Veil of Ophelias

CHAPTER 1 : A Game of Many Players

"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the match of the season!"

The announcer's voice echoed across the stadium, filled with the electric tension of a rivalry that had spanned generations. It was a chilly autumn evening, but no one cared—the energy was palpable, buzzing with anticipation for the game between Stratford University and Harrington College. These two football teams had clashed so many times that each match felt like a war, with a history written in bruises and close calls.

"And now, for Stratford University, the man everyone's talking about: captain and star player, Adam Harper!"

The roar of the crowd was deafening as Adam Harper stepped onto the field, exuding calm, quiet confidence. He had been carrying Stratford's undefeated streak on his shoulders all season. Tonight wasn't just a game for him—it was another chapter in a legend he was still writing.

"Harper's leadership on the field has been flawless. Will tonight be the moment he cements his legacy? Or will Harrington's hungry defense finally bring his reign to an end?"

The opposing side, Harrington College, stood at the ready, eyes locked on Harper like predators eyeing prey. Among them was James Caldwell, Harrington's captain, known more for his heart than for his flashy plays. There was a certain respect between Harper and Caldwell—two leaders, two minds playing their own game long before the whistle even blew.

Harrington College Library , 8PM

Inside the library, Ophelia Arden sat with her legs stretched out across a table, casually flipping through a book she wasn't really reading. The library was mostly empty, save for her and a few other students who either didn't care about football or were hiding from the cold. Ophelia wasn't the type to get wrapped up in the excitement of a game like this. Not because she was a bookworm, but because she just didn't care enough to bother.

Next to her, Alyssa Hughes, her friend from the politics club, bounced anxiously in her seat, her eyes darting between her phone and Ophelia's calm expression.

"So, are you going to the game later?" Alyssa asked, finally breaking the silence. "I mean, everyone's talking about it."

Ophelia glanced up from her book, raising an eyebrow. "Do I look like I care?"

Alyssa laughed. "Yeah, okay, but for real, you're always right about this stuff. I was thinking about placing a bet, but I don't know which team to go for. Who are you betting on?"

Ophelia leaned back in her chair, her face unreadable as usual. "If I had to choose between betting my money or saving my relationship with James Caldwell, the captain of Harrington," she replied coolly, "I'd save my money."

Alyssa gasped, her eyes wide. "You think they're going to lose? But everyone says Harrington's defense is stronger this year."

"Everyone says a lot of things," Ophelia replied, her tone lazy but sharp. "But I'm not exactly dating him for his track record. Anyway, it's not like he listens to me when I tell him they don't stand a chance." She shrugged, her nonchalance almost infuriating. "But go ahead, place your bet. Maybe you'll get lucky."

Alyssa giggled, shaking her head in disbelief. "You're ruthless, you know that?"

Ophelia smirked, closing her book with a soft thud. "Just realistic."

Alyssa checked her phone, then stood up with a sigh. "Alright, well, I'm heading to the game. You're missing out, you know."

Ophelia waved her off. "Sure I am. Enjoy."