Gabriel frost was the kind of man who didn't like running away from responsibility.
when his daughter and her husband had died. he'd been hurt.
it was like a scar in his soul.especially the day they buried them.
the priest advised him to take it easy.this he'd done for the next couple weeks before he had taken a job as a security man.
he'd worked for five years and being laid off with pension benefits.
he made sure to pay for the house rent ahead of time.so he wouldn't be affected later on.
he often did his shopping at lam light or indigo street. he attended church at bells garden.
rev ramos.
the priest who owned the church was his close friend since he was young.
his daughter.
Mary.
had yet to marry or even give birth to Josh. it was just the two of them.
they lived at lake lines.the underground train station was still being built and the council was just being established.
the government in olive City had gave the town of Torino free reign to establish its own rules. as suggested by the people of the town.it started during 19th century.olive City had ruled over the smaller towns since the 18th century.christianity had not spread wide to different regions in west lakers.the people worshiped gods made of iron and bronze.
Gabriel remembered one of them. It is still present in the town.
at the middle of blue lane and lam light.separating them like a boundary.a statue of a man with horns.popularly known as the horned man.they said he lived at purgatory.
he was worshiped by the people and they were made to believe that he granted wishes if they gave him blood as sacrifice.
this was what the people did until the missionaries came at the 20th century.
Gabriel had let go of the old ways and had accepted the gospel of Christ.
rev ramos had been the one who brought him to bells garden.it was at indigo street.
when Mary and her husband had died.he was one of those people who supported him.
they had both left josh in his care and he needed to survive.so the little boy could also survive.
Gabriel and rev ramos were both seated at the front row seat.
in the church.
nobody was around.it was just the two of them. the lights were on and the standing fan at the left corner was on. it blew with such speed that it didn't make any noise while turning around.
"how's your boy?reverend ramos asked.
"I haven't seen him in a while."
"yeah."
"he's in school."Gabriel looked at his watch.
"he's supposed to be going home by now."
"what about you? reverend Ramos asked.
"I was surprised to see your call."
"I just wanted to check in."
"I was at home."
"reading the paper."
"the news."
"I have to confess."
"It's something else."
"yeah."
"true."
"the death rate."
"gang members fighting each other."
"drugs everywhere."
"yeah."
"a lot of teenagers are into them."
"would you blame them?
"the council members aren't working hard enough to seal the tunnels."
"are they?
"more Police officers get killed."
"it isn't thier fault Gabriel."
"it's the struggle for power."
"sure it is."said Gabriel.
he sighed.
"how's the church?Gabriel asked.
reverend Ramos looked at him with a calm expression on his face.
"we are the church."
"both of us."
"right here."
"without us."
"they is no church."
"true."
"can't lie about that."
"of course."
they began to laugh.
(Josh Santos.pov.sixteen years ago)
same day.
Mr divine Clark had ended math class before the bell was rung.
the students began to exit thier classroom.they were walkkng down the stairscase.then to the school compound.
the black entrance gate was open.
I stood outside the school building.
I was watching the students.
I avoided Amanda during class after lunch break.
the deal with Levi still stands and the game was to start at 8pm in the evening.
he had made arrangement for the school to be open and not locked.
I was waiting for Charlie and Vanessa.
they advised that I should come with them. to chill at their place before the game started.I didn't bother saying no because I had noting to do at home.
they was no cocaine.only weed and i didn't feel like smoking. we had a game to win.
charlie and Vanessa came out from the building.they climbed down from the staircase and Charlie gestured for me to follow. we were walking toward the parking space were Charles jeep was parked.
he pressed the key and the black jeep came on.
Vanessa went to the back seat.
she opened the door and went into the jeep.
"take the front seat."said Charlie.
I went toward the front passenger seat and opened the door.we both entered into the car.
he put the keys into the ignition and started the engine before revising out of the parking space.i could see students staring at us as we drove by.
the news had spread.they would all be coming to watch the match.
it was silent as we drove on the road.
in the jeep.
Vanessa was busy with her phone and Charlie was busy focused on driving while i was thinking.
I was kinda nervous too.
I wasn't a great fan of sports.
I wasn't in any team.nor did i participate in the games or training.
I tried to play football at eight grade but had quit after getting one or two injuries. basketball was also fun but I didn't have the stamina to stick to it. I wasn't that tall and fit.like the other boys.
rugby was the worse.
I didn't trust my speed.I was always hit down during training.
