Page 61 of A Pretty Fixation

I’m breathing hard, drenched in sweat andraindrops. The drizzle only makes it more challenging when we’re all sliding inthe wet grass.

We’re down by a goal. I have no idea how much timeis left, but we need to score fast.

Like Alston, St. Andrew’s University is one of ourbiggest rivals. It’ll be a confidence boost to attain victory over them.

I watch Bobby on the sideline. Our midfielder isworking hard to hold the ball inside while avoiding a tackle.

My opponent is barely giving me any breathingroom. I sidestep and bolt around him, creating a small window for myself.

This is it.

It’s risky, but I take the chance and signal Bobbythat I’m open.

Our midfielder passes the ball smoothly, and Ihear the defender grunting at my back as I bolt towards his penalty area.

“Dammit,” he growls, fighting to tackle the ballfrom me.

I dust him off without a foul and take the shot.

Their goalkeeper lunges to the side, hollering ashe tries to block my attempt.

The ball sails past his fingers into the back ofthe net, drawing roars from our supporters.

“Yeah!” I shout, pumping my fists amid celebratingwith my teammates. We keep it brief and quicken back into the game.

Dante swipes the ball within seconds, making a runfor it down the middle.

My breathing stops as he goes for it.

I watch anxiously.

The ball peels over the goalkeeper.

More cheers explode in the air when it hits thenet.

“Hell yeah!” Dante yells.

We’re back ahead. All that’s left is to hold themoff.

Our defenses remain unwavering until the sound ofthe final whistle.

Elation bursts inside my chest.

Another win in the books.

The celebration ensues even as the drizzle turnsinto a downpour.

We uphold good sportsmanship and shake the handsof St. Andrew’s players.

“Hey, great game, man,” I say while I’m reachingto my opponent.

He ignores my hand; face scrunched up withdisgust. “You’re not as great as you think you are, Rosmond. You won’t win thenext one. You’re not making it to the finals.”

“Like hell, we won’t,” I throw back since he wantsto be fucking nasty. “Check my stats. I am that good. I’ll teach you a thing ortwo the next match.”

“Fuck you!” He inches forward as if he wants tofight.

I stand firm, ready to square up with the dick.

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