chapter 13

The Big Game*

I stood outside, my heart racing with excitement and nerves. "Don't worry, kiddo, you've got this," Dad said reassuringly.

"What if we lose, Dad?" I asked.

"You won't," he replied confidently. "I believe in you and your team."

I hugged him tightly. "Thanks, Dad. I love you."

"I love you too, kiddo," he said, smiling.

As I walked onto the football field, the roar of the crowd hit me. Emily grasped my arm. "Ready for this?"

"I was born ready," I replied, grinning.

Liam approached us, his eyes locked on mine. "Nervous?" he asked.

"A little," I admitted.

Anna appeared, her eyes flashing with malice. "Liam, can I talk to you?"

Liam's expression turned cold. "What do you want, Anna?"

Anna's voice dripped with sweetness. "I came to apologize. I love you, Liam."

Liam's face twisted in disgust. "You cheated on me with my best friend. That's not love."

The referee interrupted, calling the game to order.

As the match began, Sattorn's team seemed to anticipate our every move. "3-0, what's going on?" Emily asked, concerned.

"Don't worry, we can still win," I reassured her.

During the break, I spotted Alex studying our strategy book. "How did you get this?" I demanded.

Alex smirked. "Your coach wasn't careful enough."

I tried to retrieve the book, but it tore in half. "Good luck with that," Alex sneered.

Josh called out, "We need to re-strategize."

"I have an idea," Josh said, gathering us around.

The referee called the game back to order.

With renewed determination, we dominated the second half. Joshua passed me the ball, and I scored.

"3-2," Emily shouted.

Liam scored the equalizing goal. "3-3!"

The crowd erupted as Chloe led the cheerleaders in a rousing chant.

In the final minutes, Josh scored the winning goal.

The team rushed together, hugging in triumph. "We did it!" we chorused.

Anna approached, her face twisted. "Liam, I—"

Liam cut her off. "It's over, Anna. I don't want you."

Alex appeared, shocked. "You broke up with me for him?"

Anna's eyes widened, stunned.

"To be continued..."