millyh23

[millyh23]

Hi how are you and love your fics did you get my request

Which one was it ahaha x

[millyh23]

Hi I’m a huge fan of your fics but is it ok if you add a read more tab for the long fics?

i knew there was something that i had to do but i couldnt remember.

cheers for the reminder mush

they should all be done now

🫶🫶🫶

[millyh23]

In Bloom

Patri Guijarro x Reader

word count: 15.5k

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Training with Barcelona had always been intense, but today felt different. Y/N could sense the tension simmering the moment Patri walked onto the field. It was the same barely-there acknowledgement they’d practiced for years: a stiff nod, averted eyes. On paper, they were teammates, both essential to the success of Barça and Spain, but outside the official photo, they might as well be strangers.

Midway through practice, a small-sided scrimmage forced them to play side-by-side, and the air felt thick with unspoken resentment. Y/N couldn’t tell when it had begun exactly, only that the rivalry had been there since her first game with Patri, each subtle dig and brush of a shoulder building the divide wider.

The ball hit the ground near them, and Y/N, in position to receive it, sensed Patri closing in from behind. They reached for it at the same time, but Patri, fiercely competitive, leaned in too hard. Y/N felt the impact before she saw it, her balance slipping as her shoulder hit the grass. Anger surged in her chest as she jumped up, brushing herself off and glaring at Patri.

“Seriously?” Y/N spat, voice just loud enough for Patri to hear but too low for the coach’s ears.

Patri didn’t back down. She took a step closer, eyes hard, barely disguising the contempt behind her words. “Maybe if you kept up, you wouldn’t be on the ground.”

“Maybe if you actually passed the ball instead of hogging it every game, we’d get somewhere,” Y/N shot back. Her fists clenched, and she could feel the strain of biting her tongue to keep from saying more.

The coach’s whistle blew, calling them over, but the silent animosity between them buzzed like an invisible barrier. When the drill ended, they returned to the locker room without a word. Y/N sat a few benches away from Patri, both of them pointedly ignoring each other as they untied their cleats.

The tension followed them to the next national camp for Spain. As fate would have it, they ended up roommates—a final jab from whoever organized room assignments. Neither protested aloud, but Y/N caught Patri’s eye-roll as they both walked into the tiny room.

The nights were quiet, save for the occasional frustrated sigh from Patri or Y/N’s annoyed scoff when Patri hogged the bed space. They moved around each other with a forced politeness that bordered on resentment, every little action feeling like a minor battle won or lost.

One evening, after a particularly tense training session, Y/N couldn’t hold it in any longer. She caught Patri on the way out of the room.

“Do you hate me, or do you just enjoy making every day hell?” Y/N asked, her voice colder than she intended.

Patri turned, pausing in the doorway. Her gaze was as steely as ever. “You think I spend my time hating you? I don’t have time to care that much.”

Y/N clenched her jaw, words laced with frustration. “Then maybe stop acting like it.” She waited for a response, her heart beating faster than it should.

Patri simply shrugged, eyes dark and unforgiving. “If you can’t handle it, maybe you should stop making it personal.”

The door closed behind her, leaving Y/N alone in the room, her chest aching with an inexplicable mix of anger and hurt.

The team had just wrapped up a long, grueling training session, and Y/N’s patience was wearing thin. Once again, she found herself clashing with Patri on the field. Every drill had felt like a test, each pass an indirect challenge. By the end, Y/N was wound tight, emotions barely contained beneath the surface. She knew she had to get it off her chest or risk snapping in front of everyone, so she went to the one person she trusted.

Alexia was sitting on a bench outside the training grounds, sipping water and cooling down when Y/N approached. She raised a brow, sensing Y/N’s frustration from a mile away.

“Hey, you alright?” Alexia asked, patting the bench next to her. “You look like you’re ready to throw something.”

Y/N sighed heavily, dropping down beside her. “I don’t know how much more I can take of Patri acting like she’s better than everyone,” she muttered, voice hushed but seething. “It’s like she can’t stand the idea of anyone else having the spotlight.”

Alexia raised an eyebrow, nodding slowly but cautiously, unsure if she should add fuel to the fire. “I know you two clash, but… isn’t that just her way of being competitive?”

“Competitive?” Y/N’s eyes flared with indignation. “More like condescending. It’s like everything I do annoys her, and she makes it so obvious that she doesn’t want me here. I’m starting to think she hates me.”

Neither of them noticed Patri approaching from the locker room, her face hardening as she overheard Y/N’s words. She stopped a few feet away, arms crossed, tension radiating from her stance as Y/N continued.

“She’s constantly pushing me around during practice, never passes unless she has no other option, and don’t even get me started on her attitude. I don’t know what her issue is, but I’m sick of it.” Y/N let out a bitter laugh, shaking her head. “It’s exhausting trying to be a team with her when she acts like I’m in her way.”

Alexia shifted uncomfortably, sensing something or someone nearby, but before she could warn Y/N, Patri’s voice sliced through the air, icy and sharp.

“Oh, please, don’t let me interrupt.” Patri’s voice dripped with sarcasm, her expression cold and defiant as she glared at Y/N. “Go ahead, tell the captain how I’m the worst teammate you’ve ever had.”

Y/N froze, her mouth going dry as she realized Patri had overheard everything. Alexia looked between them, her face tense as she debated intervening.

Y/N narrowed her eyes, refusing to back down. “Maybe if you weren’t always trying to undermine me, we wouldn’t be here right now.”

Patri’s jaw tightened, her glare fierce. “Undermine you? You think I spend my time trying to make you look bad? You’re not that important.”

Y/N’s chest tightened, anger flaring. “Then why does it feel like you’re constantly making everything harder? Every time I step on the field, it’s like you’re waiting for me to fail.”

“Maybe I wouldn’t have to push you if you’d just play the way you’re supposed to,” Patri shot back, her voice low but filled with barely-contained anger.

Y/N’s lips curled into a bitter smile. “Oh, I’m sorry for not living up to your impossible standards, Patri. I didn’t realize I needed your approval to be part of this team.”

Alexia stepped between them, raising her hands. “Enough, both of you,” she said, voice firm but weary. “This isn’t helping either of you or the team.”

Patri huffed, crossing her arms as she looked away, but not before Y/N caught a flicker of something deeper—hurt, maybe, or frustration. Y/N felt her anger soften just slightly, her mind reeling at the sight.

Alexia’s gaze shifted to Y/N, her expression concerned but stern. “You both need to figure this out, or it’s going to destroy any chance we have this season.”

Y/N swallowed, feeling a pang of guilt. But when she looked at Patri, she saw only the same icy mask, the same unyielding barrier.

As Patri turned to walk away, Y/N couldn’t help but feel the bitter sting of unresolved tension hanging between them, a weight they both carried but refused to share.

A rare day off had rolled around, and for the first time in weeks, the Barça women’s team had a light team-bonding event planned. It was one of those days where they could let loose and just enjoy each other’s company—no drills, no drills, no game strategy, just relaxation. The whole team was excited, but Y/N felt a twinge of discomfort when she saw Patri in the same group she’d been assigned to.

When she noticed Y/N’s expression, Patri looked away, but not before Y/N caught the slight downturn in her mouth. Alexia, perceptive as always, nudged both of them together and suggested they partner up for the icebreaker activity, a scavenger hunt around the training facility.

Y/N hesitated, casting a wary glance at Patri, who looked just as unenthusiastic. But Alexia’s stern, no-nonsense look left no room for complaints.

“Alright,” Y/N muttered, breaking the silence between them as they began. “Let’s just get through this without killing each other.”

Patri smirked, a small, teasing glint in her eyes. “That’s a start.”

They moved from clue to clue in an awkward silence at first, each interaction stilted. But as they started tackling some of the sillier tasks on the list—like “find and photograph an unusual item” and “reenact a famous goal”—they couldn’t help but laugh.

At one point, while Patri was trying (and failing) to do an exaggerated, dramatic goal celebration, Y/N found herself laughing for real, the tension easing bit by bit.

“Not bad for someone who acts like they’re allergic to fun,” Y/N teased, giving her a playful shove.

Patri rolled her eyes but laughed. “If you were as funny as you think you are, maybe we’d have gotten along a lot sooner.”

Y/N smirked, folding her arms as they continued walking. “Oh, so you’re saying I’m funny?”

Patri shot her a look. “Don’t push it.”

The scavenger hunt continued in the same way, with Y/N and Patri exchanging quips and slowly falling into an easier rhythm. They even finished their list first, proudly high-fiving each other when they returned to Alexia with their completed tasks.

After the activity, Patri surprised Y/N by suggesting they get a coffee together. They found a small cafe tucked away in a quiet corner of town, taking a seat by the window as they watched people pass by.

They sipped their drinks in silence for a while before Patri spoke up, her gaze focused on her coffee cup.

“Look, about all the tension between us,” she began, her voice quieter than Y/N had ever heard it. “I know I haven’t exactly made it easy.”

Y/N blinked, taken aback by the sudden sincerity. She nodded, encouraging Patri to continue.

“It’s just…” Patri trailed off, her brow furrowing as she tried to find the right words. “I think I’ve always seen you as competition more than a teammate, and I guess that made me… defensive.”

Y/N considered her response carefully. “To be honest, I haven’t exactly made it easy either. I was so focused on proving myself that I might’ve taken some things personally.” She paused, letting out a breath. “Maybe we’re both just stubborn.”

Patri let out a small laugh. “Understatement of the year.”

They shared a quiet smile, the air between them lighter than it had ever been. For the first time, it felt like the walls were down, just a little.

“So… friends?” Y/N asked tentatively, holding out her hand.

Patri looked at it for a moment before taking it, shaking firmly. “Friends.”

As they walked back to meet up with the rest of the team, Y/N couldn’t help but feel a strange sense of relief. Things wouldn’t be perfect overnight, but it was a start—a start she hadn’t thought was possible.

Since their peace talk, things had changed between Y/N and Patri. There was still the occasional competitive spark during training, but it no longer carried that biting edge. Instead, it had turned into something warmer—a friendly rivalry. And with each passing day, the two grew closer, surprising even themselves.

Today, they were the last two on the training ground, having decided to stay back for a little extra practice. Patri had been helping Y/N work on her volleys, and Y/N was determined to master them before calling it a day. Patri tossed another ball her way, and Y/N leapt up, making clean contact as it soared straight into the top corner.

“Yes!” Y/N pumped her fist, and Patri broke into a grin.

“Alright, alright, I guess you’re finally getting it,” Patri teased, smirking as she grabbed another ball. “Still not as clean as mine, though.”

Y/N rolled her eyes, grabbing the ball from her and positioning it at her feet. “Oh, is that right? Then let’s see who can hit the crossbar the most from the edge of the box. Loser buys post-training smoothies.”

Patri raised an eyebrow, her grin widening. “You’re on.”

The two of them spent the next twenty minutes trying to outdo each other, their laughter echoing around the empty pitch. They each hit the bar a few times, but Patri ultimately edged out the win, prompting a begrudging eye-roll from Y/N.

“Fine, fine. Smoothies on me,” Y/N conceded, slinging an arm over Patri’s shoulders as they headed toward the locker room. “You’re lucky I’m generous.”

Patri laughed, leaning into Y/N’s playful half-hug. “You call that generosity? I’d say it’s just good sportsmanship after losing.”

On their way to the cafe, they continued to banter, the light-heartedness between them flowing effortlessly. They’d gone from barely speaking to having inside jokes and sharing playlists, both of them now each other’s go-to for venting about training, tactics, and everything in between.

When they finally arrived at the cafe, Y/N ordered two smoothies, adding extra protein to Patri’s just because she knew she liked it that way. They settled into a corner booth, the atmosphere warm and easy as they sipped their drinks.

“So,” Patri began, leaning back in her chair, “I heard you have this ridiculous pre-game superstition where you refuse to touch the grass until you’ve done three high-knees on the sidelines. Is that true?”

Y/N choked on her drink, her face heating up. “Who told you that?”

Patri smirked, raising her eyebrows innocently. “Let’s just say I have my sources.”