Charles team.the blazing bulls was the substitute and the tigers were the leading and representing team.charles team could never represent.
their team could not beat the tigers in any official match.Levi always had the upper hand with his team and Charlie seemed to have accepted this.
but something had changed.he'd been annoyed or tested.I don't know.for accepting Levi's deal. his reputation and that of his team were at stake. plus.if he losed.he wouldn't be watching the rematch against the rhinos.
I would get to really avoid Amanda. I was a loser to begin with. I didn't know why she liked me and it was too risky to bear.
I sighed.
"so what's your plan charlie?I asked.
"tell me you have a plan?
"no plan buddy."
"we simply play to win."
"my boys are ready."
"I hope you are."
"you ain't gat to be pressured buddy."
"It's just a game."
"oh really."
"are you okay with losing Everytime?
charlie stared at me.
"well I don't plan on losing Josh Santos."
the car drove past the straight road which was in sight.beneath the ground.i could hear the train passing by.the ground vibrated and the train alarm sounded.
"you love her."
"don't you?
I looked at him.i was caught unaware by the question.
I reflected for a while.she had done noting wrong. I guess it was just my insecurities and anger issues.I tend to push people away too.
"I just don't want any trouble."i said.
"well trouble found you."
"so better man up Santos."
charlie took a bend to the left side of the road.passing by gas stations.lam light street came in view. a sign board was hanging on top of the pole were a traffic light was stationed.the lights suddenly turned red and all the cars stoped.they were other cars behind.
I could see it from the side mirror.
my mind flashed toward Amanda.she had no emotions on her.her face was gloomy when I saw her in class after lunch break and for some reason.I did not bother to check on her.this was for the best.giving her space while I figured out how to go about with this problem Levi had started.
the lights turned green and charlie hit the accelerator and the car began to move forward.
we passed the sign board and entered into lam light street.
I could see houses and company buildings around.
they was the smalls enterprise.it is owned by Diego's family.his father owned a fashion business. they sold clothes and shoes.
we passed by daily check.the hospital where grand pa had worked as a security officer.for five years.
it is owned by the flickers.Abel's dad and they was the butch factory.
Charlies dad had a couple factories around these corners.
they owned and sold vehicles here.
Alberto butch was one of the council members in Torino.he was in charge of transportation.
charlie kept on driving. he parked by the corner side were a house painted with white colour paint was built.
the lawn was well trimmed and the building was made of wood.
I had not seen these type of building in a while.the ones mostly popular were the bricks and stone type.
"is this your house?I asked.
"yeah."
"our little house."
"you like?
"yah."I nodded.
ours was made of brick and stone. just like the others in town.
Vanessa came down and closed the door before walking into the lawn.she was focused on her phone.
I followed behind charlie as he climbed into the front porch.
Vanessa was already inside.charlie opened the door for me to go in.
I walked past the porch.
then into the living room.
the curtains were open and the furnitures were arranged in a simple manner.
I saw the fridge near thier flat screen tv.
the space was quite big for a living room.
"have a seat."said Charlie.
"thanks."I said.
the couches were wrapped with white materials and leather.
on the wall was a separate picture of charlie and Vanessa.they were not so cheerful.
I smiled
it was my first time visiting.
they were not close in school and Charlie was one of those withdrawn kids.
he liked his own space.
he was quiet and calm.popular.just like his sister.
Vanessa.
levi was also popular
he was a jerk and they were not.
charlie walked toward me with a tray in his hand. he placed it on the table. a can of coca-cola drink and two hot dogs could be seen on the tray.
"eat up."he ordered and walked away
back to were he come from.
into a door at the left corner.
it appeared to be a kitchen.
I could hear the sound of plates and spoons.
I began to eat.I was quite hungry.
charlie came out from the kitchen with a drink.
he opened it and began to drink.
a hot dog was in his other hand.he settled down at the opposite side of the chair and began to eat.
"how's it?he asked.
"good."
"thank you."
"sure."
"you need your strength buddy."
"eat up."
"what about the others? I asked.
"the team."
"they are getting ready too."said Charlie. he took another bite from the hotdog.
"we gonna have to chill out here before evening time."
Vanessa walked into the living room.she was still focused on her phone.
"you guys better not lose."
"because am coming to watch."
she said and walked into the kitchen.
/present time/
Fred had fallen asleep on the hospital chair.it was positioned near the wall.
he woke up to see white lights shinning on his face.
he flinched and looked away. it hurt his eye balls. he looked at the double door.it was still closed.he wondered how onswart was doing.he wondered how the others were doing.those who had been admitted.
he stared at his watch.it was 8:30pm and he was damn tired.
he brought out his phone. they were no calls or text from anyone. he needed to report to the station.
he'd fallen asleep.not bothering to let himself be treated by the nurses who took the others in.
