The Ghost in the Goal

Liam slammed the locker shut, the metal reverberating through the silent locker room. Frustration gnawed at him like a hungry beast. Another practice, another missed opportunity, another scathing critique from Coach Henderson. His reflexes were slow, his passes erratic, his shots lacking power. Something was wrong, terribly wrong, and Liam couldn't figure out what it was.

He slumped onto the bench, burying his face in his hands. The other players had already left, eager to escape the stifling atmosphere of defeat that clung to the team like a shroud. Liam wished he could escape too, but the weight of expectation pressed down on him. He was supposed to be the star striker, the one who led their high school soccer team to victory. But lately, his performance had been abysmal, and whispers of doubt were starting to circulate amongst the players.

Lost in his despair, Liam didn't notice the figure materialize beside him until a soft voice spoke,