the counter to slowly raise himself to a standing position. He clutched the now cool cloth to his forehead with one hand as he stumbled across the hall to the bedroom. Sharpay walked behind him with a soft hand on the small of his back. When they reached the bed, she made him stand for another moment so she could pull back the covers. Troy tried to kick off his shoes during this time but failed miserably. Sharpay ushered him to lie down and took his dress shoes off for him. He let out a whimper of thanks as she pulled the sheet over his body. She just smiled and took the almost dry cloth from his forehead.

Back in the bathroom, she re-soaked the rag and gathered up the other things she had brought in there for Troy. She put everything on the bedside table for him to find except for the washcloth, which she laid over his forehead again. She placed a trash can next to him in case he couldn't make to the bathroom later. With Troy all set, she grabbed a pair of pj's from her drawer to get ready for bed herself.

Changing, she became a bit pissed that the black negligee she had bought for the evening had gone to waste, especially since the corset top gave her such nice cleavage. She knew Troy would have been knocked off his feet had she not told him to let loose.


The day the majority of East High had been waiting for finally arrived. It was Spirit Day, and everyone was asked to wear their school colors or school attire. The day also signified the kick off of basketball season. Tonight, the new varsity team would take part in a scrimmage during the Midnight Madness game. The entire school would pack the gym for the introduction of the team and the announcement of team captain, the guy who would lead the Wildcats out of their slump and to the championship under the guidance of their new coach. Alumni basketball players would also be turning up tonight, including Jack Bolton and Jason.

The evening would also be the debut of the new team uniforms that Sharpay had designed. They had been handed out the day before at practice. The team and Troy really liked the finished products until Troy found the receipt sitting at the bottom of the box. Looking at the pricing, he found that the uniforms and sweats had cost a lot more than the number she put on the order forms, meaning Sharpay had probably footed the rest of the bill.

When he confronted her about it, she instantly fessed up. She claimed she did it because the team deserved a fresh start, and in her eyes the extra $200 really wasn't that much for the designs she had worked so hard on.

Though Troy was very grateful, he insisted she be reimbursed from the team account. Sharpay was quick to point out that the team account needed every penny that was in it for travel fees for away games. So Troy said he would pay her out of his pocket, and she refused, saying she would rip up every check he wrote her. This was her gift to the team.

Troy let her think she had won that argument, but he planned on talking to the team tonight about a fundraiser to pay her back. Of course he had to figure out what excuse he was going to use with the guys, but he still had all day.


The entire varsity team wore their new sweats to school. Everyone commented on how sharp the custom-designed hoodies and pants looked. A few faculty members recognized the Wildcat logo, even though it was a little different. When they caught sight of Sharpay later in the day, they figured it out. The design had come from the team of 2008's warm-up jackets, like the one Sharpay was strutting around in with Bolton emblazoned on the back.

The highlight of the talk of the school that morning was not the new sweats or Sharpay wearing Troy's old jacket but rather the attire of Shayne Murphy. She had come to school that day actually dressed for spirit day. No one had seen her in East High colors since first semester freshman year. She wore dark denim skinny jeans, ruby red ballet flats and Reed's red basketball sweatshirt from last year. She also had white ribbed tank top underneath the hoodie that barely peaked out beneath the oversized article of clothing that had been in her possession since her first official date with Reed as boyfriend and girlfriend. Her auburn hair was pulled into a side ponytail and secured by a white ribbon.

Reed was waiting against her locker as she walked down the hallway ignoring the whispers of the cliques around her.

"Morning beautiful," he greeted as he leaned in to peck her cheek. "You're looking quite stunning in that sweatshirt, I must say."

Shayne rolled her eyes as she opened her locker. "Ok sure, Romeo."

"Seriously, you look far better in it that I ever did."

She closed her locker door and accepted his offered hand. They began walking down the hall towards homeroom with their fingers intertwined. Shayne couldn't help but be suspicious of all of Reed's compliments. He was never this charming. "Ok, I'll bite. What do you want?"

Reed placed his spare hand over his heart in mock offense. "By whatever do you mean?" He fluttered his eyelashes dramatically and rather girly-like.

Shayne's expression said "I'm not buying it."

Reed let out a heavy sigh. "Alright you've got me."

Shayne shook her head in amusement.

"I was thinking since we called off today's lunch time rehearsal that we make our official public debut as a couple in the cafeteria?" He closed his eyes in fear, waiting for the hit to come, but it didn't. Instead she shrugged her shoulders indifferently and led him into the classroom. "Is that a yes then?" he inquired, following her to her desk.