Y/N groaned, laughing in spite of herself. “Okay, yeah, it’s true. It started as a joke, but now I can’t seem to break the habit. And it’s not ridiculous! It’s effective.”

Patri snorted. “I’ll keep that in mind next time you’re being a stickler about the team’s warm-up routines.”

They fell into a comfortable silence, sipping their smoothies as they watched people pass by outside. For a moment, it struck Y/N just how strange—and good—it felt to be here, relaxed and genuinely happy with someone she’d once thought she’d never get along with.

“You know,” Y/N said, glancing at Patri, “I never thought we’d actually be friends. I always figured you’d just… I don’t know, hate me forever.”

Patri’s expression softened, and she gave a small shrug. “I didn’t hate you. I just… I don’t know, I think I was intimidated by you at first. It was easier to act distant than to admit that.” She gave a small smile. “Guess that backfired, huh?”

Y/N chuckled, nodding. “Big time. But I’m glad we got past it. I could get used to this.”

Patri grinned, reaching over to give Y/N’s hand a light punch. “Same. Besides, who else would keep up with my ridiculous training ideas?”

They both laughed, and in that moment, any lingering tension between them dissolved entirely. They finished their smoothies, making plans to meet up later with some teammates for a movie night, both feeling a newfound ease they hadn’t known was possible.

For the first time, they weren’t just teammates—they were friends, and it felt right.

Ever since Y/N and Patri had buried the hatchet, they’d become almost inseparable—and to their teammates, endlessly entertaining. Whether they were pulling pranks or challenging each other to the most random games, they always found ways to keep things lively. Today, they were in rare form.

It all started with Patri hiding Y/N’s left boot before training. Y/N was notorious for being slightly scatterbrained, so when she couldn’t find her boot, the locker room was instantly filled with laughter.

“Alright, who’s got it?” Y/N called out, looking around suspiciously. She zeroed in on Patri, who had a barely-contained smirk on her face.

“No idea what you’re talking about,” Patri said, not even looking up as she tied her own boots.

Y/N narrowed her eyes, pretending to consider. “Fine. Guess I’ll just wear one shoe and look ridiculous. But if Coach asks, I’ll tell her it was your idea.”

The threat must have done the trick because Patri burst into laughter, finally producing the missing boot from her locker. “Oh, you’re too easy to mess with.”

Y/N rolled her eyes, grinning as she grabbed the boot. “Just wait. I’ll get you back.”

During their water break, Y/N and Patri started chatting with a few of the international players, who were trying to learn Spanish. Patri, always the instigator, decided it would be funny to “help” Y/N with her Spanish—by giving her hilariously wrong translations.

“Okay, Y/N,” Patri said, trying to keep a straight face. “If you want to ask, ‘Where’s my bottle ?’ you say, "aixequeu-vos porcs mandrosos"

’”

Y/N squinted, suspicious. “That… that doesn’t sound right.”

Patri raised her eyebrows, feigning innocence. “Oh, come on. I’m practically your Spanish teacher at this point. Trust me.”

Rolling her eyes, Y/N walked over to Mapi León, who’d just joined them, and decided to give it a try. “Hey, Mapi, aixequeu-vos porcs mandrosos.”

Mapi gave her an incredulous look before bursting into laughter, clutching her stomach. “You just told me to, 'get up you lazy pig'”

Y/N turned around to see Patri, who was doubled over in silent laughter. Realizing she’d been played, Y/N crossed her arms, trying to look annoyed, but couldn’t hold back a laugh of her own. “Alright, fine. That was pretty good.”

Later that week, the team gathered at a local restaurant for a bonding dinner, and somehow, Y/N and Patri ended up seated next to each other. They couldn’t resist a little friendly competition, challenging each other to try the spiciest things on the menu.

“Alright,” Patri said, pointing to a dish labeled ‘Extra Picante,’ “If you eat this without flinching, I’ll pay for your dinner.”

Y/N grinned, scooping a large bite. “Easy.”

But as soon as she swallowed, her eyes went wide. Her face turned red, and she started fanning her mouth, trying not to cry from the heat. Patri, trying to be supportive but barely holding back laughter, handed her a glass of water.

“Not so easy, huh?” Patri teased as Y/N gasped, “That is lava!”

Despite her best efforts, Y/N ended up sputtering and had to chug two more glasses of water, while Patri leaned back, victorious.

Y/N wasn’t exactly sure when it happened. One minute, Patri was just her teammate, her friend—the person she could rely on for laughs, pranks, and post-training smoothies. And then, out of nowhere, something shifted.

It was a Wednesday afternoon, and the team was in the middle of a grueling training session. The kind of practice that left everyone soaked in sweat, gasping for breath, and desperate for the final whistle. But Patri, as always, was relentless. Y/N found herself watching the way Patri moved, her footwork sharp and focused as she weaved between cones with an effortless ease.

She tried to shake off the thoughts creeping in. Focus, Y/N, she told herself, but her eyes kept drifting to where Patri was, smiling mid-sprint as she overtook her teammates.

When Patri glanced her way and caught her staring, Y/N’s heart stuttered. She gave a quick, awkward wave, playing it off like she’d just happened to look her way. Patri waved back with that easy grin of hers, looking slightly amused, and Y/N quickly turned her focus to the drills in front of her. No big deal, she thought, but her cheeks felt a little warmer than usual.

That night, Y/N couldn’t sleep. The memory of Patri’s smile kept creeping back in her mind, annoyingly persistent. After tossing and turning, she gave up and wandered out to the team lounge, hoping a cup of tea might help settle her restlessness.

She was surprised to find the room already occupied—by Patri, sprawled comfortably on the couch with a blanket, flipping through a magazine. When Patri saw her, she smiled and scooted over, patting the empty space beside her.

“Can’t sleep either?” Patri asked.

Y/N nodded, settling down next to her. They sat in a companionable silence for a few minutes, sipping tea and flipping through the magazine, pointing out ridiculous outfits and trying to guess the lives of people in the pictures.

Somewhere between the laughter and the shared jokes, Y/N noticed the way Patri’s eyes sparkled when she laughed, and how the lines of her face softened in the dim light. For the first time, she felt a strange flutter in her chest—a feeling she couldn’t quite place.

When Patri glanced over at her, raising an eyebrow as if to say, “What’s on your mind?” Y/N quickly looked away, pretending to be absorbed in an article.

A few days later, they had a friendly match, and Y/N was in the zone, dodging defenders and pushing upfield with the ball at her feet. She was about to take the shot herself when she caught sight of Patri just outside the box, waving her arms and perfectly positioned.

Trusting her instincts, Y/N passed the ball at the last second. Patri didn’t hesitate, slotting it neatly into the net with a deft touch. The team erupted into cheers, and Y/N ran over, grinning wide as they high-fived.

“Nice pass!” Patri said, breathless and laughing, eyes alight with exhilaration.

Y/N couldn’t stop smiling as she looked at her. “Nice finish,” she replied, heart hammering a little too fast. They shared a moment, caught up in the energy, and for a split second, Y/N felt something shift between them.

Later that week, during a post-training stretch, Y/N and Patri found themselves side by side, leaning over to touch their toes. They started joking around, challenging each other to balance on one foot, which of course turned into a ridiculous game of who could hold the silliest pose.

In one overly ambitious attempt to stretch higher, Y/N lost her balance and stumbled, falling into Patri’s side. Laughing, she tried to catch herself, only for Patri to instinctively reach out, steadying her with both hands.

They froze, faces close, Y/N’s hands resting on Patri’s shoulders. For a long, breathless moment, the world felt very still.

When Y/N finally managed to pull back, she gave a nervous laugh, brushing off the moment. “Guess I’m a little too clumsy for yoga.”

But Patri’s gaze lingered, a little softer than usual. “Guess that’s what I’m here for,” she replied, a faint smile playing on her lips.

Y/N didn’t know why her pulse was racing, or why Patri’s smile seemed to leave her feeling dazed. But for the first time, she realized that maybe—just maybe—she was starting to see Patri as more than just a teammate.

And that thought, both exciting and terrifying, stayed with her long after they parted ways.

For days, Y/N had been working up the courage to tell Patri how she felt. The realization that her feelings had grown beyond friendship had taken her by surprise, but the longer she waited, the more it hurt. If she wanted to move forward—whatever that might look like—she knew she had to come clean.

After training, she lingered on the field, waiting for the right moment. She saw Patri talking with some teammates, her laughter carrying on the evening breeze. Y/N’s heart pounded with anticipation and nerves, and when Patri finally walked over to her, she forced herself to stay calm.

“Hey, what’s up?” Patri asked, wiping sweat from her brow, giving Y/N that familiar smile that always made her heart race.

Y/N took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. “I, uh… I was hoping we could talk. Alone?”

Patri’s expression shifted, her smile softening as she looked at Y/N. “Sure,” she said, nodding, leading them to a quieter corner of the training grounds.

Y/N’s mouth felt dry as she started. She wasn’t usually the nervous type, but something about Patri made her feel vulnerable in a way she’d never felt before.

“Listen, I… I’ve been wanting to tell you something for a while now,” Y/N began, looking down and then forcing herself to meet Patri’s eyes. “I know we’re friends, and I don’t want to mess that up, but I—” she swallowed, steadying her voice, “I think I’m falling for you.”

For a moment, there was nothing but silence between them. Patri’s face fell slightly, her expression a mix of surprise and something that Y/N couldn’t quite place. Y/N could already feel her chest tightening, a sinking feeling forming in her stomach.

“Oh, Y/N,” Patri said quietly, reaching out to place a gentle hand on her shoulder. “I… I didn’t know you felt that way. I really didn’t.” She paused, eyes filled with an unmistakable sadness. “But I’m actually… I’m seeing someone.”

The words hit Y/N like a wave, and she felt the ground slip from beneath her. She had hoped for so many things—a chance, a possibility. Anything but this.

“Oh,” she managed, forcing herself to keep her composure. “I didn’t know. I guess I should’ve asked before saying anything.”

Patri looked at her with such tenderness, as if she could feel every ounce of hurt Y/N was experiencing. “I’m so sorry, Y/N. If I’d known… maybe things would’ve been different. But we’re together now, and it’s serious.”

Y/N nodded, swallowing hard, trying to hold back the emotions threatening to spill over. “No, I get it. I shouldn’t have put you in this position.” She tried to smile, to make it easier for both of them. “I’m really happy for you, Patri. You deserve the best.”

They stood there, the air heavy with unsaid words and impossible what-ifs. Patri squeezed her shoulder gently, her eyes reflecting genuine sympathy and regret.

“You’re an amazing person, Y/N. I don’t want this to change anything between us. I hope… I hope we can still be friends.”

Y/N took a deep breath, nodding as she forced a smile. “Of course. Friends.”

The word felt hollow, but Y/N was determined to keep her promise. If that’s all they could be, she would accept it, even if it left her heart aching.

As they walked off the field together, she kept her smile in place, but the weight of unspoken feelings lingered, a bittersweet reminder of what could never be.

Since the night she’d bared her heart to Patri, Y/N felt like something inside her had fractured. It wasn’t just the rejection—it was the lingering embarrassment, the feeling that she’d exposed too much of herself, and now, no matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t take it back.

So she did the only thing she knew how to do: she pulled away.

It started small. During training sessions, Y/N found herself taking up positions on the opposite side of the field from Patri, drifting farther and farther away as though there were an invisible line she couldn’t cross. When they were paired up in drills, she made herself seem too busy to engage in their usual banter, keeping the interactions strictly professional and avoiding eye contact.

One day, while working on a passing drill, Patri finally noticed.

“Hey, Y/N,” she called, motioning for her to pass the ball.

Y/N kicked it over, a little too quickly, too sharply. Patri caught it with a frown, her eyes following Y/N as she ran off before Patri could say anything more.

And then, a few minutes later, Patri found herself alone, looking around the field and realizing that Y/N had somehow managed to move across the pitch without her noticing. A part of her started to ache with the realization.

