The Evil Inside (book 4 of Genesis 64)

Chapter 7 - soccer season

Mid-October 2012

The R.O.C.A. boys' soccer team makes it to the state championship for the first time since 2008 when Adonai, Mark Long, and Kevin Hawk were on the team. But, unlike the 2008 team, they lose the championship game by just one goal. Michael gets in their vehicle after the game and slams his door. Michael is frustrated and angry. "Arghh, we were so close!" he grumbles.

"I'm so, so sorry, honey-boy," Staci says soothingly.

"I thought we were really going to win the title this year," Michael says.

"It was a good game," Staci reminds him.

"Yea," Michael says in a dejected tone.

"It was!" Staci exclaims. "It was a good game and a very good season, dear."

"But, we should've won. We had a better team than four years ago!" Michael complains.

"Hmm...," Staci says, thinking.

"You don't think so?" Michael asks. "Zack's much better than Adonai was."

"Are you sure?" asks Staci.

"Of course!" Michael answers. "Zack has scored most of our goals this year and almost led the league in scoring. Adonai only scored a few goals."

"You want to know what differences I've noticed about the two of them." Staci asks.

Michael asks, "What?"

"Adonai always passed the ball and started the plays. He made the players around him, like you, look good. He got everyone involved and working together as a team. You kept getting better and better, as a team, because everyone wanted the best for the team," Staci explains.

Michael thinks then says, "Hmm, and Zach?"

"With Zack, the team revolves around him. The ball has to come to him, and he has to make each play," Staci points out. "It seems a little selfish of him. And if he has a bad day, like today, then the team suffers because of it."

Michael crosses his arms and says, "So? The result was the same. Both teams made it to the championship game."

"Just something to think about," Staci replies.