Omega Kid

Disclaimer: I do not own any characters from the Kick-Ass comic or film written by Mark Millar, or any guest characters from other Kick-Ass fanfic's they are owned by their own writers and creators. However, original characters in Omega Kid belong to me.

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Chapter 14: Football Debut

Thursday 22nd July 2010

18:12

I stood by a canal, staring out into the distance as I watched the setting sun hanging right above the city skyline. It was a beautiful sight like the sky was on fire. I wouldn't have minded watching the scenery on my own terms. However, that wasn't the case. I couldn't turn around, not with the gun pressed against the back of my head. I felt the barrel trembling, making me worried that even if I complied I would be shot accidentally.

There was no one around to help me. My friends weren't going to be coming to my aid. I wasn't even in my Omega Kid costume. This Toxin had figured out my secret identity. It probably helped that we actually knew each other.

Just when I thought things couldn't get any worse, today decides to prove me wrong yet again. If I don't do something quickly, I might not live to see another day. I didn't want things to end this way, not after the day I've had, filled with so many regrets.

08:16

I don't think I spoke a word throughout school yesterday. Whenever people would try to ask me about my fight with Onder, I would just shrug and ignore them. I didn't want anything else to happen so I did what I do best, pretend I don't exist. I also think that the new bruises and cuts I mysteriously acquired scared anyone from getting too close to me. Even some of my teachers looked intimidated by me. I'd always believed I had the intimidation of a baby Panda. Although, Onder's missing tooth would have something else to say about that.

Home wasn't any less awkward. Jenna and I hardly spoke and she let me go about with my own business without a word. I didn't bother going on patrol that night. I was still licking my wounds from my royal rumble with Hellrider. Alex and Stephen had left me a couple of messages but I never got back with them. If I told them I got into a fight with another superhero, they'd never leave me alone. It was selfish of me. I knew that they would want to help like they have done, but I was too exhausted to deal with that. Today was my big day playing for the school team. I needed full concentration if I wanted to make a point and prove that I can do something right.

I thought a cold shower would help wake me up and get me ready. On the contrary, the feeling of water spraying on me clouded my mind with thoughts of Hellrider and I fighting in the rain. Thinking about that again made my skin crawl and my body ache. I quickly shut the water off and found myself panting. My body was shaking all over. The icy cold pricked right through to the bone.

''Thomas?'' I heard Jenna call out. ''Are you finished yet?''

I hesitated, wondering why she was finally addressing me now. ''I'm coming out now.''

''Okay, can we talk? I promise it'll only take a second.''

Was she still going to try to stop me joining the team? She had to have known that wasn't going work. I almost considered sneaking out to avoid that argument again. But when I remembered that argument and remembered how she broke down, I felt like a bastard for ever considering that option. I cleared my throat and stepped out of the shower. ''Yeah, I'm coming. Hold on.''

I quickly dried and dressed, as well as picking out what I thought would be good sports attire. It was just a plain white shirt and black shorts, the same I wore when Parkour training with Marquez. I never actually found the time to ask Chloe what I was supposed to wear. I grabbed my gear and threw it in my rucksack, having some trouble with fitting it in with my costume. I stared at it, comprehending for a solid minute whether I should leave it. This thing seemed to be bad luck wherever I took it.

I kept it for now and hurried downstairs to find Jenna in the kitchen, finishing her breakfast and fully dressed. ''What's up?'' I asked.

She turned to face me with a look filled with worry and fatigue. ''Are you sure you want to play today? No one will blame you if you don't feel up for it.''

At least she wasn't ordering me not to go, so that's a start. I nodded affirmatively. ''I'm sure. I can do this.''

I waited for the blockade. I waited for her to put her foot down again and say no. It never came. Instead, she slowly bobbed her head before reaching for something white on the counter. It was difficult to make out until she was holding it right in front of me. ''At least, wear this. I don't want that scar to open up again.''

It was a fresh tubular bandage. I looked at it, afraid that this was all a joke and Jenna was just pulling my leg. But she would never do something like that. I cautiously took it from her and fitted it around my bad arm. The sleeve stretched and then constricted around it. I moved my arm around, trying to get used to the feeling of wearing one of these again. Wearing it reminded me of being back in the hospital, an unpleasant feeling.

Jenna could see I was doubtful about this. ''You'll forget about it when you start playing. But, you still have to be careful, okay?''

''Okay, thanks,'' This was a nice thing to do for me, even though it was the complete opposite of what she wanted. ''Uh…are you coming to watch the game?''

She shook her head and started walking towards the door. ''I'm sorry, I can't. I'm needed at work today.''

I should have expected that answer. For my first ever game, I would have liked her to come. Even if we've had our disagreements, she's still my sister and I want to make her feel proud about something I achieved. ''Okay, I'll see you later.''

''Bye.'' She called out before walking out of the door.

Speaking of, I needed to make my move. There's no way I'm getting a detention today of all days.

12:32

The morning was thankfully uneventful. I attended classes with people not worth talking to and that gave me time to think about the game ahead. After lunch, I went into the boys changing room to have some time to myself. My anxiety was like a cage of hungry lions. I shouldn't get like this. I've dealt with things far more life threatening than a football game if you could even consider that life-threatening at all. But something about today felt…nerve-wracking. I didn't have much to prove since I was a nobody, but I also had everything to prove for the very same reason. Things had been going wrong for Omega Kid, now was not the time for Thomas Lanks to fall down the same dark rabbit hole.

Not helping matters was that this game was against Toronta Secondary School. Our main rivals when it came to everything. There was added pressure on the team to win this one.

I almost jumped when I heard the door open and Gabriel stepped inside. ''There you are. We've been looking for you.''

I stood up and approached him. ''Sorry, I just wanted some time to myself.''

''Pre-game nerves?''

''I guess.''

He nodded with an amused grin. ''I know them.''

''But, you're the captain. You've been doing this for a while now…''

''True, but that doesn't mean I don't still get nervous before every game. If I didn't, I wouldn't be ready for everything,'' He walked over to me. After staring at me for a second, his smile dropped. ''Are you okay?''

My heart beat faster. This is exactly what I was afraid of. He noticed my clearly noticeable injuries. I forced a beaming smile. ''I'm great. Why?''

''You don't look great.''

''Well, we can't all have your handsome looks.'' I joked, but he was having none of it.