Fred stood up from the chair and straightened his shirt.
the door suddenly opened and he saw a black skinned nurse.
"hey."he said and raised his left hand to get her attention.
"how is he?
"he's fine."
"the bullet has been removed already and he's resting."
"can I go see him."
"sure "she nodded.
"room 12."
she said and walked away.
Fred exhaled before walking toward the door and then going into the room.
the other side was filled with bright lights.
they were on the celling. other rooms were around. number tags were on the doors.
room 12 came in sight and he quickly grabbed the door knob and opened it.
onswart lay on the bed.it was positioned for him to rest.he sat up on the bed.
his left shoulder was bandaged and drip was attached to his left hand.
"hey."
"how's the arm? asked Fred.
onswart had a gloomy countenance on his face.
"fucking hurts man."
"I can not move."
"yeah."
"you got hit badly."
"what about the target?he asked.
"he's dead."replied fred.
"gat shot by a sniper."
"damn."exclaimed onswart.his right hand turned into a fist.
"i know "
"Its fucked."
"i think they are in this together." said fred.
"lobos odini."
"zero."
"the other gang members."
"what do you mean? asked onswart. he was confused and angry.
"it's all about control for some of them."
"revenge or money."
"they slowly killing each other and we are just pawns in their little chess game."
"we can't seat down and do noting now."
"can we?
"no."
"we can't."
"but you have to rest."
"I can't." said onswart.
"your daughter needs you alive onswart."
"think about that."
"this can wait."
"am here."
"you need to stay with her here."
"so."
"what you gonna do Fred?
Fred shook his head.
"I don't really know but I plan to report back to the station."
"chief is waiting."
"sure he is."
"he must have seen the news already."
"yeah."said fred.
"we need them to go."
"it's not safe with them in town anymore."
"yeah."
"l'll figure something out with the others and get back to you."
"ok."said onswart.
Fred nodded and began to walk back to the door when onswart called him.
"hey Fred."
"thank you."
"for saving me out there."
"I may be dead right now."
"who knows."
"yeah."
"you gonna be okay."
"just hang in there."he said and exited the room.
Josh Santos pov/same day/
it was evening now.the sun had began to set for the day and clouds could be seen hovering around in the sky.the houses at lam light street were either of block or brick.theirs was the only wooden house.
it was made by his father.
for them to stay while he was away.
their mother had left him before Vanessa was born and she had left him with Charlie.years later.she had given birth and she'd refused to let him know. however. he found out.
he'd proposed to her that they be a family again. but then. she was seeing another man.
this displeased him and he had sued her.they went to the court house.
the judge had declared that the girl be with the father due to the fact that he was the head and the father.
their mother had lost the case and Vanessa came back to his brother. that was the last day they had heard from their mother.
she'd traveled out of town with her fiance.
I was sleeping on the couch when I felt a slight tap on my face.
"hey Josh."
"hey."
I opened my eyes to see charlie and Vanessa staring at me.
"we gat to be going."said Vanessa. she walked past charlie.
then to the door.
I stood up and looked at the clock on the wall.it was 7:35pm.
"damn."I said.
"it's evening already."
"yeah."
"come on."
"we gat to be in school by eight."
I followed behind charlie who had his black bag on his shoulder.
I quickly took mine.I had forgotten mine.I had slept off after eating.
we both stepped into the porch and I could see Vanessa at the back seat of the jeep.she was still focused on her phone.
it appeared that they had both changed clothes and I was still wearing my t shirt and jean. I wished I had taken my bath before going back to school.charlie was already at the lawn.he was walking toward his jeep.he was whistling.
"come josh."
"we gonna be late."said Charlie.he opened the driver's seat door.He went into his car and closed the door.
I quickly walked down the stair case and into the lawn.
then to the front passenger seat.
I opened the door and entered into the jeep.
charlie started the engine and drove into the road.
"where are the others?I asked.
"waiting."said Vanessa.
"you didn't bother taking your bath?
"no."
"I forgot."I smelt my armpit.
"do I stink?
"yeah."
"you do."she said and rolled her eyes before returning her attention to her phone.
we were outside lam light street now and in a two way lane.
ahead.
was the huge Statue of a man with horns.
I kept staring at it.
it was as if it wasn't there the first time we had come in.
i often wondered if this gods existed.
where ever they were.if they knew people made images of them and worshiped them.
this one was known to grant wishes.