It didn’t take long for Patri to notice Y/N’s absence outside training, too. The once-frequent movie nights, gym sessions, and late-night talks in the team lounge had vanished. Y/N would show up to the locker room later than usual, leave as quickly as she could, and disappear without so much as a backward glance.

One evening after practice, as everyone else packed up, Patri decided she couldn’t ignore it any longer. She spotted Y/N across the locker room, stuffing her things into her bag with a bit too much urgency.

“Hey, Y/N,” Patri called, keeping her tone light.

Y/N paused, looking up only briefly before averting her gaze. “Hey, Patri. Uh, got somewhere to be, so…”

Patri’s eyes narrowed slightly. “You’ve had ‘somewhere to be’ for the past week.”

Y/N forced a laugh, but it sounded hollow even to her. “Just, you know… busy.”

With a sad smile, Patri took a step closer, softening her voice. “Y/N, you don’t have to do this.”

“Do what?” Y/N asked, keeping her eyes fixed on her bag.

“Act like I don’t exist,” Patri said gently. “I know things might be awkward, but… we’re still friends, right?”

Y/N’s jaw tightened, but she kept her tone even. “Yeah, of course. I just… need a bit of space, you know?”

Patri’s face fell, her eyes filled with understanding and regret. She nodded, not wanting to push any further. “Alright. Take all the time you need.”

Y/N nodded back, her throat feeling tight as she grabbed her bag and quickly walked out. As soon as she was out of sight, she let out a shaky breath. This is for the best, she thought, but the words didn’t comfort her.

The following week, the rest of the team began to notice the gap between Y/N and Patri. They’d once been nearly inseparable, the pair known for their pranks and inside jokes. Now, there was a silent, almost painful distance between them.

During a team dinner, Y/N sat at one end of the table, laughing along with a few other teammates, but her laugh didn’t quite reach her eyes. Patri sat a few seats down, her gaze lingering on Y/N with a mixture of sadness and confusion.

Pina, who was sitting next to Patri, leaned over and whispered, “What’s going on with you two? You used to be glued at the hip.”

Patri sighed, forcing a small smile. “It’s… complicated.”

Across the table, Y/N overheard the exchange and felt a pang in her chest. She excused herself and went to the restroom, splashing cold water on her face. She didn’t know how to fix this without reopening the wound. The feelings she’d tried to bury were still fresh, and every time she saw Patri, it only reminded her of what she couldn’t have.

As she returned to the table, Patri’s eyes met hers, and for a moment, Y/N thought about telling her everything, explaining why she needed distance. But then the moment passed, and she looked away, her resolve strengthening.

After the team dinner, Y/N decided to walk home instead of catching a ride with her teammates. She needed the air, the silence, anything to clear her mind. But just as she reached the street corner, she heard footsteps behind her.

“Y/N, wait!” Patri called, jogging to catch up with her.

Y/N tensed, stuffing her hands into her pockets and keeping her gaze fixed on the pavement. “Patri, I really need—”

“A bit of space, yeah, I know,” Patri interrupted gently. “But I just… I miss you. And I can’t just stand by and watch you fade away.”

Y/N looked up at her, eyes wide, caught off-guard by the raw emotion in Patri’s voice. Her walls started to crumble, and she could feel her emotions bubbling to the surface.

“I’m sorry, Patri,” she whispered, voice trembling. “I’m trying to be okay with just being friends, but it’s… it’s harder than I thought. Every time I see you, it just hurts.”

Patri’s face softened, understanding dawning in her eyes. “Y/N… I never meant to hurt you. I wish things could be different.”

Y/N nodded, blinking back the sting of tears. “Me too. But right now, I just need time to figure things out.”

Patri reached out, hesitating before pulling her hand back, sensing Y/N’s need for distance. “Okay,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. “Take as much time as you need. Just… don’t disappear completely, alright?”

Y/N gave a small, sad smile. “I’ll try.”

They stood there, caught in a moment of lingering hurt and unsaid words, before Y/N turned and continued down the street. Patri watched her go, feeling the ache of the growing distance but knowing that, for now, it was something she had to accept.

Y/N had spent the past few weeks feeling like she was wading through a thick fog of emotions. After distancing herself from Patri, she needed a change of scenery, and a coffee shop outing with Mapi and Ingrid seemed like the perfect distraction.

The café was cozy, filled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the gentle hum of conversation. Mapi and Ingrid were already seated at a corner table, animatedly discussing the latest gossip about their teammates when Y/N arrived. The warm atmosphere wrapped around her like a comforting blanket.

“Y/N!” Mapi called out, waving her over. “Finally! We were about to send a search party!”

Y/N chuckled as she joined them, taking a seat and letting out a sigh of relief. “Sorry! I lost track of time. The training session was brutal today.”

Ingrid raised an eyebrow, smirking. “Or you were just daydreaming about someone?”

“Shut up,” Y/N replied, rolling her eyes but feeling a faint blush creep up her cheeks.

As they sipped their coffees and chatted, Y/N noticed a girl sitting at the table across from them. She had curly hair and an easy smile, her laughter spilling into the air like sunshine. Y/N found herself stealing glances, captivated by the girl’s infectious energy.

“Wow, look at you! You’re totally staring,” Mapi teased, nudging Y/N with her elbow. “She’s cute, huh?”

Ingrid followed Y/N’s gaze and grinned. “Go talk to her! You need to get over Patri. A little fun never hurt anyone.”

Y/N felt her heart race at the idea. “I don’t know, guys. What if she’s not interested?”

“Who cares? What’s the worst that could happen?” Mapi urged, leaning forward with a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Just go for it! You’ll never know unless you try.”

With a mix of excitement and anxiety bubbling in her stomach, Y/N took a deep breath. “Fine. I’ll do it.”

Gathering her courage, Y/N stood up, smoothing her shirt as she approached the girl’s table. She could feel Mapi and Ingrid’s supportive eyes on her, urging her on.

“Hey,” Y/N said, trying to sound casual. “I couldn’t help but notice your smile from across the room. I’m Y/N.”

The girl looked up, surprise turning into a warm smile. “Hey! I’m Sara. Nice to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you, too,” Y/N replied, feeling a flutter in her chest. “Do you come here often?”

Sara chuckled, her eyes sparkling. “Not really. I’m usually stuck in the library, but I needed a break. How about you?”

“Same. I’m just trying to escape from my daily routine,” Y/N said, glancing back at Mapi and Ingrid, who were both giving her thumbs up.

“Seems like a good place to do that,” Sara said, her smile widening. “The coffee here is amazing.”

Y/N nodded, her nerves starting to fade as the conversation flowed. They chatted about their favorite coffee blends, sports, and even the challenges of being an athlete. Y/N felt a genuine connection growing between them, the conversation feeling natural and easy.

After a while, Y/N felt bold enough to suggest something more. “So, um, would you want to grab coffee again sometime? Like, maybe on a proper date?”

Sara’s eyes lit up, and Y/N’s heart skipped a beat. “I’d love that! I’m always up for more coffee and good company.”

“Great! How about this weekend?” Y/N asked, her pulse quickening with anticipation.

“Sounds perfect!” Sara replied, her smile infectious.

Y/N walked back to Mapi and Ingrid, feeling lighter than she had in weeks. “I asked her out! We’re going on a date!”

Ingrid jumped up, wrapping Y/N in a tight hug. “Yes! This is amazing!”

Mapi grinned, her eyes shining with pride. “See? That wasn’t so hard, was it?”

“Not at all,” Y/N said, her heart soaring. “She’s really cool.”

The date went better than Y/N could have imagined. They met at a local park, where they walked, talked, and laughed, sharing stories that revealed glimpses of their lives and personalities. Sara’s humor and passion for life pulled Y/N in, making her feel alive in a way she hadn’t felt in a long time.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the park, Y/N knew she wanted to see Sara again. They ended their date with ice cream, sitting on a bench as they shared their favorite flavors and playful banter.

“You know,” Y/N said, licking her cone, “I’m really glad I came over to talk to you. You’ve made this week so much better.”

Sara smiled, her eyes twinkling. “I feel the same way. I was a little nervous when you approached me, but now… I’m really glad you did.”

Y/N hesitated for a moment, her heart racing. “Can I ask you out again? Like, a second date?”

“Absolutely!” Sara replied, her excitement evident. “I’d love that.”

Y/N felt a warmth spreading through her chest, the fluttering of hope blossoming where pain had once been. For the first time in a long while, she was genuinely excited about what was to come.

As they exchanged numbers and made plans for their next date, Y/N couldn’t help but think that maybe, just maybe, this was the start of something beautiful.

The post-game atmosphere was electric. After a hard-fought match, Barcelona had secured a convincing victory, and the team was buzzing with excitement. Laughter and cheers filled the locker room as players celebrated their success, slapping backs and exchanging playful jabs.

Y/N had felt the weight of her worries lift during the game, her heart racing not just from the adrenaline of the match but from knowing that she would soon introduce Sara to her teammates. After their date and the connection they’d built, it felt right to let everyone in on this new part of her life.

As the team gathered in the lounge to plan their night out, Mapi caught Y/N’s eye. “Are you ready for tonight?” she asked, a knowing grin spreading across her face.

Y/N took a deep breath, a mix of excitement and nerves coursing through her. “Yeah, I think so. I’m just… a little anxious about introducing Sara.”

“You’ve got this!” Ingrid chimed in, giving Y/N an encouraging nudge. “She’s amazing, and they’ll love her!”

Just then, the door swung open, and Sara walked in, her bright smile illuminating the room. She looked effortlessly beautiful, dressed in a casual yet stylish outfit. Y/N felt her heart flutter at the sight of her, and she couldn’t help but smile back.

“Hey!” Y/N called out, waving her over.

Sara approached, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. “Hey! I hope I’m not too late!”

“Not at all,” Y/N replied, feeling a rush of warmth as she took Sara’s hand. “We were just about to head out to celebrate the win.”

The team began to gather around, curious expressions on their faces. Mapi and Ingrid exchanged glances, clearly excited for the moment.

“Alright, everyone, listen up!” Y/N said, her voice slightly shaky but gaining confidence. “I want you all to meet someone really special to me. This is Sara—my girlfriend.”

The room went quiet for a moment, and then an eruption of cheers and applause filled the space.

“Y/N has a girlfriend!” Mapi shouted, grinning widely. “About time!”

Ingrid winked at Y/N. “You’ve been holding out on us!”

Sara’s cheeks flushed a light pink as she smiled at the enthusiastic reception. “Hi, everyone! It’s so great to finally meet you all.”

The team immediately began to swarm around Sara, bombarding her with questions and welcoming her with open arms. Y/N watched with a mix of pride and relief, feeling grateful for the warmth and acceptance of her teammates.

As the night wore on, the team headed to a local bar, the energy infectious. Y/N and Sara settled at a table with Mapi, Ingrid, and a few other teammates.

“So, how did you two meet?” one of the players asked, leaning in with curiosity.

Y/N smiled, glancing at Sara. “We met at a coffee shop. I was hanging out with Mapi and Ingrid, and they convinced me to talk to her.”

Sara laughed, recalling the moment. “I thought she was really cool, but I didn’t know she was so nervous to come over! She’s a natural.”

“Definitely not the impression I got on the field!” Ingrid chimed in, raising her glass. “Y/N is a beast out there!”

“Don’t let her fool you,” Mapi added, winking at Y/N. “She’s just as charming off the pitch.”

Y/N felt her heart swell with happiness, both from the compliments and the feeling of belonging. As the conversations flowed, she watched Sara engage with her teammates, effortlessly fitting into the dynamic.

After a while, Y/N felt a sense of ease wash over her. They joked, shared stories, and clinked glasses in celebration. The atmosphere felt warm and inviting, making Y/N realize how much she wanted this moment to last.

As the night progressed, the team decided to make a toast to their victory and to Y/N and Sara’s new relationship. Mapi stood up, raising her glass high.

“Here’s to a great win and to Y/N and Sara! May you two be as unstoppable off the pitch as we are on it!”

Everyone joined in, raising their glasses and cheering. “To Y/N and Sara!”