Shayne took her seat before responding. "It's more of a I really don't care. If that's what you want sure. Let's show all of East High that we're a couple, if they haven't figured it out already." She pulled on the red sweatshirt hanging on her form.

Reed gave her a killer smile. "I can't help that I wanna show my girl off, especially when she's the most beautiful one in all the land."

"Quit, quoting your lines and go take your seat." She shooed him off towards his desk on the other side of the room.


Troy decided to cut the already shortened after-school practice further down to hold a team meeting since there wouldn't be much time before the game. He blew the whistle to get the boys' attention. "Alright guys that's it for now. Everyone take a seat on the bleachers." He was proud that every one of them gathered up the basketballs and put them in the bin before doing as they were instructed and sitting down. "Ok I cut it short to talk to you guys about something. It seems our team account is running a little short these days, and with the new league changes, we're going to be doing a lot more travelling this season than in the past. We need to figure some type of fundraiser to raise money quick. Who's got ideas?"

Random people started shouting out. "Car wash!"

"Bake sale?"

"Carnival!"

"How about a casino night?"

Max Danforth stood up and quieted the team. "Those ideas are amateur, guys. We're the basketball team. We can't be doing some sissy bake sale. We gotta think big!"

"And what would big be, Danforth?" Troy challenged.

Max gave a cocky smirk. "That's easy Coach. A date auction, buy yourself a date with your favorite team member." He pointed to himself. "I'm sure I could bring in quite a bit of money."

"Last I checked prostitution is illegal," Reed countered.

"You've got something better, Douglas?"

"Actually," Reed stood, "I do." He climbed down the bleachers and stood next to Troy. "Alright team, Max was right about thinking big. We've got a lot of people turning out for the game tonight including the alumni. I say we get as many of them as possible to agree to a game with us. We'll announce it before Midnight Madness to get the crowd hyped. And we'll sell tickets to the event for $5.00 a pop instead of the usual $2.00. We could get the old Coach Bolton back to ref the game. What do you say guys?"

Murmurs of agreement sounded throughout the bleachers. The only one not enthused by the idea was Max, but that was to be expected.

"So just to clarify," Troy intervened, "you're suggesting a match-up between the alumni and this year's varsity?"

"No Coach, I'm saying we mix teams. Let's have the alumni play with us instead of against us. There's plenty still left in town: you, Jason Cross, Keegan Murphy and Brian Ferguson. I'm sure we'll be able to find more." He turned towards the team for agreement, many of whom had brothers or cousins who had played for the East High Wildcats too.

"Random teams." Troy let the thought sit for a minute to ponder it. "I like it. You guys get going. I'm gonna go talk to Hendricks about it now to see if we can do it. See you boys tonight!" He bolted from the gym in an attempt to catch the principal before he left for the day.


Troy checked himself over in the mirror of Sharpay's vanity. He let out a huge breath as he dusted imaginary dirt off of the brand new khaki suit jacket sleeves. Tonight was his debut as new coach of the Wildcats. Sure it was only a scrimmage, but the entire school was about to see the team he had hand-picked in action. He'd be lying if he didn't admit he was as nervous as hell.

"Aww, look at my basketball coach in his new suit."

Troy turned his head to find Sharpay leaning against the bedroom door with a pouty face. She was still in her Spirit Day attire consisting of dark jeans, a red tank top with a bit of rhinestone detailing along the neckline and Troy's old basketball zip-up. Her red Jimmy Choo's had been abandoned by the door the minute she got home, but would of course be back on her feet to complete the outfit for the game.

Troy did a turn for her with his arms out. "How do I look?"

Sharpay stepped forward to straighten his red tie. "Like a coach ready to make his debut." She stood on her tiptoes to give him a brief peck then ran her hands along his shoulders to smooth away the wrinkles that had settled there. "Whoever designed this jacket has impeccable taste."

"Oh, it's this new upcoming designer whose clothes will soon be found on a runway near you."

"Do they design for women too?"

"That's her specialty. She makes all sorts of sexy evening gowns for women everywhere. She's actually trying to break into the wedding dress market right now." Troy gave his Cheshire grin. "You know, in case you were wondering."

Sharpay raised her right eyebrow and crossed her arms over her chest. "I'll be sure to keep that in mind in case I ever need to look for a wedding dress."

"You will sooner than you think, baby." He placed a chaste kiss on her lips. "Now," he grabbed her shoulders and turned her body in the direction of the door, "we need to get going. So go put on the shoes that you'll be complaining about when we get home later."

Sharpay tossed her loose waves over her shoulder and gave Troy a warning look before departing for the living room.