I glanced at it as the car turned rightwards.
into the other lane where the underground train station was beneath.I would love noting more than to wish that we won this game against Levi and his team mates.
charlie needed a win and so did I.
I didn't want to let Amanda down.even tho it was just a game.
everyone was calm.I wasn't tho.I was dirty and some what tensed.it was beacuse of the upcoming event. everyone would be coming to watch.
the tigers were the ones involved and Levi loved to flaunt himself and his team mates.
the jeep drove into another lane on the road and then to another straight road.
brevely hills street came in sight as we drove along the straight road.
Charlie steered the wheel and the jeep turned leftward.
into the street.
we past by the sign board which had the name of the street on it.
the jeep kept moving on the straight road.
I could see my house.
the jeep drove by and I couldn't help but to stare at the building.
perhaps he wasn't at home.I thought.
i would have loved to be at home right now. in my room.doing something else with my time.than going to play this game but fate would have it differently.
we continued to move down the road with full speed.
charlie was focused on the road.he had a frown on his face.I knew this was personal for him. just like it was for myself.Levi had made it so.
he always wanted to rule and dominate over everyone in the school and no one had been able to surpass his position.
being the only son of the council woman and her family.
being the alpha at the school games and competition. he was smart and well built.
the kind of guy who girls loved to drool over. that was Levi.he was wealthy too.to top it off.
charlie was gonna try his luck today and so was I.
students could be seen walking toward holy high.it was just ahead.
the gate was open and they were going into the compound.
charlie pressed the horn and it sounded.
this signaled the students to clear the way.
the jeep went toward the parking space which was filled with cars and bikes.
I came down while glancing around.it would seem that more people had come to watch.
"looks like this is gonna be a show."I said and stared at charlie.
"yeah."he came down and closed the door.
he began to walk away from the parking space and I followed him from behind.
I could see the other students staring at us.
i looked back
to see Vanessa coming down from the jeep.
"leave her."
"she'll catch up." charlie said and started to climb the staircase.
I followed too.
we passed the door and entered into a huge passage way which had different direction to follow. left.right and straight ahead.
charlie kept walking straight ahead.
lockers were on both sides of the wall.he took a bend to the left and continued down the path.
we both continued to walk down this side of the building. we climbed down from the staircase.
we came upon another room.it was filled with students who appeared to be hyped up as they walked around.
at my leftward direction was a door. Past it.
was the boys locker room.it was filled with boys. at the right direction was an open space.the field could be seen here.
the crowd seemed to be going this way.
charlie was already walking toward the boys locker room.
I followed him and removed my bag from my back. the room was large and was filled with shelf's which stood tall.lockers were at the corner.same with chairs.
the boys inside were more than ten.I could recognize some while I couldn't recognize some.
the door closed behind me and I watched as charlie brought down his bag from his shoulder.
"alright boys."
"get dressed."
"it's show time."
charlie tossed me a t shirt and shorts.
they were blue and red in colour.uniforms for thier team.
the other boys had began to change in their respective lockers.
I walked toward a corner.among the shelf's and began to pull my t shirt and trouser.
I wore the uniforms and put my clothes inside my bag.
charlie walked toward me with a black sports sneakers and socks in hand.
"you're gonna need these."he said and put them into one of the space on the shelf.
I looked at my shoes.the shoes I wore were not for sport.I couldn't use it in the field.
"thanks."I said.
"sure."charlie nodded and walked away.he was already dressed and so were the others.
I quickly put on the socks and sneakers.I picked mine up and put it on the shelf.
along with my bag.
we all began to exit the room.
they were 15 of us in total.
all boys.
charlie looked nervous as he walked toward the field.we came out and I could see everywhere crowded with students who'd come to watch the game.
the rugby field usually consisted of two huge Goal post.it was quite different from that of the football goal post.
I didn't know the rules that much but I understood how it was played.
charlie had tried to put me through back then.
our team began to settle down at the first half of the Field.we were all taking our positions.I was at the left side of the Field. at the 22 mile line.near the crowd of students who sat on the chairs which were arranged above ground. On the stand
I looked around.hoping to see Amanda.
I was distracted by the sudden cheer from the crowd.the tigers were dressed in their yellow and white uniforms.they were coming into the field.
Levi and his team members seemed to be in a good mood.