He folded his arms over his chest and stepped closer, towering over me. Thank goodness I didn't decide to join the basketball team otherwise I'd be a piece of gum at the bottom of someone's shoe. ''Did Onder do that to you?'' He gestured to my bruises.

''No, no…it…it happened outside of school.''

''And you're sure you're feeling okay? We can't start with a player who isn't 100% fit. It's not too late to change tactics and have you start on the bench.''

While I did understand what he was saying, there was something inside of me screaming in anger. We haven't even started the game yet, and they were already considering dropping me? I'm not going to let that happen. I've finally got something going my way and I'm not going to let anything ruin that. I've fought thugs and bike thieves while injured before. How hard can it be playing a football match 99% fit?

I gave him a reassuring smile. ''Don't worry, I'm good.''

Gabriel didn't look convinced. He stared at me while I found the floor more interesting to look at. Not the best way to encourage him, but I couldn't deal with another argument. I just wanted this game to start so that I could prove everyone wrong. So that I could prove I was wrong and I could do something right. After a while, he shrugged. ''Okay, if that's what you say.''

''I promise I won't let you down!''

''I hope not, Chloe and I have got a little bet going.''

''You have?''

He chuckled. ''I've got ten quid to say you'll get an assist, while she's betting ten that you'll actually score a goal.''

''Wow,'' I gasped. ''Those are…pretty long shot bets.''

''Luckily, long shots are my speciality,'' He gave me a confident smirk and wink. It seemed like he was about to turn to leave when he unhooked a bag that was strapped to his shoulder and handed it over to me. ''Here, I was looking for you to give this.''

''What is it?''

''You gotta open it to find out.'' He grinned.

Yeah, I guess that was a stupid question to ask. Whatever it was, it was soft as my fingers easily pressed into the bag and it felt light as a feather. I opened it and retrieved the item inside, feeling the smoothness on my skin and a fresh smell waft out of it, I knew what it was before I pulled it out and saw it for myself. ''Is this our official football kit?''

''Well, if you're going to be apart of the team, you need to right uniform.''

The short-sleeve shirt was orange, with sleeves as black as the night and shorts just as dark with white stripes running down the side. The Hallblock school name and logo was proudly displayed on the chest. Now, this was something that I felt good about wearing. ''Thank you.''

With a thumbs-up gesture and a confident grin, he turned to leave. ''Just don't get yourself into detention again before the game.''

''I won't!'' I promised as he left. My determination was boosted the longer I held the shirt in my hands. This was my time to shine.

I fumbled the shirt and shorts back into the bag and thanked my lucky stars that it was small enough to be squeezed into my rucksack. Although, my costume was being a pain, stuffing my bag to a ludicrous size. Feeling rejuvenated, I emerged from the changing room, heading to my next class before lunch was over with a renewed sense of optimism…until my vision went blurry for a brief moment.

Stopping by a wall, I leant my back onto it and waited. Things looked out of place, even when I would rub my eyes and try to focus on one thing. I didn't get much sleep recently, and I've taken enough blows to the head to possibly wind up in a coma some day soon. No, no, I can't let this stop me now. It had to just be a little slip-up. The only way that I'm going to be stopped from joining the team now is if I'm shot on sight. I'm really hoping that if there is a God, they know that was a figure of speech. I don't want to prove anything.

Thankfully, after a minute of eye rubbing, my vision returned to normal. That did give me a bit of a scare, but I'm not quitting now.

''Thomas.'' Hearing Rachael's voice filled me with some relief. I didn't want her to think that I was in a weakened state, so I straightened myself and saw her bounding towards me with a warm smile. However, her smile evaporated as she stopped in front of me. ''What happened to you? Are you okay?''

I sighed, not wanting to deal with this before my game, I shrugged it off. ''Yeah, yeah, I'm fine. It was…something stupid, no big deal.''

''Are you sure?''

''Yeah, I'm sure,'' I said firmer, trying to get my point across to her.

With my tone, her smile wouldn't return. ''Okay…I just wanted to wish you luck for your game cause I won't get the chance to later.''

''Wait, you're not coming?''

She shook her head and looked to the floor. ''No, sorry. I've got something else I can't wait on. I need to get a start as soon as possible…''

''No, it's okay.'' I interrupted.

I couldn't tell if it was the way I spoke or the fact I rudely cut her off while she was talking, but she looked at me with a spark in her eyes. Not the good kind. The kind that let a person know she wasn't ready to take shit. ''Thomas, are you sure you're okay?''

I groaned. ''I'm fine, I was actually doing pretty well a moment ago…''

Oh crap, I did not mean for that to sound how it sounded. I rubbed my head agitatedly, and a flash of concern appeared on Rachael's face. ''You know I'm always here to talk if you need to.''

That was the last thing I wanted to do. Talking about how I felt hasn't gotten me anywhere good recently. I talk and I make things worse like I'm doing right now. ''I can't…''

''Yes, you can.''

My fist clenched until I was pulling my own hair. My head was throbbing and I couldn't hold back anymore. All my emotions were amped tenfold, so when I screamed, I roared. ''No, because I just make things worse. You were wrong! Talking about how? Sharing the weight with other people? It doesn't work for me!''

She was clearly taken aback by me shouting at her, but she stood her ground. ''I don't know what's bothering you, but bottling it up won't help you either.''

''It'll help other people.''

''That doesn't mean you have to hurt yourself, inside or out.''

''Out?'' I cried out. I was so far gone that the crowd, which started to gather around us, didn't bother me. ''You think I ask for this? That I asked to get into fights and get myself hurt?''

''No, of course not! But there is something different about you. You're attitude's changed. It's like you draw fights towards you…''

''Maybe I've finally grown a backbone.''

''I wouldn't call lashing out at your friends having a backbone. Or nearly breaking someone's jaw…''

''He was going to hit me first! If I didn't defend myself, it would have been Jason all over again. Remember that? When I tried to help your cousin when no one else would?''

She took a step forward, staring into my eyes intensely. ''I do remember. You stood up against someone you knew could beat you, but you did it anyway because you knew it was the right thing to do. But, Stella told me about the other day. There didn't need to be a fight. You took things further than needed.''

I can't believe she was actually accusing me of going too far. Didn't Stella also mention the part where Onder insulted her and then threatened Megan? I couldn't deal with this. I was afraid that I would get myself in trouble and miss the game later. I turned to leave. ''Screw this. I'm done.''