The gym was packed from end to end. There was strong exciting energy radiating through the crowd as they waited for the team to make their debut.

Suddenly the lights went out and everyone quieted down. It was the moment they had been waiting for.

Spot lights began dancing in front of the locker room doors while an upbeat song played. "Ladies and gentleman, students of East High," the MC for the night's voice boomed, "welcome to Midnight Madness!"

Screams and applause went up among the crowd.

"Are you ready to meet this year's future champions?"

The fans roared their response.

"Then I give you your East High Wildcats!"

The locker room doors burst open. Max and Reed led the team out into the gym at a steady jog. They were wearing their new warm-ups. They group split into two as they reached the benches. Every guy bounced in nervous-excitement, feeding off the energy around them. Tonight was definitely going to be a good game.

The MC introduced the divided team. They had been split for the scrimmage into Red and White. He started with the White team, led by Max Danforth. The Red team was led by Reed. The crowd bellowed for him the second his name was announced. Everyone was hoping he would be named team captain tonight, everyone except Max of course.

"Without further adieu, I give you all our new coach. He led the Wildcats to back-to-back championships as team captain for two consecutive years. I'm sure you all know who I'm talking about. Let's give it up for Troy Bolton!!!"

The roar of the crowd was deafening as Troy entered the gym. He wanted to clasp his hands over his ears to protect his hearing, but then he remembered the cheering was a compliment. Obviously all of East High had faith in him. He was able to make brief eye contact with Sharpay when the light flashed over the bleachers. She blew him a kiss for good luck from her position directly behind the "home" team. Jason and Kaci were also sitting with her.

Troy made his way to where the MC was broadcasting. He took the microphone that was offered to him and made his way to center court. He took a deep breath before bringing the mike to his mouth. "Thank you all for coming tonight. I'm sure all of you are as anxious as the team for tonight's game. And I promise you it will be getting underway very soon, but first I have a few announcements to make. I think everyone is on the edge of their seat to find out who team captain is. It's been a very tough decision. There are many boys on this team who possess excellent leadership qualities, but one has stood out among the rest since day one. This individual has began several practices on his own without being told, motivates his team mates, and has already earned their respect as a leader. I'm pleased to introduce you to this year's team captain, Reed Douglas!"

Reed felt a huge rush as he joined Coach Bolton at center court. He shook Troy's hand, gave the crowd a brief wave and was about to make his way back to the bench when Troy grabbed his shoulder and pulled him back. He gave Troy a confused look, but Troy didn't respond. He just spoke into the microphone.

"Now I'd like our captain to tell you a little about the fundraiser our team will be hosting on January 2. Reed?" Troy handed off the microphone.

Reed cleared his throat nervously. Butterflies filled his stomach as he got ready to address the packed gym. Gazing into the crowd, his eyes found Shayne's. The reassuring nod she gave him was all it took to calm his nerves. "Well, we've decided to change things up a bit. In order to raise some money for the team, we're going to have another red and white game but with the alumni." He paused to let the idea sink in. "Now this won't be your typical alumni vs. the current team game. No, the alumni are going to play with us. So what do you guys say?" He let the crowd cheer while he made his way back to his spot on the bench.

Troy took over again. "Alright, that's all we have. Let's get this game started!" He returned the microphone to the table before taking his position between the two teams. All the boys gathered around him in a semi-circle. "Ok guys, go out there and just have fun. This isn't a real game. It's just a chance to show off your skills so go do it!"

Max took a step forward towards the middle of the half circle. "What team?" he screamed at the top of his lungs.

"WILDCATS!"

"WHAT TEAM?"

"WILDCATS!"

"WILDCATS!!"

"GET YOUR HEAD IN THE GAME!"

The referee blew his whistle for both starting lines to take the court. Max and Reed took their positions for the tip off.

"Ready to lose, captain?" Max sneered.

"Not today, Danforth," Reed replied calmly.

"On my whistle then." The ref held the ball between the two boys. He simultaneously blew his whistle and threw the ball in the air.

Jumping for the ball, Reed managed to bring his hand in contact with it first. He smacked it towards Mike Anderson, a junior. However, as he came down, he didn't pay attention to how Max was turning his body, resulting in a collision that sent Reed to the ground.


Well that's it for now!! We'll have to find out what happens to Reed in the next chapter!! I know I'm evil with the cliffhanger ending…sorry!!

Anyways I just want to say that is chapter is dedicated to my best friend and proofreader as a late birthday present!!!

Again thanks to all who reviewed!! Totally appreciate it!!! Let me know what you think of this chapter!!