"we love the tigers."yelled a group of girls.
they held thier flags and posters in the air.
they quickly went to the other side of the field. a middle aged man in referee unform was standing at the middle of the field. he had a whistle in his mouth.
charlie and two other boys were at the front. Levi.Diego and another of their team mate were present too.
the referee threw a coin in the air and caught it with his right hand.
he picked the ball which was on the ground and threw it toward charlie.
then he blew the whistle.
our team members began to run into our opponents side of the field.
charlie kicked the ball.I watched as the ball traveled further into their side of the field. the boys seemed to open up themselves for it's arrival.
it landed on one of our players hands and the chase began.
it was max.a boy in literature class.I had recognized him almost immediately.
he was running toward thier 22 mile line when one of the tigers came for him.
he quickly passed the ball to his team mate who was at his left side and he began to carry the ball forward.past the line.
he was advancing toward the try line.
the player with the ball quickly passed the ball to his team mate at his right side.
diverting the attention of the tiger players.
but then. three defenders were already waiting.
they quickly rushed toward him and the ball was passed to charlie who was at the right end of the try line.
without wasting time.charlie threw the ball toward the goal and it flew past the middle of the two iron poles.
the referee quickly blew the whistle and the score board buzzed.five points appeared on the side of the blazing bulls and the crowd began to cheer.
charlie and the others began to retreat back to our side of the field.
another ball was tossed toward charlie who stood at the halfway line.
the whistle sounded and the players began to run forward again.
I followed them this time.
charlie kicked the ball forward and it began to travel.
the tiger's were on high alert. it fell on one of their players possession.
Garfield.
one of Levi team member.
he quickly tossed the ball with both hands toward his team mate at his right side and he tossed it backward to their player who was behind.
before I could get to him.he'd tossed it toward thier teammate by the left side.and so it went until it went to Levi's hands.
he crossed into our side of the Field and began to make a run for it.
he was quite fast. three boys from our team pursued him from behind.
but none of them could stop him.
he quickly tossed the ball to his left side direction and his team member was right in time to catch the ball.
he tossed it back to Levi.he ran ahead. past the 22 mile line. he continued to run. without any opposition.
we all watched in anticipation.
those at the back line.as he ran toward the line with full speed. running past the try line and throwing the ball into the goal as he jumped up.
the score board buzzed and five points appeared on thier side.
they began to advance toward their side of the field and so did we.
the referee passed the ball toward them. this time.
the ball was thrown to Markus and he bent down in formation while Levi and his other team mates were behind.
charlie and max took formation too.waiting for the referee to blow the whistle and at the sound of it.
the ball was tossed backward toward Levi.he passed it to kelvin.
charlie ran toward him.
hoping to distract him. the ball was tossed to the left.
to their team member.
I ran toward him.
but he kept on running leftward and passing by the 22 mile line.
we all began to advance backward.
to protect our goal.
four blazing bulls players ran behind the tiger player. he was with the ball. two came from front.
the tiger player quickly passed the ball to the right side and Levi was in possession of the ball again.
at the end of the try line.
before anyone could get close to him.
he'd let it go and the ball was sent flying past the goal post.
the score buzzed again and their points turned to ten. they quickly began to advance backward.
to their side of the field.
the crowd was already cheering and clapping.
the referee blew his whistle and the score disappeared from the board.
it was time for a break.
we all began to walk outside the field.
toward our separate corners.
I was already sweating and so was charlie.he was not smiling.unlike Levi who seemed to be happy.
it was ten minutes already and we were to take a break before the game resumed.
"good game guys."said Charlie. he bent down to pick a can water from the plastic crate.it was on the ground.
"we've gat to strike fast before the game ends."
"we only have two rounds."
charlie made the sign with his left hand fingers.
we understood the risks.
I looked around.
in search of Amanda. I couldn't find her.
I saw summer.
she was busy blushing and flirting with Levi Who was at the other side of the Field. on the stair way stand were chairs were arranged.
her 4g friends were behind her but Amanda was not in sight.I sighed.
"hey."
"Santos."said Charlie.
"be focused."
I nodded and just then.the referee blew the whistle and the score on the board came back on.
it was dark now and the moon was out in the sky.
we were made to change sides on the field and Levi and his team were already moving.we walked past each other.each team players were staring at each other.
each team settled on their side of the field.
the ball was given to Levi's team. by the referee.he blew the whistle.
Levi was with the ball. he waited for a while before kicking the ball into the air.
it went into our side of the field and one of their players caught the ball with his hands.
it was Diego who had caught the ball at the 10mile line position.
before he could turn around to run. august jabbed him from the front and they both fell to the ground.
the referee blew the whistle and brought out a yellow card from his pocket.
the crowd began to boo at our player.
it was August and he was made to leave the game for ten minutes.