''I'm not!'' Rachael called out, stamping her foot and forcing me to stay. A choir of whispering came from the other students watching this meltdown. ''I'm not going to let you push everyone away! You're not going to push me away!''

''Have you ever stopped to think that might actually be the best thing for me? I can't make things worse for people if I shut myself away from them.''

''Are you really going to do that? To me? To your friends? To your sister?''

''You are such a hypocrite!''

The corridor went silent, despite there being dozens of students around us. Rachael froze and looked hesitant on continuing this argument, but she persisted, showing her incredible mental strength. She was doing a better job than I was. But all I wanted was for people to leave me alone. ''Why am I a hypocrite?'' She questioned.

I didn't want to answer that. It would hurt her, and that's the last thing I wanted to do. But my scrambled brain told me this was the only way to get her to leave me alone. ''Ever since Year Seven, you've rarely let people get close to you. You leave classes early a lot of the time. Even outside of school, you tend to leave without any explanation. Why is it that I have to share my feelings with the world while you get to keep quiet about your own personal life?''

''It's not the same thing…''

''It feels like the same thing to me! I can't be as good with my emotions as you can! I can't be as smart as you, despite your attendance. Even if I had a private tutor.''

She gazed at me in confusion. ''What tutor?''

''The guy who was with you and your mum, last night at parent's evening! I assume he's your tutor. That would explain how you're so perfect at everything.'' I spat.

That was when it looked like I finally dented Rachael's armour. The fiery look in her eyes dimmed and she didn't respond right away, letting my words sink in. At first, I couldn't tell if I just exposed something that was personal to her, or if I hit her too close to home. The fact that I raised my voice at her in such an aggressive manner was enough to make me feel sick. After what felt like forever, she finally replied. ''He's my doctor.''

The tension locked all around my body loosened and I felt the fight inside me disappear instantly. Students around watched on in shock and I could see tears start to form in Rachael's eyes. What have I done?

I was suddenly swept off my feet as I felt someone taller than me shove me into the wall and hold me in place, even if I didn't have the will to retaliate. Everyone gasped in shock as Stella pinned me to the wall and gave me a deadly stare. I turned straight back round to Rachael, with Megan next to her comforting her.

''I'm not as perfect as you think!'' Rachael whispered before walking away. Megan gave chase after her.

I'd never felt so disgusted with myself. I can't believe I just did that to her. It was like I was trapped in a plane on autopilot about to crash. Even when Rachael was long gone, I still stared down the corridor and Stella still had me pressed up against the wall. Despite my strength, she did a commendable job holding me back. She looked at the crowd. ''Nothing to see. Move on.''

Some students disbanded right away, while others wanted to stay to see if another fight would come about. All Stella needed was to give them a menacing glare and they trotted in different directions.

Once things had calmed down, she finally released me from her grip. As tired as I was, I couldn't help but feel annoyed when I was reminded of how she told the story of me defending her against Onder. ''So, when you do this it's fine?''

''Don't!'' It was one word, but it spiked fear in my heart.

I groaned and turned to leave, but not before letting one last thing slip out. ''I won't be fighting your fights anymore.''

Her eyes focused on me and…something changed in them. I'm not sure what it was, and at this stage, I didn't care. However, something about the ghostly way Stella looked at me left me puzzled. Even when I walked away, she remained still and appeared to be deep in thought. I didn't pay any attention. I just needed to find some place to myself, maybe a crack in the Earth that I could hibernate in until the end of time.

I was sweating all over, and my body throbbed with every harsh breath I released. I was filled with so much regret, I wanted to tear this school down until I find Rachael and apologise to her. But, I couldn't do that. I was right. Even when I admit it, I still find a way to make people worse. She was better off without me. Everyone was.

It doesn't matter if I'm Thomas Lanks or Omega Kid.

16:22

No one dared approach me in any of my afternoon classes. I got through the rest of the day without saying another word to anyone. Even when heading to the nearby park and waiting in the locker room, as the rest of the team psyched themselves up and our coach was detailing the tactics on the board, I felt lost in another world. It wasn't long before kick-off, and I still couldn't get my head out of the gutter. All I could think about was Rachael. I made her cry. I upset her. I hurt her. It was the same way I treated Jenna. I was casting them away. I thought it would be for the better, but it was only making everything worse.

Not helping matters was the pain in my head increasing. I felt like I was going to faint here and now in the locker room with my teammates sitting around me, focusing all their attention on the game ahead. As much as I tried to, I couldn't. I wanted to win this game for the most selfish of reasons…to make myself look good. I wanted to prove to everyone, to myself, that I could do something good in my life.

I was dragged out of my thoughts by the sound of everyone clapping. The coach had finished his speech and we were being called onto the pitch. I still wasn't feeling up for it, and I had zoned out while the tactics were being discussed. It was too late to back down now. I rose to my feet, as did everyone else. Some people were saying a quick pray. Others wishing each other luck. I was alone until Chloe approached me. ''Hey…'' I started.

''Don't hey me!'' She scolded, silencing me. ''If I was the captain, you'd be off the team in a heartbeat.''

''What?''

''Don't play dumb. I heard about what you did to Rachael. She was in tears. And then Megan tells me you might have said something to Stella because no one can find her anywhere. What the hell is your game?''

It took me a few seconds to come to my senses. As much as I deserved it, it was jarring to see Chloe speaking to me so venomously. ''I…I don't know. I wasn't right in the head.''

That excuse wasn't good enough for her. I was actually afraid she was going to punch me. She remained composed enough to stop herself from doing such a thing as she groaned. ''You can apologise to her after the game. For now, focus on winning.''

''Understood.'' I nodded.

Not wanting to ignite her wrath, I walked on ahead. Before I rounded the corner, leaving the locker room, I noticed Gabriel heading over to Chloe. Feeling too curious to ignore this, I hide behind the wall and listened carefully. ''What's going on?'' Gabriel asked.

''It's Thomas. His mind isn't on the game.''

He sighed. ''I knew it. But it's too late to change our lineup now, and we don't want to waste a substitution too early in the game.''

''I know. We'll see how he starts. If he's still not feeling up to it, then we can take him off at half-time.''

''You think he'll last that long?''

''I hope so.''

I can't believe this! I haven't even started yet, and they were already talking about taking me off. I won't allow that. I need to get my mind straight. Push everything else to the side and focus on winning this game for the team. Afterwards, I can go back to thinking about the others.