Sara smiled at Y/N, her eyes sparkling with happiness. “I can’t believe how welcoming everyone is. This is amazing!”

Y/N felt a warmth spread through her chest, knowing that she had made the right choice in introducing Sara to her teammates. “I’m so glad you’re here with me tonight,” she said softly, squeezing Sara’s hand.

Sara leaned in closer, her voice barely above a whisper. “Me too. I’ve had such a great time getting to know everyone.”

As the night continued, Y/N couldn’t help but feel a sense of hope for what lay ahead. She had taken a leap, opened her heart again, and found someone who made her feel alive and accepted.

Later, when they stepped outside for a breath of fresh air, Y/N turned to Sara, her heart racing. “So, what do you think of my team?”

“They’re fantastic! You must be so proud to be a part of it,” Sara replied, her smile infectious.

“I am,” Y/N said, her expression earnest. “But I’m even more grateful for you.”

Sara blushed at the compliment, her cheeks turning a light shade of pink. “I’m lucky to have you.”

As they stood under the stars, the cool night air surrounding them, Y/N felt an overwhelming sense of joy. She leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to Sara���s lips, a spark igniting between them.

“I’m really glad you’re in my life,” Y/N murmured, feeling a wave of emotion.

“Me too,” Sara replied, her voice warm and sincere. “This is just the beginning, right?”

“Definitely,” Y/N agreed, her heart swelling with hope for their future together.

With a smile, they walked back inside, hand in hand, ready to embrace whatever adventures awaited them.

---

Patri sat at the bar, her drink untouched, lost in thought as the team celebrated their hard-fought victory. The atmosphere was electric, laughter and cheers ringing in her ears, but her mind was elsewhere. She had just seen Y/N enter the bar with a girl who looked completely at ease, and for reasons she couldn’t quite understand, a knot of unease twisted in her stomach.

“Are you going to drink that or just stare at it?” one of her teammates joked, snapping Patri out of her thoughts.

“Yeah, just thinking,” she replied, forcing a smile.

Moments later, she caught sight of Y/N standing on a chair, raising her voice to grab the team's attention. Patri’s heart raced as she watched Y/N, her hair slightly tousled from the celebration, her smile bright and inviting. It was the same smile that had once drawn Patri in, back when they had shared their own moments of camaraderie and laughter.

“Everyone, I want you all to meet someone really special to me! This is Sara—my girlfriend!” Y/N’s voice rang clear, filled with excitement.

Patri’s heart sank. Girlfriend? The word echoed in her mind, leaving a bitter taste. She felt the weight of confusion settle over her. Why did it hurt so much to hear Y/N say that?

The room erupted into cheers, but all Patri could hear was the pounding of her heart. She forced herself to look away, but her eyes betrayed her, glancing back at Y/N and Sara as they embraced the enthusiastic welcome from the team. Sara looked happy, radiant even, and Y/N’s face was lit with joy. It made Patri feel as if the ground had shifted beneath her feet.

As the celebrations continued, Patri tried to drown her feelings in the loud chatter and clinking of glasses around her, but it was no use. Every laugh from Y/N, every playful banter exchanged with Sara, stung like a sharp jab to her chest.

“What’s wrong?” Mapi asked, sliding onto the stool beside her, noticing the distant look in Patri’s eyes.

“Nothing,” Patri muttered, forcing a smile. “Just… surprised.”

“Surprised? You sound more upset than surprised,” Mapi said, raising an eyebrow. “Are you jealous?”

“Jealous? No!” Patri snapped, perhaps a bit too defensively. “Why would I be jealous?”

Mapi gave her a knowing look. “I don’t know, maybe because you had a thing for Y/N?”

“I didn’t have a ‘thing’ for her!” Patri insisted, crossing her arms tightly. But even as she said it, doubt crept in. Had she?

The truth was, ever since Y/N had started distancing herself after their falling out, Patri had felt a strange void. She missed the camaraderie they once shared, and more than that, she missed the connection—the undeniable spark that had flickered between them.

“I just… I don’t know,” Patri finally admitted, her voice softer. “I didn’t think she’d move on so quickly. I thought… maybe we could work things out.”

“Do you want to?” Mapi pressed gently.

Patri opened her mouth to respond but found herself at a loss. The thought of Y/N being with someone else hurt more than she’d expected. “I don’t know,” she repeated, frustration creeping into her voice. “One minute, I’m angry at her, and the next, I’m wishing things were different. And now I see her with someone else, and it just—”

“Hurts?” Mapi suggested, her tone understanding.

“Yes! It hurts,” Patri admitted, rubbing her temples in frustration. “I’m confused, Mapi. I don’t know what I feel anymore.”

As the night continued, Patri found herself unable to enjoy the festivities. Instead, she sat at the bar, watching Y/N and Sara laugh together, a feeling of resentment bubbling beneath the surface.

Eventually, she couldn’t take it anymore. Driven by a mix of frustration and a need for clarity, she stood up and made her way toward Y/N and Sara. The laughter faded as she approached, and Y/N turned, her expression shifting from joy to surprise.

“Hey, Patri! What’s up?” Y/N asked, her smile genuine.

Patri opened her mouth, ready to say something, but all she could think about was how much she missed Y/N. “Can we talk?” she blurted out, her tone sharper than she intended.

“Uh, sure,” Y/N replied, glancing at Sara, who offered an encouraging nod.

They stepped away from the group, and Patri took a breath, her heart racing. “Look, I just wanted to say congratulations. I didn’t expect this, and I’m… happy for you.”

Y/N’s expression softened. “Thanks, Patri. I really like her.”

“But why now? I thought… we had something,” Patri blurted out, her voice trembling slightly. “I thought we were figuring things out.”

Y/N hesitated, her eyes searching Patri’s. “I thought so too, but after everything that happened… I didn’t know where we stood. It hurt to feel like I was losing you.”

Patri’s chest tightened at the honesty in Y/N’s words. “I didn’t mean to push you away. I just—”

“Didn’t know how to feel?” Y/N finished for her, understanding dawning in her eyes.

“Exactly,” Patri admitted, her frustration melting into something softer. “I still don’t know how to feel about any of this.”

Y/N looked down for a moment, then stepped closer, her voice low. “I care about you, Patri. But I also care about Sara. I didn’t want to rush into anything, but she makes me happy.”

“I just wish I could’ve been the one to make you happy,” Patri said, her heart aching with a mix of longing and regret.

Y/N’s gaze was steady. “You still can be. I want us to be friends again, but I understand if you need time.”

Patri nodded, feeling the weight of the moment settle heavily on her shoulders. “I think I need time,” she admitted, a hint of sadness creeping into her voice. “I don’t want to feel like this, but I can’t help it.”

“I get it,” Y/N said softly. “Just know I’m here, no matter what.”

As they stood there, an unspoken understanding passing between them, Patri felt a sense of hope flicker within her, even amidst the confusion. It was complicated, but perhaps, in time, they could find a way back to each other—whatever that might look like.

---

The soft murmur of coffee shop chatter surrounded Y/N as she sat across from Sara, the warm aroma of freshly brewed coffee enveloping them. It was one of those cozy afternoons where the world outside felt distant, and for Y/N, being with Sara felt like a breath of fresh air.

As they sipped their drinks, Sara looked at Y/N with a blend of curiosity and concern. “You’ve been a bit distant lately. Is everything okay?”

Y/N hesitated, her fingers tracing the rim of her cup. The truth about her feelings for Patri weighed heavily on her mind, and she knew she couldn’t keep it from Sara any longer. “Actually, there’s something I need to tell you,” she began, her voice steady yet filled with uncertainty.

“What is it?” Sara asked, leaning in slightly, her attention fully on Y/N.

“It’s about Patri,” Y/N admitted, the name lingering in the air between them. “She’s… complicated. We have history.”

“Complicated how?” Sara prodded gently, a hint of tension rising in her tone.

Y/N took a deep breath, deciding to lay it all bare. “We were friends first, and then there were moments where it felt like it could be something more. But we had a falling out, and now she’s seeing me with you, and it’s all just… confusing.”

Sara’s expression shifted, a flicker of jealousy crossing her features. “Confusing how? Do you still have feelings for her?”

“I don’t know,” Y/N admitted, frustration creeping into her voice. “I thought I was over it, but seeing her again… it brought back memories. Good ones. But then I realized I really like you, too. You make me happy, Sara.”

“Y/N,” Sara said, her tone suddenly serious. “I need you to be honest with me. Do you want to be with me, or do you want to be with her?”

The question hung in the air, heavy and palpable. Y/N’s heart raced as she felt the weight of Sara’s gaze on her. “I want to be with you,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. “But I don’t want to hurt Patri. She’s been a big part of my life.”

“Sometimes you have to choose,” Sara replied, her eyes narrowing slightly, a hint of challenge in her voice. “If you’re serious about us, you need to cut ties with her. It’s not fair to either of us if you keep her in your life while trying to be with me.”

Y/N felt a pang of guilt wash over her. “I understand that, but it’s not that simple. We’ve known each other for so long, and I don’t want to lose her completely.”

“Do you think she’ll step aside if you’re not completely invested in this?” Sara pressed, her expression firm. “If you keep her around, it’ll always be an open door for you both. You deserve to be happy without that lingering uncertainty.”

Y/N looked down at her coffee, swirling the dark liquid with her spoon, her thoughts racing. “But what if I hurt her? What if she gets upset?”

“Then she’ll have to deal with it,” Sara said, her voice softening. “You have to prioritize your happiness. I’m not saying you should be cruel, but you need to be honest with both of you.”

Taking a deep breath, Y/N realized the truth in Sara’s words. “You’re right. I can’t keep dragging this out. I do want to be with you, but it means I have to let go of Patri for good.”

“Exactly,” Sara affirmed, reaching across the table to hold Y/N’s hand. “I’m glad you’re realizing that. It means you’re choosing me, and I appreciate your honesty.”

Y/N felt a mixture of fear and relief wash over her. “I’ll talk to her. I’ll make it clear that I’m with you now.”

Sara smiled, but there was still a hint of concern in her eyes. “Just remember, it’s not going to be easy. She might not take it well, and that’s okay. You have to do what’s best for you.”

“Yeah, I understand,” Y/N replied, squeezing Sara’s hand, feeling a surge of determination. “I’ll make it right. I don’t want to lose you.”

With a newfound clarity, Y/N knew what she had to do. As they finished their drinks, she felt a sense of resolve building within her. Yes, it would be difficult to face Patri, but it was time to take that step—time to choose a future with Sara.

Later that evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Y/N found herself pacing in her apartment, her mind racing with the upcoming conversation. The thought of facing Patri filled her with anxiety, but she steeled herself for what lay ahead.

She took a moment to gather her thoughts, reminding herself why this was necessary. She picked up her phone and typed a quick message to Patri, asking her to meet up. She felt a flutter of nerves in her stomach as she hit send, knowing the weight of the conversation that awaited them.

When the reply came through, it was quick and simple:

“Sure, when and where?”

Y/N took a deep breath and responded with a time and place—a small park near their training facility where they often hung out. It felt neutral, a space where they could talk without distractions.

As Y/N arrived at the park, she spotted Patri sitting on a bench, her expression unreadable. Patri looked up as Y/N approached, her brow furrowing slightly.

“Hey,” Y/N said, her voice steady but filled with apprehension.

“Hey,” Patri replied, her tone cautious. “What’s going on? You sounded serious in your message.”

Y/N sat down, feeling the weight of the moment settle between them. “I wanted to talk about us—about everything that’s been happening.”

Patri’s eyes narrowed slightly, and Y/N could see the tension radiating from her. “Okay… what about it?”

Taking a deep breath, Y/N gathered her courage. “I’ve started dating Sara, and I need you to know that it’s serious.”

Patri’s expression fell, and Y/N felt her heart ache at the disappointment in her eyes. “So that’s it? You’re just moving on?”

“It’s not that simple,” Y/N rushed to explain. “I didn’t want to hurt you, but I’ve been spending time with Sara, and we’ve really connected. I want to be with her.”

