Chapter 9: The Strain of Success

Jaxon was walking off the court when he still could hear the din of the crowd. Another triumph under his belt, but instead of the customary sensation of success, he carried weight. The success he had been pursuing for so long was beginning to show negative effects.

Being the Alpha of the team meant more than just guiding them to success; it also meant daily proving oneself. And every game the tension was getting more difficult to overlook.

Jaxon experienced the soreness deep in his muscles while seated in the locker room following the game. He was physically wearing the season. Every leap, every run, every contact with another player seemed to stay longer in his body than it had before.

Though he had always pushed himself to the edge, now his body seemed to be starting to rebel.

Stretching his legs, he winced at the hamstrings' tightness. The trainer had cautioned him he was overworking himself and he should relax.

But just how could he stop?

The team looked on him to guide them tow