Despair or Resolve
Having immersed himself in the details of this football-centric world, Ash felt an itch to try out his newfound body. Retrieving a football from the cabinet, he approached his father with an eagerness that reflected the pulsating excitement within him.
"Hey Dad, can you take me to the public ground? I want to give this body a spin!" Ash exclaimed, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.
Mr. Rivera, understanding the fervor in his son's request, agreed without hesitation. Today being sunday was a good thing for Ash as he did not have to worry about his dad's job. Saying bye to the Mrs Rivera and assuring to her that they would take care, Ash and his father left their 2 BHK flat. Making way to the parking area, as they stepped outside, the sight of a worn-out bike triggered memories of a younger Ash, prompting a moment of reflection.
Lost in his thoughts, Ash's father's voice broke through the reverie. "Everything alright, champ?"
With a confident nod, Ash, feeling the texture of the football in his hands, hopped onto the bike and held onto his father. The engine roared to life, and they set off for the public ground just a block away. The wind in his hair and the rhythmic hum of a song, Ash felt an inexplicable joy.
As they approached the ground, Ash's emotions welled up. The tears that glistened in his eyes weren't just a result of the wind; they were a manifestation of the overwhelming joy he felt. He silently vowed to give his best in the upcoming selection and beyond, determined to make his parents proud.
Upon reaching the public ground, Mr. Rivera spotted Mr. Alberto and his son Scott. Seeing the adults engaging in a friendly conversation, Scott, noticing Ash, called out to him to join the game. Scott, now 8 years old, goes to Lakeside Academy and plays football for fun. The sunday being usually a day for father son bonding , Scott was still happy to see his neighbour, Ash.
"I'll warm up for 15 minutes and catch up with you, Scott!" Ash responded, a newfound confidence in his voice. Ash , aware of the importance of warm up and wanting to get basic understanding f his body started with light stretches.
Scott, curious and aware, decided to join Ash's stretching routine, finding it different. In the 15 minutes they did varius stretches and stared the jog to finish. After a light jog around the field, they were sufficiently warmed up and ready to engage in a friendly match.
The public ground became a canvas for the two young boys, their laughter and the rhythmic thud of the ball echoing in the air. As they played, Ash's commitment to excelling in football, not just for himself but for the pride of his parents, fueled his every move.
As the game progressed, Ash observed and noticed something he hadn't even considered before—his football talent in this new body was eerily similar to his previous life's. He wasn's nimble or fast enough. Nevertheless, relying on the knowledge and experience from his previous life, Ash showcased remarkable skills, managing to awe Scott and even the observing adults. But, he did not want to just play football, he wanted to become its king, the best. As they say, higher the expectations , higher the fall....
Unaware of Ash's almost depondent inner struggles, they praised his performance, expressing admiration for his skills on the field. Ash, now acclimated to the world,had to skillfully controll his emotions, assuming the demeanor of a shy kid receiving unexpected praise.
Then he heard it. "You were so good , Ash. You are a natural. You will clear the selections , no doubt." The joy in his father's voice seem to be a beacon of light in his dark thoughts. Thinking about his parents and the up and coming younger brother, his resolve to become the best furthered.
After the play concluded, Mr. Alberto, with a smile, turned to Ash. "Scott here is eight years old and lives in the same building. How about he helps you to and from the ground? It would be great for both of you. He would get a new friend and you won't have to disturb your parents for the daily play."
Ash, realizing the practicality of the suggestion, nodded with gratitude. The prospect of having a companion for the daily trip to the ground brought a sense of reassurance. Little did they know that behind the shy demeanor was a determined soul, navigating a world where the echoes of his past collided with the promise of a football-centric future.