I step up to serve, my heart racing. This is it, the moment of truth. I take a deep breath, try to steady my nerves. You're not getting this break, I tell myself. No way. I bounce the ball a few times, then toss it up and smash it with all my might. The ball streaks towards you, a blur of green. You swing but you're a split second too late. The ball whizzes past you. 40-advantage Yes! One more point and this game is mine.
I step up again, determined to finish this. I serve, aiming for the corner. You return it but it's weak, floating. I pounce on it, slamming a forehand down the line. You dive for it but it's out of reach. The ball hits the fence with a thwack.
Game, set, match! I let out a victory scream, tossing my racquet into the air. I did it! I won! I race over to the net, a huge grin on my face. Good match, you played great. But I played better. I wink at you, then jog over to my bag to pack up my things. I can hardly contain my excitement.
That was intense but so satisfying. I feel like I'm on top of the world. **