Wonderwall • ℍ𝕒𝕖𝕤𝕠𝕠

𝟚𝟜

———->3 days later———->

"JONGSUKKK! LET'S GOOO....." echoed one of the teammates as they sprinted towards the soccer goal. JongSuk dashed with determination, skillfully maneuvering the ball with precise footwork. Dodging and weaving past each opposing defender, he approached the goalkeeper who stood tall, poised to thwart any attempts. With beads of sweat trickling down his face, JongSuk focused intently, his breaths labored and rapid as he surveyed the field ahead.

"I won't let this chance slip away!" JongSuk whispered to himself, determination in his eyes as he unleashed a powerful kick, sending the ball soaring past the goalkeeper and into the net.

"GOOAAALLLLLL!" The crowd erupted in cheers as JongSuk's team rushed to congratulate him at the goal post. A beaming smile spread across JongSuk's face, a happiness he hadn't felt in years. Surrounded by teammates who truly cared for him, he realized that he was part of something special, a bond he never thought he would find.

"Well, would you look at that... they're cheering like it's a real game! How delightful... That's the spirit!" chuckled the coach, glancing at the other team's coaches who were grinning at the spectacle.

"He's truly the standout player on our team! Who would've guessed!" remarked the other coach, his eyes fixed on the field with a proud smile. The coaches shared in the joy and camaraderie of the moment, reveling in the children's excitement. Then, one coach raised his whistle to his lips and blew sharply to gather everyone's attention.

"COME ON IN, BOYS!" the coach called out, beckoning them to gather around. The players swiftly complied, forming a tight circle around their mentor.

"Great work today! I've noticed some real improvement, and I'm proud of each and every one of you. But remember, it's not just about practice on the field. I need you to stay focused and committed to your diet and fitness routines. We're gearing up to face the reigning champions this weekend, and to beat the best, we need to be at our absolute best!" The coach's words resonated with determination and a hint of challenge, igniting a fire in the team's eyes as they prepared to rise to the occasion.

"And that will only be achievable if we stay united as a team and play for the team! It's all about the team, not any individual player, but the entire team! Clear?" he emphasized, looking at each player for affirmation. The response from the boys was lackluster, not reflecting the energy he was looking for.

"I ASKED...DO YOU UNDERSTAND, BLUE RANGERS?" he boomed, demanding a stronger response. The boys roared back with full force, their voices echoing with determination and unity.

"UNDERSTOOODDDD, COACH KHAN!!" the team cheered, clapping enthusiastically in response to the coach's directives.

"Now, is everyone on board? The bus for our trip to Rochester City departs tomorrow morning at 8 am sharp! I expect all of you here by 7:30 for check-ins! Clear?" Coach Khan reiterated, meeting each player's gaze to ensure they understood the importance of punctuality and readiness for the upcoming journey.

"Yes, Coach Khan!" the boys chorused in response.

"Great job today, everyone! Practice is wrapped up for the day," Coach Khan announced with a warm smile. The boys beamed back, dispersing to head towards the showers inside the facility. Amidst the bustle, some chatted animatedly, while others sang club chants joyfully as they showered. JongSuk relished every moment with his newfound friends from the football team. After freshening up, he grabbed his sports bag and exited the building, accompanied by a couple of teammates, ready for the next adventure on their football journey.

Yet, JongSuk's gaze fell upon a familiar face, someone he had encountered several times recently. Despite the desire to approach this individual, JongSuk hesitated, feeling a pang of embarrassment for his past behavior. He reflected on how he had treated this person disrespectfully at school, now recognizing his own shortcomings as one of his former students.