Both teams were led onto the pitch by their respective captains and the officials for the game. The coaches stood off by the side, protected from the crowd watching by a large metal fence. If I were to guess, I'd say around a hundred people had turned up to watch this game. It might not be the Emirates Stadium, but it was big enough to jolt my nerves. The blistering sunlight beat down on us, a stark contrast from the torrential downpour the other day. As everyone got into position, I glanced over at our opponents, wearing an all-white kit with red stripes going down their shirts and shorts.

Going further back into our half, our goalkeeper, Mahadi Sharr, came over to me and bumped his fist onto me. ''Watch my back, new guy.''

''Don't you mean the front?''

''Excellent answer.'' He laughed and stood under the goal, sizing it up and patting his gloves.

I felt someone patting me on the back, and I turned to see Matthew Kane walking along with me. ''Ready for this.''

''Absolutely.'' I lied.

''Remember what I said? Don't be so tense. Just do what you did before, and you'll be good.''

It was nice to have some bit of encouragement before starting the game. I gave him a confident nod, even if it did make my head go numb for a moment. ''Same as before, got it.''

Matthew then pointed to the other side of the field. ''You see that guy there?'' I followed the direction he was pointing and spotted one of the Toronta players warming up. Jet black hair, tanned skin and with an athletic build. He looked clay-modelled to be a football player.

''Yeah, what about him?''

''He's their star player. A lone striker with wicked speed and excellent ball control. Apparently, some of the top clubs are scouting him…''

''So, he's our danger man to watch for, got it!''

''There's another thing you need to know about Chris Ronaldo…''

I raised my brows at him. ''His name is actually Chris Ronaldo?''

''Yeah, yeah, we've all made that joke about him. Listen, watch the strong tackles. He's been known to go down quite easy. Keep your eye on the ball. If you're not certain you can win the ball from him, don't lunge in. Tag him and keep him at bay until you have support to back you up. Okay?''

''Let's get started,'' I responded.

''I like the attitude,'' He then nudged my shoulder and gestured towards one of the fences off the pitch. ''Hey, you know those two?''

Looking over, I instantly recognised two familiar faces. ''Whoa, go Thomas!'' Alex cheered as loud as he could, his voice carrying over the whole field. Steph stood right beside him, blowing on a blue party blower until his cheeks went red.

I couldn't stop a small laugh from escaping me. I'm not sure how they knew where the game was taking place, but it was nice to see them. Although, it reminded me that they were the only ones here to cheer for me. Jenna, Rachael, Megan…I had forced everyone else away.

The game was ready to start. The referee set the ball down in the middle and Toronta were going to kick things off. My target man had one foot on the ball and both eyes on our goal. If he wanted to get there, he would have to go past me first. However, looking at him from a distance, my vision went blurry again and I was forced to rub my eyes. Exhaustion held me like a python about to squeeze the life out of me. It felt like my soul was drifting away from my body. I've hardly had any rest since this whole Toxin thing began. I've run myself into the ground.

I shouldn't have started this game. I'm not ready.

The whistle was blown and the game was on.

Toronta's passing was quick and smooth. None of their players held the ball for more than a couple of seconds, our team couldn't get it from them. We kept them in their defensive half. Their star player hadn't touched the ball since kick-off, but that didn't mean I was going to take my eyes off him, especially with the way he was prowling closer and closer to us. I gazed left and right. Our defence had their positions covered, standing in a line with me trying to follow them.

I bounced on my feet, trying to keep myself on my toes and steady myself for a counter attack. My leg pulsed with pain and my arm started to throb. I ignored it. I couldn't afford any distractions now.

On their side, Chloe comes up behind a defender and steals the ball from them. She passes the ball over to Gabriel who goes charging through two Toronta player tackles effortlessly. With this quick burst of energy, we were creating our first opportunity of the game. He lays it off for one of our other players, Samarge. He strikes the ball as hard as he can. Their keeper can't reach it.

CLANG!

The ball rattles off the crossbar and goes over. Groans and gasps cry out and I punch the air in frustration. Samarge holds his head in his hands, unable to believe that he missed such a golden chance. Gabriel rushes over to encourage him and quickly praises Chloe for the tackle and pass. It's easy to see why he was the leader of the team after William. I wish that I could motivate people like that.

I turn to Matthew. ''We seem to have started better.''

''There's ninety minutes in a game. Don't go celebrating because you've won the first five.''

The ball is kicked high into the air, almost disappearing into the clouds. I could see it coming towards us and was about to go for it before I saw Matthew dashing forward. He and a Toronta player jump for the ball, but Matthew gets his head onto it first, knocking it away from our goal and towards one of our players. Afterwards, he hurried back into position.

''Nice one,'' I called out.

''Thanks,'' He replied, never tearing his eyes away from the play going on in front of us. ''I'm taller, I'll go for the high balls. You stay on the ground and tackle anyone that comes close.''

''Right.''

For the next ten minutes, we slaughtered them. The chances fell to us and our passing was slick and too much for the other team to handle. However, while almost every stat was in our favour, the one that really counted remained tied. Neither team had bulged the net yet. I would have thought that we would get the first goal with the way we were dominating, but I didn't want to count my chickens before they hatched. We just needed one lucky break. One shot to beat the keeper and fly in between the goal posts.

''Should I go up to help?'' I asked.

''No, stay back,'' Matthew ordered.

Our winger charged down the right flank with the ball dancing around his feet. Once he reaches the corner, he crosses the ball into the box. Unfortunately, none of the other players was quick enough to react, and it flies harmlessly into their goalkeeper's hands. I sighed in annoyance. If I had gone forward to help, I could have got that. How am I supposed to prove myself if I don't get the chance to do anything?

Their goalkeeper tosses the ball out, right to the feet of Ronaldo. Now, it was time to see what all the fuss about. Admittedly, after a few seconds, I could see his skills on display. He dribbled past one player, then two, then three, all as if they weren't even there. The Toronta players don't even ask for the ball. They know that once he has it, he's not going to lose it. He charges into our half of the field and approaches our defence. One of our players gives chase, using his strength to try and force him off the ball. Ronaldo kicks it too far and can't keep up. Then, out of nowhere, Ronaldo tumbles to the group like he was caught in a stampede. There was no contact whatsoever. However, the referee blows his whistle, signalling a foul.