Silence stretched between them, and Y/N could see the internal struggle etched on Patri’s face. “But i thought we had something special, Y/N. You're my best friend. You can’t just throw that away.”

“I know,” Y/N said softly, her voice barely above a whisper. “But I’ve realized that I need to be honest with myself and with you. I can’t keep you in my life while trying to build something new with Sara. It’s not fair to any of us.”

Patri looked down, her jaw clenching as she absorbed the weight of Y/N’s words. “So what are you saying? That we’re done?”

Y/N nodded, her throat tightening. “I think it’s best if we cut ties. I don’t want to hurt you, but I need to move forward.”

For a moment, neither of them spoke. The reality of the situation hung heavy in the air, and Y/N could feel the tension crackling between them.

Finally, Patri looked up, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. “I can’t believe this is happening.”

“I’m so sorry,” Y/N said, her heart breaking at the sight of Patri’s pain. “I never wanted to hurt you. You mean so much to me, but I need to prioritize my happiness.”

Patri took a shaky breath, her expression a mixture of hurt and anger. “I just thought… I thought maybe we'd someday get a chance.”

“Maybe we would have, but it didn’t work out that way,” Y/N replied, her voice steady but gentle. “You deserve someone who can give you everything, not someone who’s torn between two paths.”

After a long silence, Patri finally nodded, her shoulders slumping. “I get it. I guess I just have to accept it.”

Y/N reached out, placing a comforting hand on Patri’s arm. “I’ll always care about you. You were my friend first, and I’ll always cherish that.”

Patri’s gaze dropped to the ground, and for a moment, Y/N felt as if they were both standing at a crossroads, the past slipping away like sand through their fingers.

“Just… don’t forget me,” Patri murmured, her voice barely audible.

“I could never forget you,” Y/N replied, her heart aching. “You’ve meant so much to me.”

As they sat in silence, the weight of their history pressed upon them, but Y/N felt a flicker of hope. She had made her choice, and though it hurt to say goodbye, she knew it was time to embrace her future with Sara.

After a grueling training session, Y/N plopped down on the bench beside Alexia, sweat dripping from her brow as she guzzled water. The team was cooling down, but today’s session felt especially intense. Alexia noticed the slump in Y/N’s posture and gave her a friendly nudge.

“You okay?” she asked, brow furrowing in concern. “You’ve seemed… a bit off lately.”

Y/N managed a weak smile. “Just tired, I think. It’s been a long week.”

Alexia nodded, glancing away for a moment before leaning back toward her. “Is everything good with Sara? I’ve noticed you’ve been a little distracted since you two got together.”

Y/N shrugged, keeping her eyes down. “Yeah, it’s just… you know, she’s really involved. She cares a lot.”

It was true—Sara had an intensity to her that Y/N found endearing at first. But lately, it had become more than just attentiveness. There was a constant need to check in, to know her schedule, to hear from her the second training ended. Even during team outings, Sara would text or call, and if Y/N missed the call, there would be a flood of messages asking where she was.

Just then, her phone buzzed, and Y/N instinctively reached for it. Sure enough, it was Sara.

Where are you? Did practice end? Are you going somewhere with the team afterward?

Alexia’s eyes flicked down to the screen, noticing the string of messages lighting up. “Is that her?”

Y/N nodded, her face slightly flushed. She typed out a quick response: Just finishing up with the team. I’ll call you when I’m on my way.

Once she sent it, she tried to shove her phone back into her bag, but the buzzing continued. Alexia’s brows knit together as she watched.

“Isn’t that… a bit much?” she ventured cautiously, trying not to pry but clearly concerned.

“She’s just making sure I’m okay,” Y/N mumbled, trying to brush it off. “I think she worries sometimes because of, you know, my past with Patri.”

“Worrying is one thing,” Alexia said gently, “but this seems… intense.”

Before Y/N could respond, Patri came over, catching the last snippet of the conversation. “Intense about what?”

Y/N gave her a look, hesitant to bring Patri into it, but Alexia chimed in. “Sara’s just been a bit… relentless lately, hasn’t she?”

Patri’s gaze flicked to Y/N, concern etched into her expression. “You sure that’s normal?”

Y/N rolled her eyes, feeling defensive. “It’s fine, really. She just cares a lot. Besides, it’s not like she’s telling me what I can or can’t do.”

But as the words left her mouth, she felt a pang of doubt. Over the past few weeks, Sara had made little comments here and there—about which teammates she didn’t like Y/N hanging around too much or the “late” nights Y/N spent with the team after games. Sara would subtly suggest she should be “more focused” and that “some friends aren’t looking out for her the way she does.”

It was always cloaked as concern, never an outright order, but Y/N felt the pressure all the same.

A few days later, the team gathered at a local restaurant to celebrate a recent win. Laughter filled the room as the players shared stories, but Y/N kept glancing at her phone, nerves gnawing at her. Sara had mentioned wanting to spend time with her tonight, and when Y/N told her about the team dinner, she hadn’t exactly been thrilled.

“Everything okay?” Mapi asked, noticing Y/N’s distraction.

Y/N forced a smile. “Yeah, yeah, just… checking messages.”

Just then, her phone vibrated with another message from Sara: I thought you were coming over after the game? Are you staying out late?

Y/N sighed, rubbing her temples as she replied: I’ll be home soon. Just finishing dinner with the team.

Ingrid, sitting across from Y/N, exchanged a glance with Mapi. “She texting you again?” Ingrid asked, her tone gentle but edged with concern.

“Yeah,” Y/N said with a sigh. “She just… gets anxious when I’m out.”

“Anxious or controlling?” Patri interjected quietly, her tone sharper than she’d intended. She softened when she saw the look on Y/N’s face. “I mean, does she trust you? Because it doesn’t seem like it.”

Y/N shifted uncomfortably in her seat. “She does. I think she just… needs reassurance sometimes. It’s probably because of our past conversations about you,” she added, looking directly at Patri. “I don’t think she’s totally comfortable with how close we used to be.”

Patri’s expression softened, but her voice was firm. “That’s no reason to make you feel like you’re walking on eggshells.”

Alexia, who had been listening, nodded in agreement. “She’s got to understand that we’re your team, Y/N. We’re practically family. If she can’t handle that, it’s her issue, not yours.”

Y/N’s phone buzzed again, and this time she didn’t bother to check it. Instead, she looked around the table at her teammates, their expressions filled with worry and protectiveness. For the first time, she felt a glimmer of doubt about her relationship with Sara—a feeling that maybe, just maybe, her teammates had a point.

As the evening wound down, Y/N decided to head home to avoid any further messages from Sara. She waved goodbye to her teammates, but Patri, noticing the slight slump in her shoulders, followed her outside.

“Wait up,” Patri called, catching Y/N just as she reached the curb. “Can we talk for a second?”

Y/N stopped, looking back at her, feeling the tension building in her chest. “What’s up?”

Patri hesitated, but she spoke with sincerity. “I don’t want to overstep, but I’m worried about you. We all are.”

“About me or about Sara?” Y/N asked, her voice sharper than she intended.

Patri shook her head. “About both of you. She’s… it seems like she’s isolating you, Y/N. I don’t want you to lose yourself in a relationship that doesn’t make you feel free.”

Y/N felt a mixture of anger and sadness rise within her. “I thought you’d be happy I finally moved on,” she said softly. “But instead, it feels like everyone’s questioning me.”

“I am happy for you if you’re happy,” Patri replied gently. “But you haven’t been yourself lately. We all see it. Just… don’t let someone control you, okay? You deserve better than that.”

For a moment, Y/N’s resolve wavered. Patri’s words hit close to home, stirring something she had been trying to ignore. “It’s not that simple, Patri,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. “I just want her to trust me.”

Patri placed a comforting hand on Y/N’s shoulder. “Then she has to earn that trust, not control you to feel secure. You shouldn’t have to prove yourself all the time.”

Y/N nodded slowly, feeling the weight of Patri’s words settle over her. She realized she had been bending over backward to make Sara feel secure, but in doing so, she had been losing herself. Maybe it was time to have a conversation with Sara—a real, honest conversation about boundaries and trust.

That night, as Y/N sat alone in her apartment, she replayed the evening’s events in her mind. Her teammates’ words echoed in her head, and for the first time, she allowed herself to question her relationship with Sara fully. It was scary to admit, but maybe Patri and the others were right.

The next time Sara called, Y/N didn’t rush to answer. Instead, she took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts, preparing herself for a difficult conversation she knew was long overdue.

Y/N took a deep breath, standing in front of her apartment door. She’d been rehearsing the words in her mind for hours, ready to finally confront Sara about how their relationship was affecting her.

When she stepped inside, Sara was already there, pacing anxiously. Her head snapped up when she heard Y/N walk in.

“Finally,” Sara sighed, crossing her arms. “Where were you?”

Y/N felt her stomach clench, but she steadied herself. “I went out with the team, Sara, like I told you I would. We had dinner to celebrate the win.”

Sara’s eyes narrowed, her jaw tightening. “I thought you’d come straight home. I was waiting for you.”

Y/N forced herself to remain calm. “Sara, we need to talk.”

The edge in her voice softened as she gestured for them to sit down. She hoped a calm approach might ease the tension, but Sara stayed standing, arms still crossed tightly across her chest.

“I can’t keep doing this,” Y/N began, trying to sound as steady as possible. “I care about you, but the way things have been lately… it’s not working for me. You’re always questioning me, wanting to know where I am, who I’m with. I need space, and I need you to trust me if we’re going to make this work.”

Sara’s face twisted with a mix of anger and disbelief. “So, what? You think I’m the problem here? That I’m overreacting because I actually care about you?” Her voice grew louder, echoing through the apartment.

Y/N raised her hands, trying to keep things calm. “I’m not saying you don’t care, but this doesn’t feel healthy. I shouldn’t be scared to go out with my teammates without you constantly checking up on me. That’s not fair to me, and it’s not fair to you, either.”

Sara’s face darkened. “So now you think I’m controlling?” she hissed, stepping closer. Her voice was low but laced with anger. “You’re going to sit here and make me out to be the bad guy?”

The tension escalated, and Y/N felt a creeping sense of dread. “Sara, please… I just need you to listen.”

But instead of listening, Sara’s anger boiled over. “After everything I’ve done for you, you want to turn around and leave me?”

She lashed out, shoving Y/N back a step. Shock and fear flared through Y/N, and she stumbled, catching herself on the edge of the table.

“Sara, stop!” she shouted, her voice trembling. “This isn’t okay!”

But Sara wasn’t stopping. Her voice grew louder, her movements sharper, and soon Y/N’s neighbors were knocking on the walls, their concern clear. “You don’t get to tell me what’s okay, Y/N! After everything, you don’t just get to walk away!”

The shouting continued until, finally, Y/N heard a pounding on the door. She could see her neighbors peering in through the crack as she backed away from Sara, her heart pounding in her chest. The next thing she knew, two officers were stepping into the apartment, separating her from Sara.

Mapi, Ingrid, and Alexia were driving back from dinner when they noticed the police lights flashing near Y/N’s apartment. Concern flashed across Alexia’s face as she pulled the car over.

“Isn’t that… Y/N’s building?” Mapi asked, her brow furrowing as she looked at Ingrid and Alexia.

Without another word, the three of them climbed out of the car and walked over, weaving through a small crowd of concerned neighbors. They saw Y/N standing outside, looking visibly shaken, with an officer speaking quietly to her. When she saw her teammates, her expression shifted, relief mixing with embarrassment.

“Y/N, are you okay?” Alexia asked, stepping closer and reaching out for her friend.

Y/N nodded, though her face was pale. “Yeah… I’m okay,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. She glanced toward the building, where Sara was being questioned by another officer. Her voice wavered as she added, “It… it got out of hand.”

Mapi exchanged a worried look with Ingrid. “Did she hurt you?” Ingrid asked, her voice laced with concern.

Y/N shook her head, though her hands trembled as she spoke. “No, it was just… a lot of yelling, and she… she got physical. The neighbors must have called.”