I watched as he walked away.
the ball was given to Levi. he was still at the halfway line. he bent down in formation while his team members returned back to take position.
Antonio was behind Levi as he held the ball and as soon as the referee blew the whistle.
Levi passed it backward to him and he began to run leftward before tossing the ball toward his team mate who was at his left side.
Steven was in possession of the ball.he ran into our side of the field.
forcing his way past two of our team mates who tried to stop him at the 10mile line. he quickly tossed it to the right side and it fell on markus hands.
he tossed it with both hands. toward another of his team mate who was at his left side.
before any one could get to him.
kelvin was now in possession of the ball and he was running straight ahead. toward my direction.
he passed me with full speed and kept on running toward the 22mile line.
i followed behind him. as fast as i could.
charlie and three other of our team members went straight for him and surrounded his view but he quickly tossed it to Levi who was at his right side.
Levi ran past the 22mile line and began to run toward the try line.
he was fast. no one could catch him as he ran past our defenders.they could hardly get a hold of him.
the crowd were already on thier feet.in anticipation of his end move.
Levi progressed toward the try line and threw the ball halfway.
it flew past the goal and past the dead ball line.
into the crowd.
they began to clap and cheer at the Goal.
Levi was happ. his team mates ran to meet him.
the score board buzzed and thier point turned to 15.
just then.the referee blew his whistle and the score disappeared from the board.the first half of the match had ended and we were losing.
"damn."I whispered.
we began to regroup as we walked out of the Field.
the tigers had a positive first half and were in high spirits.
we were quite dull. charlie wasn't smiling.he looked tired and sweaty. he walked toward our spot. at the corne of the field.
I sat down on the ground.
my spirit was down.
charlie walked toward my corner and sat down on the ground.
"this isn't going as planned." he said and brought the can of water to his mouth.
he drank it before throwing it away.he made a nervous sound and sighed.
"I know." I said and stared at the faces of our team members.
some of them were standing or talking to people at the stand were chairs were arranged. some sat down next to charlie and myself.
august. charlie and George.
I knew them since I was twelve.they had been around when the two past important matches with the other schools were played.
the blazing bulls were not that experienced like the tigers.theywere more equipped and perfectly trained.
they were faster.smarter and they had the brute ness to execute victory with thier accurate goals.
"we have to try."said George.
"sure." I nodded.
charlie stared at me and then looked away.he had a less confident look on his face.
"hey Charlie."I said and he stared back at me.
"you're good right?
"yeah."he nodded.
just then.the score board came back on with a buzz. the numbers immediately appeared. 15:5.
we all stared at it.
the rest of our players had began to regroup with us.
it was just a ten point different.i was sure the blazing bulls could bounce back from this.
the whistle was blown by the referee and everyone was up on thier feet and walking toward the main field.
we took our positions on the field and so did Levi and his team.
the referee handed the ball to Levi and he bent down.awaiting the referees signal to start.
his team mates were beside and behind him. behind the halfway line.
we stood at the other side
the whistle sounded and Levi quickly tossed it back to Diego who was behind him. we crossed into their box and Diego was already on the move. He tossed it toward his team mate at his left side.
he began to run straight ahead.passing the half way line.then into our side of the field.
two of our team players attacked him.by trying to hold him but he quickly tossed it to his right side where levi stood.
he caught it and began to run toward the 10mile line.
I was running toward him. i was beginning to run pass the line. my hands sliped by his shoulder as he bent down and began to run leftward.
he quickly tossed the ball to his team mate at his right side. three blazing bulls player came for him. from his front view.
Antonio passed by the 10mile line and was running forward.
charlie was on his trail but he quickly tossed it back to Levi who caught the ball and he was running again. with the ball. forcing his way through the blazing bulls players who tried to hold him.
the crowd began to cheer and clap as he passed the 22mile line and was now
at the try line. moving ahead with full speed.
"get him."
"get him."yelled charlie.
three opponents came for him and he quickly tossed it to Diego.he was at his right side.
Diego continued to move ahead and everyone diverted toward his direction.he was indeed fast.he dodged the opponents at his front.
I thought he would pass it back to Levi who was running behind.
at his left side.
but Diego ran straight to the end of the try line and threw the ball from his hand.
it flew at the rightward direction and passed the goal.
the crowd yelled in excitement. full of energy and screams. the score board buzzed and another five points was added to the tigers score.