Our players crowd the official in protest, but he was having none of it, he'd already made his decision. What really ticked me off was once Ronaldo knew he bought a foul, he jumped back on his feet, unhurt and with a huge smirk plastered over his smug face. His teammates ran over to congratulate him as if he'd done something to be proud of. When he tries anything with me, I'll show him and wipe that smirk right off his face.

A group of five, including myself, stood close together to create a wall, protecting our goal from their free-kick taker. We locked arms and stood as tall as we could. Mahadi commands us on how far left and right he wants us so that he can have the best line of sight, while Ronaldo stood over the ball, waiting for his moment to shine. There was no way he was going to shoot. It's too far out. He had to be lining up an assist for someone in our penalty box. Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed one of their defenders sneaking around, not staying in one place. I kept one eye locked on him, suspecting something.

The whistle was blown, and as I predicted, Ronaldo didn't shoot. Instead, he lobbed the ball over the wall and towards the defender I had spotted. While everyone scrambled madly to reach it, I hurried to stop the ball from reaching its target. I stuck out a leg to intercept, but I was an inch too short and a split-second too late. The Toronta defender dived to head the ball and it goes flying between Mahadi's gloves.

GOAL!

1-0 to Toronta.

The Toronta players ran around ecstatically, cheering and embracing one another. Meanwhile, our team shared a look of dejection. I punched the ground in anger. I could have stopped that goal. Gabriel rushed around, railing everyone and telling us it wasn't over yet. He came towards me and offered me a helping hand up. I accepted and he hoisted me onto my feet before running back towards the halfway line, ready to start the game again. A sharp pain rushed through my leg. That attempt to stretch and intercept the ball might have made me pull something. It didn't matter. As long as I could run, I'm not giving up.

The whistle is blown for the restart and we're immediately at their goalmouth thanks to some beautiful passing and footwork. Everyone is on the edge of their figurative seat as the ball is slotted through by one of our midfielders towards Chloe. The Toronta defence is too high up the field and she bobs and weaves around them before unleashing a shot. However, their goalkeeper dives to the corner and catches. Chloe grunts loudly and the other players groan. We can't keep wasting these opportunities.

Something then hits me. Not literally. I notice Chloe glanced around the pitch as if looking for someone, before dropping her head and running back into position. This was most likely her first game without playing alongside her sister. I hadn't even thought of that until now. I wasn't the only one with something to prove today. All I wanted to do was show that I could do something good, while Chloe wanted to make someone else proud. Coming to this realisation, I felt a replenished burst of energy. I'm going to do well. Not just for myself, but for Chloe and Sophie.

Once again, the ball lands at Ronaldo's feet and he sprints past one player after the other. I wait for the right moment as he gets closer and closer. Matthew makes the call and he hunts after Ronaldo. The cheat skips and dances with the ball, keeping it as far away from Matthew's tackles as possible. My teammate couldn't risk sticking his leg in otherwise he might draw another foul. Wanting to back him up, I stay close behind and we have him trapped with nowhere to go.

However, neither of us was expecting him to clench the ball with both his feet and then jump right in between us. We can only watch as he hops past with the ball and is now running one-on-one against our goalkeeper. He blasts the ball towards the top corner, and I can even see it swerve in the air with unbelievable speed. Mahadi is powerless to do anything again, and the whole pitch is left breathless in that millisecond.

The ball swerves too far up, and it grazes the bar and soars out of play. A collective gasp is released by everyone on my team. Ronaldo slaps his hands together at the wasted chance, but he regains his composure and returns to his own half. He doesn't even look Matthew or me in the eye like we're not even a challenge to him. To be fair, with how easily he got past us, that might be the case. I'm starting to understand why top clubs are scouting him. It was like going up against a professional.

Matthew firmly pats me on the arm. ''Don't worry about it. Sometimes, no matter what you do, they're just too good.''

I don't believe that, not even for a second. It's about time I do something. My eyes turned back towards the other half of the pitch and once again, the Toronta defence was huddled quite high. If one of our players could sneak around them with a good pass, we would have a free chance. But, they probably expected this. Both teams were rivals and played each other many times a year, they knew everyone's strengths and weaknesses.

Except me. They didn't know what to expect of me if I have the ball.

An idea came to me. I rushed over to Mahadi before he started play again. ''Hey, I want you to pass it straight to me.''

''What?'' He stared at me sceptically.

''Trust me, I've got an idea.''

He still looked unsure, but eventually nodded. ''Okay, if you insist, new guy.''

I ran back into my position and made eye contact with Chloe, puzzled with what I was planning. Using subtle hand gestures, I silently got across my plan to her, hoping that she was onboard with it. She stared at me intensely and started shuffling about, getting herself ready. The plan was set, now was the time to put it to action.

Mahadi stood over the ball, staring out into the distance like he was going to kick it as far as he could. He surprised everyone when he shifted his feet quickly and passed the ball over to me. In an instant, Ronaldo was the first Toronta player to chase me down. Right on cue, their defence moved upwards and they didn't pay attention to Chloe preparing herself to run right past. With the gap shrinking, I quickly nudged the ball forward before blasting it over everyone. They were caught completely off guard as the ball went further than I even expected, and Chloe chased it down, forcing her into a one-on-one with their goalkeeper.

The ball bounces between them and the two charge to see who can reach it first. Chloe is the closest, but she doesn't have many options with the goalkeeper stretching their arms out as wide as possible. Chloe sticks her foot out and pokes the ball gently under the goalkeeper's elongated legs, causing it to roll into the net.

GOAL!

1-1!

Chloe Derrick has equalized for Hallblock!

Chloe pumps her fist and cries out triumphantly before running back to celebrate with the team. I beamed with happiness. Genuine happiness. I can't believe that I just got my first ever assist in football. The way the ball soared over everyone and then she gently tapped it in for a goal, I won't forget this feeling for a long time. Chloe rushes over to high-five me with a wide smile. ''You're still an ass. That was a great assist, but you're still an ass!''

''I know, but thanks.''

Gabriel patted me and hugged Chloe before addressing the team. ''Okay, back into positions. It's not over yet, not even close. We're starting over again.''

We obeyed and returned to our positions while Toronta licked their wounds. Next to me, Matthew clenched his hand, waiting for a fist bump. ''That was a nice one.''

''Thanks,'' I replied and bumped his fist, overwhelmed by all this sudden positivity.

''Shame that'll be a one-time only thing. You've done it once, they won't fall for it again.''