The officer beside Y/N cleared his throat. “We’ll be documenting this incident, Miss Y/L/N. If you feel threatened, you have options, including a restraining order. Just let us know how we can support you.”

Y/N nodded, struggling to keep herself together. She glanced back at Mapi, Ingrid, and Alexia, who were still looking at her with a mixture of concern and protectiveness.

“Come on,” Alexia said softly, wrapping an arm around Y/N’s shoulders. “You’re coming home with us tonight.”

Once back at Alexia’s apartment, Y/N collapsed onto the couch, the events of the night catching up to her. She buried her face in her hands, feeling a mix of shame, fear, and sadness. Mapi handed her a glass of water, sitting beside her while Ingrid and Alexia gave her space, letting her process everything.

After a few moments of silence, Y/N finally spoke. “I… I thought I could fix things. I thought if I just explained myself, she’d understand. But she was so angry, and I didn’t know what to do.”

Mapi placed a comforting hand on Y/N’s shoulder. “You don’t have to explain yourself to us, okay? What happened tonight wasn’t your fault.”

Y/N looked up, her eyes filled with a mixture of sadness and relief. “Thank you. I don’t know what I would have done if you guys hadn’t shown up.”

Ingrid reached out, squeezing Y/N’s hand gently. “We’re always here for you, no matter what. If you ever need anything, you just have to call.”

Y/N nodded, her heart swelling with gratitude as she took in the faces of her friends, their support an unexpected comfort in the aftermath of such a traumatic night.

For the first time in a while, she felt a weight lift from her shoulders. With her teammates by her side, she knew she wasn’t alone—and she wouldn’t let anyone make her feel that way again.

The morning light filtered through Y/N’s window, painting soft streaks of warmth across her apartment. She stood in front of her mirror, taking a deep breath. Today was the day she would file the restraining order. It had been a long, difficult journey to this point, and although she felt nervous, she knew it was the right thing to do. The memories of the past few months surfaced in her mind, but she pushed them aside. Today was about moving forward.

The previous night, her teammates had rallied around her, providing support and encouragement. They had assured her that she wasn’t alone, and that thought had given her strength. Even now, she felt a bit of the resolve she had found with them lingering, steadying her as she prepared to take the next steps.

The courthouse felt cold and impersonal as Y/N walked through the corridors, clutching a folder with all the necessary documents. Alexia had come along for support, standing beside her with a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

“You’re doing the right thing,” Alexia whispered as they waited outside the clerk’s office.

Y/N nodded, offering a small, appreciative smile. “I know. I just… I didn’t think things would end up like this.”

Alexia’s expression softened. “It’s hard to see it now, but things will get better. You’re giving yourself the space to heal, and that’s what matters.”

Once the paperwork was submitted, Y/N felt a strange weight lift off her chest. Though there were still challenges ahead, she felt as if she’d finally taken control of her life again. She left the courthouse with a sense of liberation, a subtle shift in her step as she walked back out into the world.

Y/N spent the next few weeks focusing on herself. She dedicated more time to training, finding solace in the routines that had once brought her joy. Early morning runs, solo practice sessions at the gym, and evenings spent journaling—all of it became part of her path to healing. She threw herself into her hobbies outside of soccer as well, finally picking up the guitar she’d neglected and even taking up sketching as a way to unwind.

She also made an effort to reconnect with friends, something she hadn’t realized she’d distanced herself from over the past months. Her teammates invited her out to dinners, hikes, and even movie nights. They were patient with her, sensing that she needed support without crowding her. Mapi, Ingrid, and Alexia were constant presences in her life, gently encouraging her whenever she faltered.

From a distance, Patri watched her with quiet admiration. She noticed Y/N’s strength, her determination to reclaim her happiness, and how resilient she truly was. Though her heart ached whenever she saw Y/N looking lost in thought, Patri respected the boundaries Y/N had set, giving her the space to focus on herself.

One afternoon at training, Y/N was focused on a drill, completely immersed in perfecting her footwork. As she went through the moves, she caught a glimpse of Patri watching her from across the pitch. Their eyes met, and for a moment, the world seemed to slow down. Y/N saw something unspoken in Patri’s gaze—a mixture of admiration, warmth, and a touch of sadness.

Patri offered her a small, encouraging smile, a silent nod of acknowledgment. In that brief exchange, Y/N felt a wave of comfort wash over her. There was no pressure, no expectation—just an unspoken understanding between them. She smiled back, a quiet gratitude in her expression.

As training progressed, Patri kept her distance, offering support from afar. She didn’t push or prod, and she didn’t make any attempts to rekindle their friendship. Instead, she simply let Y/N know, in her own way, that she was there, waiting patiently and respectfully.

One evening after training, Y/N sat on the balcony of her apartment, watching the city lights flicker as the sun set. She felt a strange sense of peace, a feeling that had eluded her for months. Her phone buzzed with a text from Alexia, inviting her out with the team for dinner, and for the first time in a while, she accepted without hesitation.

As she got ready, she glanced at the photos on her wall—pictures of her with her friends, her family, and her teammates. There was a quiet strength in her now, one that had been forged through the challenges she’d overcome. She realized that she was finally healing, and though she wasn’t completely there yet, she knew she was on the right path.

Later that night, when she walked into the restaurant and saw her teammates gathered around, laughing and enjoying themselves, Y/N felt a warmth she hadn’t felt in a long time. She smiled, genuinely this time, as her teammates greeted her with open arms.

And from across the table, Patri caught her eye again, giving her a small nod of approval. This time, Y/N didn’t look away. Instead, she held Patri’s gaze, a silent acknowledgment of the support she’d given her from afar, and a newfound appreciation blossoming within her heart.

For now, she would focus on herself, but perhaps—when the time was right—she’d be ready to let others in once more.

Y/N felt a sense of calm returning to her life. The weeks following her decision to prioritize her well-being had brought newfound clarity. She was stronger now, and though she still carried the scars of her experience, she felt proud of how far she’d come.

And as her heart started to heal, she noticed the people around her—especially Patri. Their friendship had been complicated, and after everything that had happened, Patri had kept her distance, honoring Y/N’s need for space. But lately, Y/N found herself missing the moments they’d shared, those brief conversations, and the quiet support they’d once offered each other.

It wasn’t long before they started finding themselves in the same spaces again, pulled together by training and team events. And slowly, something shifted.

One morning, Y/N arrived at the gym early, hoping to enjoy a quiet workout before the others arrived. As she stretched, she heard the sound of footsteps approaching, and when she looked up, there was Patri, already in her workout gear.

They shared a quick, slightly awkward smile. Patri nodded in greeting, her expression warm yet reserved.

“Mind if I join?” Patri asked, gesturing to the open space on the mat beside Y/N.

Y/N hesitated, but then she nodded, smiling softly. “Sure.”

They fell into a comfortable rhythm, working through their stretches and exercises in companionable silence. Occasionally, Y/N caught Patri glancing her way, a soft smile playing on her lips. It was a small gesture, but it brought a sense of ease that Y/N hadn’t felt in a long time.

After finishing a set, Y/N grabbed her water bottle and turned to Patri, a smirk forming. “Bet I can beat you at sprints.”

Patri raised an eyebrow, her eyes glinting with amusement. “Oh, you’re on.”

They spent the next few minutes racing each other across the gym, laughing and bantering as they went. The playful competition broke down the last remnants of tension between them, and by the time they were finished, Y/N felt like she was getting a piece of her old friendship back.

In the days that followed, Y/N and Patri began talking more frequently. It started with casual chats during practice, brief comments exchanged during water breaks, and the occasional inside joke shared from across the room. Slowly, Y/N found herself gravitating toward Patri, feeling that sense of ease and warmth return.

One evening, after a particularly intense training session, Y/N found herself lingering in the locker room. Most of the team had already left, but Patri was still there, gathering her things. Y/N took a breath and walked over, her heart beating a little faster than usual.

“Hey,” Y/N began, her voice soft. “I was thinking about getting something to eat. You wanna come?”

Patri’s eyes brightened, a small, hopeful smile spreading across her face. “I’d like that.”

They ended up at a small café, tucked away from the city’s usual buzz. Over hot tea and sandwiches, they talked about everything and nothing, catching up on lost time. Patri listened intently as Y/N shared the highlights of her recovery journey, offering her quiet support with every word.

At one point, Y/N paused, glancing at Patri with a hesitant smile. “Thank you, you know… for giving me the space to figure things out.”

Patri’s expression softened, her gaze gentle. “Of course, Y/N. I’d never want to push you. I just… I’m glad we’re here, talking like this.”

Y/N felt a warmth spread through her chest. “Me too.”

As the days went by, their friendship blossomed once more, built on a stronger foundation this time, one of mutual respect and patience. They started working together in drills, their teamwork growing naturally as if no time had passed. Their playful chemistry began to catch the attention of their teammates, who would exchange knowing smiles whenever they saw the two together.

During one particular scrimmage, Y/N and Patri were on opposing teams, their rivalry sparking laughter among their teammates as they playfully tried to one-up each other. At one point, Y/N managed to steal the ball from Patri, darting around her with a mischievous grin.

“Too slow!” she called over her shoulder.

Patri laughed, quick on her feet as she chased after Y/N. “We’ll see about that!”

Moments later, she caught up, skillfully intercepting the ball with a light touch and a triumphant smile. They shared a breathless laugh, and as their gazes met, there was an unspoken understanding between them. It felt like old times—only this time, there was no weight of the past between them.

After another long practice, Y/N found herself sitting outside on the team bus, waiting for the rest of the players to finish up. She was gazing out the window when she felt someone slide into the seat beside her.

“Mind if I sit?” Patri asked, her voice soft.

Y/N shook her head, smiling as Patri settled in next to her.

They sat in companionable silence, watching the lights of the city pass by. After a while, Patri glanced over, her gaze gentle but searching. “It’s good to have you back, Y/N,” she said quietly.

Y/N looked at her, a sense of peace washing over her. “It’s good to be back. I missed this… I missed us.”

Patri nodded, her smile tinged with a hint of emotion. “I did too. I’m here for you, whatever you need. Just know that.”

Y/N took a deep breath, feeling a renewed sense of gratitude for the friendship they’d managed to rebuild. In that moment, she realized that this bond, rekindled with such care and patience, was stronger than before.

For now, that was enough. And maybe—just maybe—they were ready for whatever the future held.

Weeks had passed since Y/N and Patri had found their way back to each other. With every passing day, their connection grew stronger. What had started as a friendship carefully rebuilt was shifting into something more, something unspoken but unmistakable.

It was a rainy afternoon in Barcelona, and the team was wrapping up an intense practice. As they made their way back inside, Y/N noticed Patri struggling to pull her hoodie over her head, her hands still wet from the rain.

“Here,” Y/N offered, stepping closer and gently tugging the hood over Patri’s head, making sure it covered her completely. Her fingers brushed against Patri’s cheek, lingering just a second too long.

Patri’s breath hitched, her eyes meeting Y/N’s with a spark of something more. She gave Y/N a shy, appreciative smile. “Thanks,” she murmured.

Y/N smiled back, feeling her heart race at the simple gesture. She pulled her hand away, trying to brush it off as casual, but the warmth in her cheeks betrayed her.

A few days later, Patri sent Y/N a text: Coffee after training? Just us?

Y/N didn’t hesitate to accept, and soon they found themselves at a small café by the beach. It was cozy and quiet, with only a few other patrons, and the view of the waves provided the perfect backdrop.

As they sipped their drinks, their conversation shifted from soccer and shared memories to more personal topics—their dreams, things they’d never told anyone else, vulnerabilities they hadn’t shown before. Y/N found herself opening up in ways she hadn’t anticipated, sharing parts of herself she had long kept guarded.

At one point, Patri leaned closer, her expression soft. “You know… you’ve changed a lot, Y/N. You’re stronger, more grounded. It’s beautiful to see.”

Y/N’s heart fluttered, her cheeks heating up at Patri’s compliment. “I had a lot of help,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. “You were part of that.”