"that's my boy." yelled Levi. he ran back to their side of the field.
as he passed.he stared at mewith an intimidating look on his face.
my left hand turned into a fist as I watched him. this was messed up and I knew that deep down.I stared at the board.20:5.
they were leading and still in possession of the ball.
we took our positions again.both teams were standing behind the halfway line.
the ball was handed over to Levi and the whistle was blown.his team began to run into our side of the field.
we rushed toward Levi and he kicked the ball.it began to travel and our team mates were already on the look out.
it was traveling rightward.
in our side of the field. it fell on Ben's hands.
he began to run toward their direction of the field.
three of the tiger players came for him and he tossed it to his right side.
august caught the ball and quickly passed it back to me.
I caught it and I quickly tossed it to matt. he was at my right side.
Matt began to run toward the halfway line and two tiger players were coming straight for him. he quickly tossed it to Charlie who was at his left side.
charlie caught the ball and crossed the halfway line and continued into their side of the field.four tiger players were following behind him and the race for survival began.
two defense player came from the front and Charlie tossed the ball toward Charles.he was at his left side.
Charles began the run toward the 10mile line.
he dodged the first opponent that came for him and another. by increasing his speed.
Charles passed the line and continued forward.
he passed the ball toward George who was at his left side and he kept on running.
he crossed the 22mile line without opposition from anyone and entered into the try line area.
a defense player came for him and he changed his direction before gaining balance and continuing forward.
they followed him but he let go of the ball and it went toward best.he was at his left side.
he quickly went forward and scored a Goal.
the score board buzzed and five points was added to ours.making it ten.
it was 20:10 now.
best hurried back to our side of the field and everyone was starting to take formation.
the ball was placed on Charlie's hands and as soon as the whistle sounded.
the team began to cross into their opponents zone.
I followed them too.
charlie kicked the ball and began to run after it with full speed.
it traveled leftward in the air and crossing the 10mile line and then it fell on our opponents hand.
Robert was with the ball. four of our players ganged up on him and he fell to the ground. he go of the ball.
I quickly ran forward and grabbed the ball from the ground.
I began to run with quite the speed.
I dodged the first opponent and tossed the ball toward max who was at my left corner side.he carried the ball forward and tossed it to Charlie who was at his right side.
he kept on moving till he past the 22mile line and Levi came straight for him in defense but he quickly passed it toward me. at his left corner where I opened up for him.
I took the ball and continued to move forward.to the try line.
without thinking.i threw the ball toward the goal as I came close to the end line and I watched as the ball passed the Goal.
the score board buzzed and the score line changed. 20:15.
the crowd began to cheer and clap.
"nice shot Santos."said steven.he ran past me to take formation.
Levi was going to take formation too.
I quickly ran toward the halfway line.
where our team was taking position.
"good job josh."said Charlie.
"get ready."
I quickly took position at the right corner of the halfway line.
the referee blew the whistle and we all ran toward our opponents side of the field.
they in turn began to fall back.awaiting the ball.it fell on Steven's hands. he quickly tossed it to his team mate at his left side.Garfield was about to move when three blazing bulls player rushed him down and the referee quickly blew the whistle.indicating a foul play.
Garfield was rolling on the ground.he was hurt. he held his stomach.
"what tha hell!said Levi.he came close with an angry countenance on his face.
"it's okay."said the referee.he came in between them.
"I think he's injured."
"hell yeah."
"he is."replied Levi.
"didn't you see that?
"replace him."said the referee.
he blew the whistle and the score board went off again.
a stretcher was brought out from a corner. in the building.
Garfield was placed on the stretcher and carried away from the field. the crowd looked down with displeasure. some of them were already booing at us.
"damn."I whispered.
this wasn't nice at all.
we were five points behind and this was the last half of the match.
i was starting to walk away from the field when I saw Amanda staring at me.
she smiled and I couldn't help but smile too.
Levi and his team were accompanying thier injured player away from the field.
"you guys don't have to be that brutal."she said.
"yeah."I began to scratch my head.
"we can't exactly lose now."
"can we?
"am sorry."
her expression changed.
"what."
"why?
"I shouldn't have avoided you."
"he said some words."i said.
"it's okay."she said.
"just do your best josh."
"am with you."
"thanks." I said and smiled.
"now's not the time to be acting funny."said Charlie.he was behind me.
I turned around and looked at him.
the remanining blazing bulls team were watching from where they sat down.
"you guys are gonna lose."yelled summer.she was with her friends.
"you always play dirty."
"damn you guys."
"losers."
she scoffed and began to walk away.
with her friends.
"that's not wrong."said Vanessa.she walked toward Amanda.