He was right. It was back to square one, but I felt confident again. This was the lucky break I've waited for. Hopefully, this was a sign of the tides changing in my favour.

The whistle goes and we begin again.

The Toronta players get into their flanks and begin passing it around, looking more urgent in their play now that they know we mean business. Their defence was tight and didn't go charging forward as they had done before. There was no way my plan would work a second time, I had to think of a new strategy. They refused to let go of the ball, playing patiently and waiting for the right moment to strike.

Before long, the ball was with their star man and he began showing off his tricks and flips with the ball. Were they just buying time? It didn't feel like they were trying to win the game at this point. Then again, I don't think we had much time left until half time. I had no way of knowing. I remembered what Chloe and Gabriel discussed earlier, about subbing me off if I looked too tired. But, I helped with a goal. They wouldn't just get rid of me like that, would they?

If I could tackle our opponent's best player that would show everyone I'm well enough to continue.

As Ronaldo continued to showboat, I advanced towards him. Keeping a short distance away from him, I let him think that he was making a fool out of me, sliding the ball around his feet without actually doing anything with it. My moment came when he briefly lost his control and the ball was slowly stuttering away from him. I lunged my foot in to tackle him. He must have stuttered on purpose because faster than I could register, he threaded the ball through my legs and brushed me aside with ease.

I watch him break clear through, only to be stopped by Matthew getting a slide tackle right and booting the ball away. He glared at me, clearly disappointed that I fell for the very trick he warned me about. Ronaldo fixed his eyes on me, sizing me up before strutting away smugly. He must think that he had me figured out; that I was an impatient hothead who dived in at the quickest opportunity. To be fair, that was how I acted just now. But next time, I'll get him.

In a matter of minutes, the ball was back with Ronaldo again. It was as if he was the only player of note on their team. If we could stop him, we could win this game. He starts with a simple jog until Gabriel starts sprinting after him. Ronaldo mimics his actions and the two athletes were blitzing down the pitch. Everyone watched on, knowing there was no hope of catching them. The further they ran, the more obvious it became that Gabriel was too much for Ronaldo to handle. He attempts to change course, heading in my direction, hoping to dribble his way out of their face. I saw a chance to get my revenge.

I dashed towards them. Ronaldo saw me coming and shifted the ball to his other foot. I don't know how I reacted so quickly, but I could see him trying to hook the ball around me, so I twisted my body and swiped my leg underneath and kicked the ball away from his feet. He goes toppling on top of me because of the momentum. My body is clattered, potentially leaving another big bruise. It didn't matter all that much, I got the ball from him first.

''Great tackle!'' Gabriel praised and followed the ball.

That is until the referee blew his whistle to stop play. I needed to get my bearing back before I could see what was the holdup. Even Ronaldo seemed dazed by the crash, but I got off worse as he brushed it off and was back to jogging in no time. There was suddenly a chorale of protests and groans that drew my attention towards the referee, who was walking towards me and brandishing a yellow card.

''Wait, what?'' I shouted.

''Dangerous play!'' The ref deadpanned.

''Dangerous play? I got the ball…'' That was as far as my argument went before Chloe started dragging me away while Gabriel and some of my teammates surrounded the official. However, they weren't going to change anything now. The ref had been conned. He'd awarded them a free kick and I was punished for a foul I never committed. ''This is crap, that was a fair tackle!'' I complained.

''I know it was,'' Chloe stated, trying to calm me down and lead me away before I did something really stupid. ''Listen, players make mistakes during games and so do referees. Either way, we have to move on and keep at it. You're on a yellow card, so you have to keep it controlled from now on. We can't risk going down a player when things are tied.''

I nodded firmly, letting her know I received the message loud and clear. Meanwhile, the other players realised it was futile to protest at this point and got themselves ready to defend against this free kick. Before Chloe wandered out of reach, I grabbed her arm. ''Chloe, I'm sorry!''

''Forget it, I told you the ref made a mistake and…''

''No, I mean about everything else!'' I stressed. ''You're right, I've been an ass. I wish that I could take back what I've said and done, and I want to start by helping you to win this game and make everyone proud. I know that I can't be as talented as Sophie, but I still want to give it my all because I don't want to let down the people who have believed in me when I couldn't believe in myself.''

I panted, feeling breathless after letting out that rant. I didn't intend to come across so personal, and Chloe seemed stunned by what I just revealed to her. There was no telling what she was thinking or about to say, even as her expression softened slightly.

A gush of wind alerted me to something shooting past my head. I turned just in the nick of time to see the ball flying into the top corner of our goal before anyone could process it.

GOAL!

2-1 to Toronta!

A bewildered Mahadi extended his arms. ''What the huh?''

Ronaldo and his teammates celebrated wildly once again, leaving the rest of us in shock at what had just happened. They had been allowed to take a quick free kick before we were even ready. The referee found himself surrounded by Hallblock players, but like before, he ignored their angered taunts and ordered for us to restart play. I never heard a whistle. This had to be some kind of sick joke. Just when things were finally going my way, something has to screw me over.

I look around for Chloe, but she was already getting back into position further up the pitch. There goes the chance for our talk.

We start to kick off and Toronta are not giving us a moment's rest. Our players pass the ball to one another, trying to find space to move, but they were hounded like foxes on a hunting trip. I move forward as the ball is given to me. I keep my head up, searching for anyone who was free. Every person was marked and I had no choice but to dribble with the ball for as long as possible. One Toronta player comes towards me and I skip to the side, avoiding his tackle. However, another swings their foot across my legs and chops me down. I make a hard landing right on my bad arm.

Hissing through gritted teeth, I try to get back up, but my arm felt like heavy lead and weighed me down. I glance up to see what was happening. Some how, some way, the ref didn't call for a foul and allowed play to continue. What the hell? My tackle was deemed unfair, but getting sliced off my feet is completely fine? This is unbelievable.

Trying to pick myself up, I was just in time to see Ronaldo make a one-two pass with his teammate and slot the ball right into the bottom corner.

GOAL!

3-1 Toronta!

We're losing our grip on this game just as quickly as I was losing my patience. Everyone's heads dropped, and our captain found it harder and harder to motivate the team. I tried to get back up, ignoring the dizzying feeling that swam over me. I glanced down at my arm and cursed when I saw a red spot begin to grow under the bandage. It'd started bleeding again. If anyone on the team sees, I would be taken off immediately. Thinking quickly, I rip off a bit of the orange shirt around the hem and strap it over the red spot until it was completely covered. It looked suspicious as hell, but at least it would buy me some time until I helped us back into the match.