Patri smiled, her eyes twinkling with a quiet understanding. They sat in comfortable silence, and Y/N couldn’t help but feel that this moment, sitting here with Patri, felt different—deeper, as though they were both waiting for something to happen, both silently willing it to.

During a particularly tense match, Y/N had taken a hit that left her limping slightly. She brushed it off, not wanting to make a big deal, but Patri noticed right away, rushing to her side.

“Are you okay?” Patri asked, her face etched with worry.

“Yeah, it’s nothing serious,” Y/N assured her, though her leg throbbed with every step.

After the match, Patri refused to let Y/N leave without getting checked by the team doctor. “Come on, you’re not walking out of here like that. Sit down and let them take a look.”

Y/N chuckled but complied, touched by Patri’s concern. As the doctor checked her leg, Y/N caught Patri’s gaze from across the room, a mix of affection and something more in her eyes. It felt as if, with each shared look, they were both realizing the depth of their feelings, acknowledging what they’d both been skirting around.

Later, as they left the stadium together, Y/N glanced over at Patri, feeling a surge of affection she couldn’t quite suppress. “Thanks for looking out for me.”

Patri shrugged, smiling softly. “Someone has to. Plus, I can’t have my favorite teammate getting hurt.”

The words hung in the air, both of them feeling the weight of the meaning behind them. Y/N’s heart raced, her mind spinning with possibilities. She wanted to say something, to tell Patri what she’d been feeling, but the words wouldn’t come. Instead, she reached out, intertwining her fingers with Patri’s in a quiet but profound gesture.

Patri glanced down, her cheeks flushing, but she didn’t pull away. Instead, she squeezed Y/N’s hand gently, her eyes warm and full of unspoken promises.

A week later, the team decided to go out to celebrate a big win. They ended up at a small rooftop bar, the city lights twinkling around them as they danced and laughed. Y/N and Patri stayed close, finding themselves pulled together in every moment, whether it was dancing, laughing at inside jokes, or sharing stolen glances across the room.

At one point, they found themselves alone on the balcony, the city stretching out below them in a sea of lights. Y/N leaned against the railing, her gaze drifting to Patri, who was standing beside her, a soft smile on her face.

“This feels nice,” Y/N murmured, her voice barely audible above the hum of the city.

Patri turned to her, her eyes bright. “It does. I missed this… missed being close to you.”

Y/N’s heart pounded as she looked at Patri, the weight of her words settling in. She took a shaky breath, finally gathering the courage to say what had been on her mind. “Patri, I—”

But before she could finish, Patri’s hand found hers, giving it a gentle squeeze. “You don’t have to say anything, Y/N. I feel it too.”

They stood in silence, the unspoken words filling the space between them, drawing them closer. Y/N took a step forward, her hand brushing against Patri’s cheek as she leaned in, her heart racing with anticipation.

Their lips met in a soft, tentative kiss, both of them lingering in the moment as if they’d been waiting for it forever. When they pulled back, they shared a quiet, breathless laugh, both feeling a mixture of exhilaration and relief.

“It took us a while, didn’t it?” Patri whispered, her eyes shining.

Y/N smiled, tucking a strand of hair behind Patri’s ear. “Better late than never.”

They stayed there on the balcony, wrapped in each other’s arms, basking in the feeling of finally letting down their walls and allowing themselves to fall into each other completely. And for the first time in a long time, Y/N felt a profound sense of happiness, knowing that whatever came next, they would face it together.

After the rooftop confession, things between Y/N and Patri only grew more affectionate. Each glance lingered a little longer, and every small gesture between them carried newfound meaning. They hadn’t labeled their relationship yet, but they knew that what they had was deeper than friendship. And that was enough—for now.

But Patri couldn’t ignore the gnawing desire to make things official. She wanted to know, beyond a doubt, that they were together, committed to each other. She wanted to call Y/N her girlfriend.

The idea of asking Y/N to be her girlfriend made Patri nervous, more than she’d care to admit. She spent the entire morning pacing her apartment, rehearsing what she wanted to say. Even her dog, Hugo, sat watching her with a confused look, as if wondering why she was so on edge.

Finally, with her nerves settled as best they could be, Patri decided to ask Y/N out for dinner that evening at a cozy restaurant by the beach. She picked a time and place she knew Y/N would love, hoping the atmosphere would make everything feel right.

Y/N arrived at the restaurant, her heart fluttering with excitement as she spotted Patri waiting outside, looking slightly fidgety but undeniably stunning. Patri’s face lit up as she saw Y/N approach, and she reached out to take her hand.

“You look beautiful,” Patri said, her voice soft.

Y/N smiled, blushing slightly. “So do you.”

They walked into the restaurant, the warm glow of candlelight surrounding them. The dinner was perfect—filled with laughter, shared stories, and quiet moments where they simply enjoyed each other’s presence. They’d been so close over the past few weeks, but tonight felt different, like there was something even more meaningful simmering between them.

When the dessert came, Patri’s hands were slightly shaky. She took a deep breath, her heart pounding as she looked across the table at Y/N.

“Y/N,” Patri began, her voice softer than usual, “there’s something I wanted to ask you.”

Y/N tilted her head, her expression warm and curious. “Go on.”

Patri took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts as she reached across the table to take Y/N’s hand in hers. “These last few weeks with you… they’ve been amazing. And I know we haven’t really talked about… us, but I’d like to. I want to know what we are, and I want you to know how much you mean to me.”

Y/N squeezed her hand, her eyes softening. “You mean a lot to me too, Patri.”

Patri swallowed, her voice wavering with a mixture of excitement and nerves. “Would you… would you be my girlfriend?”

Y/N’s face lit up, her eyes sparkling with joy as she let out a soft laugh of relief. “I thought you’d never ask.”

They both laughed, and Y/N stood, moving around the table to pull Patri into a tight hug. Patri wrapped her arms around Y/N, closing her eyes as she breathed in the moment, feeling an overwhelming sense of happiness.

“Of course, I’ll be your girlfriend,” Y/N whispered into her ear.

Patri pulled back slightly, her hands resting on Y/N’s waist as she gazed into her eyes. “I don’t want there to be any doubt about us. I want everyone to know I’m yours.”

Y/N grinned, her fingers tracing lightly over Patri’s cheek. “I like the sound of that. You’re mine, and I’m yours.”

After dinner, they decided to take a stroll along the beach, hand in hand. The stars were bright overhead, casting a silvery glow over the waves. They walked in comfortable silence, simply enjoying each other’s presence, the warmth of their hands intertwined.

At one point, Patri stopped, turning to face Y/N, a soft smile on her lips. “You make me so happy, Y/N.”

Y/N’s eyes sparkled as she gazed back at her, a blush creeping onto her cheeks. “I don’t think I’ve ever felt like this before.”

Patri leaned in, her lips brushing softly against Y/N’s. It was a gentle, lingering kiss, filled with a tenderness that seemed to seal everything they’d just shared. When they pulled back, they were both grinning, hearts racing.

They continued their walk, sharing quiet laughter and stolen kisses along the way, both of them basking in the joy of finally being together, officially. As they reached the end of the beach, Y/N pulled Patri close, wrapping her arms around her as they gazed out at the waves.

“I’m so glad we found our way here,” Y/N murmured, resting her head against Patri’s shoulder.

“Me too,” Patri replied softly, her hand tracing gentle patterns along Y/N’s back. “I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

They stayed there for a while, holding each other as the ocean waves crashed in the background, both of them knowing that they were exactly where they were meant to be—together.

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The End

@lovewomensfootball

[millyh23]

Seams of Ambition

Word count: 11.7k

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Katie McCabe’s birthday had arrived, and the Arsenal locker room was buzzing with excitement. The air was filled with the anticipation of celebrating the team’s most fiery and fun-loving player. Everyone had prepared thoughtful gifts—trinkets and items they knew Katie would appreciate. Y/N, the newest and youngest transfer, sat quietly in her corner, feeling a little out of place. She hadn’t been at the club long enough to know exactly what Katie liked outside of football, and she’d been struggling for days to figure out the perfect gift.

Being a naturally quiet and private person, Y/N hadn’t shared much about herself with the team. Sure, she was talented on the pitch and had impressed during training, but outside of football, she was a mystery. Little did they know, Y/N had a secret that no one at Arsenal had uncovered yet.

After practice, everyone gathered in the lounge area, where a small celebration was set up for Katie’s birthday. There was cake, drinks, and laughter echoing through the room. Katie sat in the middle, grinning from ear to ear as she opened gifts from her teammates, each one bringing more joy than the last.

When it was finally Y/N’s turn, she nervously handed Katie a sleek black gift box wrapped with a minimalist bow. She hadn’t overthought it, but the pressure of being new made her wonder if she should’ve gone with something more personal.

“Thanks, Y/N,” Katie said with her usual warm smile, clearly trying to make her feel welcome. “You didn’t have to get me anything.”

Y/N simply nodded, not wanting to draw any more attention to herself than necessary.

Katie untied the ribbon and flipped open the box, her eyes widening as she pulled out an oversized black hoodie with striking white embroidery on the front. It was a design unlike anything she’d ever seen before—cool, edgy, and impeccably detailed.

“Holy sh—this is incredible,” Katie gasped, holding the hoodie up to get a better look. “This is from Immortal!”

The entire room suddenly fell silent. Everyone stared at the piece of clothing in Katie’s hands, their jaws dropping. Immortal was one of the hottest streetwear brands in the world, known for its limited releases and jaw-dropping prices. A single hoodie from them could easily set someone back several thousand pounds.

“Wait, you got her Immortal?” Leah Williamson asked, blinking in disbelief. “How on earth did you manage that?”

Y/N shrugged casually, a small smirk playing on her lips. “I didn’t really know what to get, so I just gave her one of my pieces.”

“One of your pieces?” Vivianne Miedema echoed, her brow furrowed in confusion.

Y/N glanced around at her teammates, realizing they still didn’t get it. “Yeah… It’s my brand.”

The silence that followed was almost comical. Everyone stared at her, eyes wide as they processed what she’d just said.

“Wait, wait, wait.” Beth Mead burst out laughing, unable to believe it. “You’re telling me you own Immortal? The brand that celebrities can’t even get their hands on?”

Y/N nodded, completely unfazed by their shock. “Yeah. I started it when I was 16. It just kinda blew up from there.”

The room erupted in disbelief, with everyone talking over each other in excitement. Leah and Viv looked at each other, trying to wrap their heads around the fact that their new teammate was not only a football prodigy but also the brains behind one of the most exclusive fashion labels in the world.

“No way,” Katie said, standing up to properly admire the hoodie. “This is insane, Y/N. How did you even manage to keep this a secret?”

Y/N chuckled, rubbing the back of her neck awkwardly. “I don’t really talk about it much. It’s just something I do on the side.”

“On the side?!” Alessia Russo exclaimed. “This is huge! Why didn’t you tell anyone?”

Y/N shrugged again. “Didn’t think it was important. We’re all here to play football, right?”

The team stared at her like she had two heads, but in true Arsenal fashion, the surprise quickly turned into admiration. They bombarded her with questions, demanding to know how she managed to juggle running a global brand while playing professional football.

“Wait, so when’s the next drop?” Katie asked, her eyes twinkling. “I’ve gotta get in on this before it sells out.”

Y/N grinned. “I’ll hook you up. Don’t worry.”

“Well, I feel like my gift’s completely outclassed now,” Leah joked, shaking her head. “Who knew we had a secret fashion mogul in our squad?”

As the laughter continued, Y/N couldn’t help but feel more at ease. It had been a risky move, revealing her secret, but seeing the team’s positive reaction made her feel like she’d finally found her place among them.

“Alright, alright, no more questions about my brand,” Y/N said, standing up. “This is Katie’s day. Let’s focus on celebrating her.”

Katie slung an arm around Y/N’s shoulders, pulling her into a side hug. “Nah, this is your day too, mate. You just became the coolest person in this room.”

Y/N chuckled, her usual reserved nature melting away under the warmth of her new teammates’ acceptance. “Thanks, Katie. Happy birthday.”

