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Chapter 72: The Rival's Challenge
last update2025-08-03 19:56:44

The St. Aldric’s locker room was alive with the pre match chaos the slap of cleats against tile, the sharp scent of sweat and liniment, and the low murmur of nervous energy. Kael Alden Bell stood off to the side, methodically tightening the laces on his boots, his mind focusing on the game ahead. The pressure wasn’t just about the score this time. It was something more personal.

Across the room, Jared leaned casually against a row of lockers, watching Kael with a look that was equal parts skepticism and something deeper it was resentment. Jared had been the team’s heart for years, a fiery striker whose raw talent and grit made him a natural leader. But ever since Kael’s arrival, things had shifted. The quiet boy with a famous name and enough resources to buy private training was now the captain.

Jared’s eyes flicked to Kael again, a storm brewing behind his gaze.

As Kael rose, pulling on his jersey, Jared stepped forward, breaking the room’s buzz like a crack of thunder. “So, Alden
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