The game begins and the other team were relentless. We were shaken and unable to focus as they stole the ball and Ronaldo came charging towards me once again. He's probably picked me out as the weak link in the team. Matthew attempts to cover me by stepping forward. He's caught off guard as Ronaldo lays the ball off towards another Toronta player sprinting down the wing, leaving him in the dust. The ball is given back to the show-off and I go in to stop him in his tracks.

His feet are like a blur, stepping over the ball and confusing me until he dances around me without any trouble. I kick my leg out in a desperate attempt to tackle him, but he slides the ball away from me. He was too quick, and with my bad arm, I wasn't able to keep up. It felt like a thousand needles were jabbing into my skin. I look up at him, expecting him to run towards our goal now that he was free. Instead, he kept the ball under his foot and waited, beckoning me to take him.

He was taunting me. There was no attempt to score another goal. He wasn't showboating to prove he was the best now. He was showboating to make me look pathetic. Growling furiously, I kick and lash out, but he glides the ball away from me every time. I keep him at bay while Matthew comes in from behind. But Ronaldo back heels it through Matthew's legs and spins around him. I dive in to take the ball and he clips it over my legs and jumps over without me even touching him.

This was turning embarrassing. I was being mocked. The worst part is that with my arm dragging me back, I was slow to get up and this encouraged him to tease me more. I even heard some of his own players yelling for him to stop playing around and go for another goal. Their pleas fell on deaf ears, proving that they were basically a one-man team.

No matter how hard I tried, it never seemed to be good enough. It didn't matter if I was fighting crime as Omega Kid or trying to do something good as Thomas Lanks, things were just never going to go my way. Channelling all my anger and frustration into one last attempt to take him down, I rush at him while he sprints forward, hoping to get past me. I lift my foot off the ground to try and win the ball cleanly. He wasn't going to get past me. Unfortunately, I wasn't going to get the ball either.

Everything seemed to move in slow-motion as the realisation hit both of us that we were going too fast. The ball skims underneath my heel as I clatter right into him, knocking him right off his feet and slamming him into the ground. He rolled on the ground, holding his stomach and groaning with pain. He wasn't faking anything this time. There was no doubt I'd caught him. In that moment, I knew that I failed. That was it.

I was so dazed by what had transpired I almost failed to notice the other Toronta players pushing through to try and get a piece of me while the Hallblock players stopped them from skinning me alive. The referee blew his whistle over and over again, trying to restore some semblance of order. The sound of everything around me was muffled. At first, I was worried my hearing had been damaged too, but I think it finally came to me how much I'd screwed up.

A pair of hands latched onto my arm and pulled me up. I turned to see Chloe, staring at me with disappointment.

Unable to think of anything I could say to her, I avoided eye contact with her. The ref walked over to me. To no one's surprise, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a red card, not even bothering to show me the second yellow. In my first, and most likely only, ever game for the school team, I'd gotten myself sent off. I could feel the eyes of my teammates scorching into my back. The longer I stayed here, the weaker I felt. I turned to leave, only to be stopped by Chloe grabbing me by the shoulder and forcing me to face her.

Sweat cascaded down her face, as she glanced down at my arm. I follow her and see that blood had started dripping downwards, no longer hidden by the makeshift armband. ''How did that happen?'' She questioned.

I could have just kept my mouth shut or lied like I'd done to everyone else, but knowing how much this sport meant to her, I couldn't bear the guilt. ''It was like this before. I wasn't ready for this game.''

She sighed and looked like she was going to tear her hair out. ''Why didn't you say anything?''

''I promised Sophie that I would help you win. I'm sorry.''

Maybe it was the emotions of getting invested in this game, or the fact I brought up her sister, but I could see her eyes begin the water. As soon as that happened, I wanted nothing more than to wish everything back to the way it was before. Before I joined the team, before Toxin, before…before Omega Kid. I was a nobody then, but at least I didn't hurt or upset everyone I came across.

Before I could see a single tear fall, I turned and walked off the pitch and back into the locker room. The sound of the game restarting outside faded away into the background, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I turned on the sink and removed the bandage around me up, gazing upon the bloody scar that had caused me so much pain. I refused to get into the shower, afraid that I might have more nightmarish flashbacks of my fight with Hellrider.

I try to clean myself as best I can, washing away the blood and sweat. I looked in the mirror, but I wasn't seeing myself in the reflection. I was seeing Omega Kid in the reflection. It finally dawned on me. I had two lives that couldn't fit together. No matter how hard I tried, one would always affect the other and create a spiral of misery and hurt. I was so close to taking my costume out of my rucksack and tossing it in the bin. But, that would have been stupid and made things a thousand times worse. Instead, another idea came to mind.

I left behind a note for my coach to see, letting him know that I would be walking home myself instead of waiting for the team. I wasn't sure if I was even allowed to do that, but by that point, I was already gone and walking out into the city. But, I wanted to make one stop first. I couldn't just throw this costume in the bin. If I really wanted to get rid of it, it would have to be more certain. Am I really doing this? I use to think of my Omega Kid costume as something I would fear and fill me with so much pride and excitement. Now, those feelings were gone, it felt like a curse I had given myself.

18:02

It actually felt harmonious to watch the waves crash against the side of the canal. It did help to clear my mind slightly, and thankfully my arm had stopped bleeding, even though the throbbing persisted. I knew that I was going to get hell when I go to school tomorrow. Something tells me my last day of the year was going to be filled with water bottles thrown and graffiti sprouting plenty of profanities at me. Although, that felt inconsequential to the bigger picture.

''Thomas!'' I heard Alex's voice call out and I turned to see him and Steph running towards me, panting heavily as they tried to collect their breaths. ''Jesus, man, we've been looking all over for you, what happened?''

''You saw what happened!'' I replied dismally.

Alex scoffed and waved his hand. ''Hey, the ref robbed you. We were on the other side of the pitch and even we could see he was biased with his decisions. Right until the end.''

''How did the game end?''

He hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck. ''Well…that cute girl scored another goal, so that was…''

''Toronta won 7-2!'' Steph answered bluntly. An exasperated Alex slapped him around the back of his head soon afterwards, causing him to continue. ''I mean, it could have been worse. It could have also been better, but…''

Alex slapped him before he could say anything else. ''Literally, every single syllable that slips out of your pie hole makes everything worse.''