"you guys are struggling to keep up play."
"yeah."said Charlie.
"it's not our fault."
"then who?
"it's theirs."
"for being good."
Vanessa shook her head in a mocking manner.
the end of the ten minute break came and we were made to change sides again.
the tigers had regrouped with another additional player called Sam.
they had a serious look on their faces as they settled on thier side of the field.
the ball was given to Levi and as the referee blew the whistle.they began to run into our side of the field.
Levi kicked the ball and started to run too.
the ball traveled leftwar.it fell on Ramos hands and he quickly tossed it to his right side where George was at.
ben caught the ball.
he caught it and began to run toward the 10mile line.
he tossed it toward charlie who was at his left side. distracting the four tiger players that came for him. charlie crossed the halfway line with full speed. dodging the players that came for him. one by one.he suddenly tossed the ball to the left. where I ran beside him.i caught it and crossed the 10mile line of thier side of the field and continued to move ahead.
four of their players followed up on me from behind but I kept running till I entered thier try line.it was starting to get tensed as they pursued from behind.
now six in total. they was no way I was stopping now. the huge iron goal post was in front of me.
I could hear the cheering and clapping from the crowds.even my team mates.the footfalls on the ground as they stepped on it.
"Santos."
"santos."I could hear my name being called.
as soon as I came close to the end of the try line.I threw the ball toward the goal and it flew straight to the goal and passed the dead ball line.
the score board buzzed and the score changed to 20:20. it was equal now.
I smiled at the realization of this.
"yes." I whispered.
I was happy. I listened to the cheering and clapping.
"that's my brother."yelled charlie.
I started to run toward our side of the field.
we started to take formation again.so were the tigers.
they had twisted looks on their faces.
the ball was thrown to charlie and he bent down while watching max.he was behind him.
the whistlesounded and Charlie quickly tossed the ball back to him and he began to move leftward.
crossing the halfway line.
Levi came for him and he quickly tossed the ball to me.i was at his left side.
I was still running when one of the tigers came from behind and caught my left hand.I went backwards and his grip was loosened.
I tossed the ball toward charlie who was at my right side.
he caught it and crossed into the 22mile line.
two tiger players came for him. from his right corner and he quickly tossed it to max who opened up for him at his left side.
three players came from his front and blocked his view.Max dived forward with the ball and they jumped on him but he quickly let go of the ball and Ben picked it up without delay and continued toward the 22mile line. he ran past the two players at his right side.
Ben tossed it toward George who was at his right side and he quickly entered the try line.
the tigers came from behind. running to catch up with him but he wasn't stopping and neither were they.
he ran toward the left direction. where the Goal was in sight.fully open.
no one was in sight.
George jumped up and threw the ball toward the goal post.
the score board buzzed and another five points was added to our score.making it 20:25.
the crowd began to cheer.
George had a big smile on his face. the referee blew the whistle and the score board went off.
"yes."
"yes."
"yes."charlie said.
I stared at him and shook my head. I was smiling. we actually won the game.
I couldn't believe it.
I was so happy and relieved and dirty.
I wanted to bath as soon as possible.
Levi wasn't cocky as before.i watched as he shook the hands of his opponents.
the others did the same. without ill feelings.I noticed.
Levi walked toward charlie and they both shook hands.
"nice game."he said.
"thank you." replied charlie.
the crowd were clapping now.they seemed satisfied and we'd won the bet.
I was staring at the crowd.in search of Amanda. Levi walked toward me. he had a smug look on his face.
my countenance changed upon seeing him.
"you won."
"once."
"lucky you."
he stretched his hand and i took it.reluctant of his hand shake.
"wish you guys luck too."I said.
"on your big game."
he smirked and let go of my hand.
"we don't deal on luck Santos."
"you remember that."
he walked away. I was
quite confused at his words. we had put in the work to begin with.
the crowd was beginning to disappear into the building.Amanda was walking toward me and they both stared at each other.he went into the building.
"you guys actually did it."she said.
she came close and hugged me.
"good job." she whispered.i held her with my hands.i did not what to say.
she withdrew her self from me and held my hand.
"why don't I take you home."
"thanks." I said.
I looked at Vanessa and Charlie.they were standing together at the field.
they were smiling at me.
he made a thumps up with his left hand and I did same with my right hand.
I sighed andstared at Amanda. we both walked into the building.
it was filled and lit up with lights.students were making their way out of the building.
that was how the game ended.with the blazing bulls miraculous win.
Amanda had dropped me off at my house and she'd gone home.