chapter 11

: The Midfielder Search

Practice was underway to find Berry High's new midfielder.

"So, how's it going?" I asked Liam.

"Coach is about to start testing them," he replied.

First up was Natalie, but her pass to Joshua fell short.

"Sorry, Natalie, we need someone with a longer shot," Coach Jefferson said.

Stella impressed with a perfect pass, hitting the net.

"Good job, Stella!" Coach exclaimed.

However, Stella hesitated. "Sorry, Coach, but I can't join. I need to prioritize cheerleading."

Disappointed, Coach tested the remaining students, but none impressed.

"How's it looking, Coach?" I asked.

"It's not looking good. Stella showed promise, but she's not interested," Coach said bitterly.

"Don't worry, Coach, we'll find someone," I reassured.

During lunch, Liam, Joshua, and I brainstormed solutions.

"What are we going to do?" Liam asked.

"I don't know," Joshua replied.

But I refused to give up. "We can't let Sattorn win."

Just then, Alex and his friends strolled in, mocking our struggles.

"You're going down, Berry High!" Alex sneered.

Joshua stood firm. "Leave now, Sattorn."

As they left, I spotted Josh playing with a plastic ball.

"Wow, Josh, you're a natural!" I exclaimed.

"Football's not my thing," Josh insisted.

But I persisted, and Alex's taunts finally convinced Josh to join.

"Welcome to the team!" Joshua said, as we practiced together.

Coach Jefferson beamed. "You're our new midfielder."

That evening, Nora announced the upcoming pep rally.

"Get ready to showcase our school spirit!" she exclaimed.

As everyone dispersed, Emily shared her homecoming news.

"Henry asked me to the ball!" she said, beaming.

"Congratulations!" I replied.

Emily teased, "I know three guys eager to ask you."

Liam arrived at my doorstep, looking handsome.

"Amy, will you go to homecoming with me?" he asked, his eyes hopeful.

I gazed at him, my heart racing...

TO BE CONTINUED.