''Please, no! I don't want to go to prison! Please!''

''I didn't need your help!''

''All that talk and this is the best you can do?''

''I'm not as perfect as you think.''

Wrong, I make everything worse.

Hoping to drown out the voices, I punched the railing so hard my hand clenched in agony. Alex and Steph stopped their squabble instantly and turned to me as I looked away, staring out towards the canal while my rucksack rested against my leg. Things grew quiet as the brothers waited for an explanation for my outburst. My voice was too weak to scream. ''I don't know if I can do this anymore.''

''What do you mean?''

My mind going back to simpler times, where the concept of me being a superhero was a daydream. I let out a heavy sigh. ''You were right.''

''What about?'' He whispered, sounding increasingly concerned.

''About real-life superheroes. You said something like…things being impossible to achieve and they can't quit before it's too late.''

''Hey, wait a minute!'' Alex stammered. ''That's not what I meant. What did I mean, Steph?''

''How should I know?''

''You were there!''

''You said it!''

Alex grunted at his brother before focusing back on me. ''I think…what I was trying to get across was…it's different. People haven't done what you've done here in London. So, we were afraid and…I only thought it was impossible because no one had done it. But you have! Don't you remember before about what I said with you inspiring courage?''

''It's because of courage this has happened! I threw myself into the fire. I'm in way over my head. I'm lucky that I haven't been killed yet. But, I'm getting hurt and the people around me are getting hurt,'' The first thing that came to me was Rachael and how upset I made her. I was almost too broken up to continue. ''I'm not needed. I can just let No-One and Hellrider fight the crime. They seem to know what they're doing.''

''Who's Hellrider?'' They both questioned.

I cry out and grab my rucksack, prepared to throw it over the railing and into the canal, never to be seen again. I almost let go when two arms grabbed me and pulled me back. I tried to fight them off, but my weakened arm stood no chance against the brothers. While Alex kept my arm down, Stephen grabbed the rucksack and yanked it from my arm. They pulled back as I turned sharply. ''Fine! You two want to be the superheroes so badly? You can do it! You'll do a better job than I have!''

The two of them shared a look while I twisted my body away from them and rested my arms on the railing. My breathing was erratic as tears threatened to drench my cheeks. They were quiet for a long time, probably waiting to see if I would try anything else. I'm low, but I'm not that low.

Finally, Alex spoke in an unusually quiet tone. ''If you want to quit, then that's okay.''

That got me to turn around and face me. ''What?''

They looked utterly defeated and saddened. Licking his dry lips, Alex went on. ''We didn't know how much this was hurting you. Maybe we did? But we overlooked it because we thought it was the coolest thing ever we were best friends with a superhero.''

''We wanted to be apart of that too.'' Steph offered a weak smile.

''So,'' Alex took the rucksack from his brother and hooked the strap over his shoulder. ''If you don't want to be Omega Kid anymore, there's no shame in quitting. We're sorry if we made you feel that way.''

''But…but, I thought you both wanted me to be Omega Kid?''

''Not at the cost of losing our best friend.''

I felt my heart drop into my stomach. Things went so quiet I could hear the gentle breeze strengthen. I didn't know what to say after that admission from them. My mind was too scrambled to think of a response.

Thankfully, I didn't need to hurt my brain as Alex and Steph turned heel to depart, but not before Alex left some final words. ''For the record, I doubt we could be better superheroes than you, even if we tried for a hundred years.''

I watched them walk away. My mind was in two places. One wanted to call out and tell them to stay, while the other thought that this was for the best, and I needed to be alone.

Once they were gone, the sound of their footsteps disappearing into nothingness, I turned back round to gaze out towards the canal. The growing gush of wind caused the waves to strike the side harder, almost slapping over the railing and onto me. My back felt stiff, so I reached over my shoulder to adjust my rucksack…oh yeah, I'd already forgotten I wasn't wearing it. By this point, I was already so used to wearing it, I almost felt naked with it gone.

A nauseating feeling rolled along my body. Was it regret? It couldn't be. Getting rid of my costume is exactly what I wanted, right? I don't know anymore.

While I continued to look out over the body of water, I heard quiet footsteps coming from behind. Alex and Steph don't quit. I sighed. ''Guys, I…''

My words were caught in my throat when I felt the familiar sensation of a gun pressed against the back of my head. I froze and felt my heart stop. I don't think the brothers would go to this extreme to get me back in the costume. Moving as slowly as possible, I raised my hands over my head. The person pushed the gun harder against my skull, indicating that they didn't want me to move.

''I don't have anything on me,'' I trembled. ''I won't turn around. You can just walk away.''

No response. Instead, the gun started to shake. I couldn't tell if that was because of me or if the person was scared as well. I don't know what this person had to be afraid of, considering I was the one on the wrong end of the gun.

I gulped and tried again. ''If this is a joke, you got me. Please, put it down and walk away.'' There was still no answer. This was the last thing I needed for my already crumbling mind. I felt my frustration and anger return. Despite the alarming situation I was in I couldn't stop myself from losing my cool again. ''Just tell me what you want!''

''I know you're Omega Kid.''

My breathing stopped. It should have been because my secret identity had been discovered, but it was because I recognised the voice instantly. Even though they tried to hide it by growling their words, the woman's voice was too familiar.

''Stella?''

They flinched. The gun moved away, no longer pressed against my scalp but I could still feel the tip pointed towards me. Taking a chance, I slowly turned around, keeping my hands up to stop that I was still at her mercy. When I finally saw her, I knew I was never going to get that image out of my head. Stella stood there, aiming a pistol at me. Her face flushed and eyes glazed. While I was too paralyzed to move quickly, her breathing was erratic and she was panting like a dog.

''Why?'' I asked.

She released a shaky breath. ''I'm here to give you a warning. If you don't stay out of the way, someone will shoot you, and I won't be able to do anything to stop it.''

I should have been more shocked, but the longer I thought about it, the more it made unfortunate sense. After her experience with Jason, I suppose this kind of life was never going to leave her. ''Oh my God, you're Toxin! Aren't you?''

To Be Continued...

If you'd like, you can follow my original stories on Wattpad. My penname is Thomas-LF. Thank you for your time, if you do read them, I hope you enjoy them.