And as the celebration continued, with everyone gushing over the hoodie and planning to beg Y/N for more gear, she couldn’t help but smile. Being at Arsenal was already feeling like home—and now, she wasn’t just the new transfer. She was Y/N, the player who had taken the football world and the fashion world by storm.

As the laughter and birthday festivities continued, Y/N found herself enjoying the team’s company more than ever. She hadn’t planned on revealing her secret, but now that it was out, the weight of keeping it hidden was lifted. Plus, seeing how excited the team was about her brand made her feel more connected with them.

As the chatter continued, a thought struck her, and she leaned back on the couch, watching the girls animatedly talk about Immortal.

“You know…” Y/N began, her voice casual but catching the attention of a few of her teammates. “I’ve been planning an ad campaign for the next drop.”

The room quieted down slightly as the girls turned to look at her with interest. Leah raised an eyebrow, catching on to where this was going. “Oh yeah?”

Y/N nodded, her lips curving into a sly smile. “Yeah. I was thinking it could be cool to have a few footballers involved—people who actually know how to move in the clothes, not just stand around looking pretty.”

Katie perked up immediately, a grin spreading across her face. “You saying we’re not pretty, Y/N?”

Y/N laughed, shaking her head. “Nah, Katie, you’re gorgeous, don’t worry. But I mean—imagine some of you modeling the new collection, showing off how it looks in action. You know, like moving around, doing some tricks, making it feel real.”

Leah crossed her arms, already intrigued. “You want us to model for you?”

“Yeah, why not?” Y/N shrugged like it was no big deal, but her excitement was obvious. “You’re all familiar with the brand now. And I’ve seen how some of you dress outside of training. You’d fit right in with the vibe I’m going for.”

The room erupted again with a mix of excitement and disbelief.

“You’re serious?” Katie asked, her eyes practically sparkling at the idea. “You want us to be in an ad for Immortal? That’s massive!”

Y/N nodded. “Dead serious. I’ve been looking for people who’d bring the energy I want, and who better than you lot?”

Leah, who always had an eye for fashion herself, looked intrigued. “What would it involve?”

“Just a photoshoot and a short video campaign,” Y/N explained. “Something to show how the clothes hold up under movement, some lifestyle shots too. We’d keep it casual, nothing over the top. You’d just be doing what you do best—being yourselves.”

Katie, still holding her new hoodie, grinned like a kid at Christmas. “Alright, I’m in. I want first dibs on the new gear, though.”

Beth laughed from the other side of the room. “You better give us all free clothes after this, Y/N!”

“Don’t worry,” Y/N replied, chuckling. “You’ll all get your pick.”

Leah leaned forward, excitement gleaming in her eyes. “Count me in too. This sounds epic.”

Beth, Viv, and Alessia quickly chimed in with their agreement, clearly excited at the prospect of modeling for Y/N’s brand. The idea of blending their love for football with street fashion was something none of them had expected but now couldn’t wait to be a part of.

Y/N smiled, feeling a sense of pride and belonging she hadn’t felt in a long time. “Alright, then. Let’s do it.”

Katie clapped her hands together, grinning widely. “I’m already thinking about my poses.”

Y/N rolled her eyes with a smile. “Just make sure you look good in the clothes and don’t steal the spotlight.”

“Oh please, Y/N, you know I was born for the spotlight,” Katie teased, tossing the hoodie over her shoulder with dramatic flair.

The rest of the team laughed, and Y/N felt the warmth of camaraderie wash over her. It was no longer just about fitting in at Arsenal—she was building real friendships, and now, they were about to share another part of her life.

A few days later, Y/N arranged for the photoshoot at a sleek warehouse-style studio in London. The setting was perfect—industrial, modern, and in line with the edgy aesthetic of Immortal. The girls arrived excited, dressed in their fresh new pieces from Y/N’s upcoming collection. Oversized hoodies, cropped jackets, joggers, and bold accessories—they looked every bit the part of a streetwear campaign.

Y/N watched as her teammates took to the camera like pros. Leah was effortlessly cool, flashing her trademark smirk, while Katie went full energy mode, making the photographer laugh with her playful poses. Viv and Alessia leaned into the more laid-back vibe, while Beth threw in a few trick shots with a football to show off the functionality of the clothes.

“This is insane,” Leah said during a break, grinning at Y/N. “I feel like a proper model.”

“You look like one too,” Y/N teased, nudging her. “You lot are killing it.”

Katie swaggered over, spinning a football on her finger. “When this ad drops, we’re going to break the internet. Arsenal, fashion, and football—what more could people want?”

Y/N laughed, her heart swelling with pride. “You’re right. This is going to be huge.”

As the shoot wrapped up, and the girls exchanged jokes and compliments, Y/N realized how much things had changed since her arrival. She had come to Arsenal as just a new player, a young transfer, but now she was a part of something bigger. Her brand, her football career, and her friendships were all coming together in ways she hadn’t anticipated.

“Alright,” Y/N said as the girls gathered their things, still buzzing from the shoot. “Next time you see yourselves on a billboard wearing Immortal, just remember—it’s all because of me.”

Katie laughed, throwing an arm around Y/N’s shoulders. “You might’ve started this, Y/N, but we’re definitely the ones who are going to sell it.”

Y/N grinned. “Fair enough. Just don’t forget where the free clothes come from.”

The team laughed, and as they headed out of the studio, Y/N couldn’t help but smile. Arsenal wasn’t just her team anymore—it was her family. And now, they were part of her brand’s story too.

As the team left the studio, buzzing with excitement from the shoot, Y/N couldn't help but feel a rush of contentment. The photoshoot had gone better than she’d imagined, and seeing her teammates so effortlessly embody the essence of her brand filled her with pride. They had no idea how much their support meant to her, and now, she was even more excited for the future of Immortal.

A few days passed, and the buzz around the shoot continued to grow among the team. Katie, of course, couldn’t stop bragging about the fact that she was now not just a footballer but a “fashion icon” too, as she dramatically put it. She had practically worn the Immortal hoodie everywhere since the shoot.

During a team breakfast one morning, as the girls sat around the cafeteria table, Leah was scrolling through her phone and grinning at something.

“Oi, Y/N,” Leah called, catching Y/N’s attention as she bit into a piece of toast. “Did you see this yet?”

Y/N raised an eyebrow. “See what?”

Leah held up her phone, revealing an early sneak peek of the campaign images that had been sent out to the Immortal email subscribers. Katie, Leah, Viv, Beth, and Alessia were all featured in different shots, looking effortlessly cool in Y/N’s designs.

“You look badass,” Leah said with a grin, pointing at her own image. “Look at me. I’m a model now.”

The girls leaned over to see the images, gathering around Leah’s phone with excited murmurs.

“Wait, is this live already?” Katie asked, her eyes wide. “I thought we’d have more time before this hit the internet!”

Y/N chuckled, shaking her head. “Nah, those are just preview shots. The real launch is next week. But I had to give the subscribers something to hype them up.”

“I’m not gonna lie,” Alessia said, still staring at the photos. “We look incredible. You’re about to break the fashion world, Y/N.”

Beth chimed in, smirking. “And the football world too, when they realize we’re basically models now.”

The team erupted in laughter, and Katie playfully tossed her napkin at Beth. “As long as I’m the face of the brand, we’re good.”

“Oh, is that right?” Y/N teased, raising an eyebrow. “I think you’ve already taken over enough with that hoodie, Katie.”

Katie gave her a cheeky grin, tugging at the hoodie she still hadn’t taken off. “What can I say? It’s comfy.”

“Comfy and expensive,” Viv added with a smirk. “Y/N, you’re going to ruin us all with how much we’re going to want from your next collection.”

Y/N laughed. “Don’t worry, I’ll keep you all hooked up.”

The conversation flowed easily, with the girls still buzzing about the campaign and their newfound status as fashion models. It wasn’t long before Jonas Eidevall, Arsenal’s manager, strolled into the cafeteria. His usual no-nonsense expression softened when he saw the team gathered together, laughing and chatting.

“Good morning, ladies,” he greeted them, grabbing a cup of coffee.

“Morning, coach,” they all chorused, but Katie wasn’t about to miss her chance to share the news.

“Coach, you have to check this out,” she said, turning her phone screen toward Jonas, showing him the preview images from the shoot. “We’re officially fashion models now.”

Jonas gave them an amused look, sipping his coffee. “Fashion models, huh? Is this why I keep seeing those hoodies around? You’re all part of Y/N’s brand now?”

Y/N tried to downplay it, shrugging with a small smile. “It was just a fun campaign.”

Jonas raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. “I didn’t realize we had a fashion mogul in our ranks. Should I be worried that you’ll all switch careers?”

The team laughed, and Y/N shook her head. “Don’t worry, coach. Football comes first.”

“Glad to hear it,” Jonas said with a chuckle. “But I’ll say, it’s impressive what you’ve done with the brand, Y/N. It takes a lot of work to balance something like that with a professional football career.”

Y/N felt a wave of pride wash over her at the compliment. It wasn’t every day that she received recognition for her work outside of football, and hearing it from her manager made it all the more meaningful.

“Thanks, coach,” she replied, feeling her teammates' supportive gazes on her.

As Jonas walked away to take his coffee elsewhere, Katie turned to Y/N with a proud smile. “Look at you, getting compliments from the boss. You’re killing it, Y/N.”

Y/N chuckled, trying to brush off the attention. “It’s just a side thing.”

“Oh, please,” Leah teased, “stop being so humble. This is massive, and you know it.”

The girls continued their conversation, hyping up Y/N more than she could handle, when suddenly a notification buzzed on her phone. She glanced down and her eyes widened slightly.

“The preview just went live,” Y/N said, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Oh my god!” Beth practically squealed. “Everyone’s gonna see this now.”

Seconds later, a flood of comments and messages started coming in from her brand’s social media. Fans were going wild, especially since Immortal had teased the involvement of Arsenal players in the campaign. Photos of Katie, Leah, and the others were already making rounds online, and the excitement was palpable.

Y/N leaned back in her chair, watching the chaos unfold as her teammates excitedly checked their phones, reacting to the flood of comments. She couldn’t help but smile at the whirlwind of excitement around her. This campaign was going to be bigger than she’d anticipated, and she was glad she had her teammates by her side for the ride.

Katie, of course, was the loudest, shouting to anyone who would listen. “I’m famous! Look at me, Arsenal’s number one model!”

Y/N rolled her eyes playfully, leaning over to Katie. “You’re insufferable, you know that?”

Katie slung an arm around Y/N’s shoulder, pulling her into a side hug. “And you love it. Admit it, Y/N, this campaign wouldn’t be half as cool without me.”

Y/N couldn’t help but laugh. “Alright, I’ll give you that. But don’t let it go to your head.”

“Too late for that!” Katie shouted, making the whole team laugh again.

As the team celebrated their newfound fame in the fashion world, Y/N realized just how far she’d come in such a short time. Not only had she found her place at Arsenal, but she had also shared a part of herself with her new teammates—a part that she hadn’t even been sure they’d care about. And now, they were fully on board, embracing her passion with the same energy they brought to the pitch every day.

For the first time, Y/N felt like she wasn’t just the new girl anymore. She was truly part of the Arsenal family.

The next morning, Y/N walked into the Arsenal training center with her usual laid-back swagger. She was already feeling the weight of her phone vibrating in her pocket, notifications flooding in from her brand’s social media. It was a lot to take in, but she was buzzing with excitement. The campaign had taken off like wildfire, and she couldn’t have asked for a better response from fans or her teammates.

As she strolled into the cafeteria, she found most of the team gathered around the breakfast table, laughing and chatting. Katie was, as usual, at the center of it all, gesticulating wildly as she told some story Y/N didn’t catch the beginning of. Alessia and Leah were both giggling beside her, while Beth and Viv watched with amused smiles.

“Y/N! The star of the show!” Leah called out when she saw her, waving her over to their table.

“Oi, come sit,” Katie added, patting the empty chair beside her. “You missed the best part of my story.”

Y/N smirked and slid into the seat, playfully bumping her shoulder against Katie’s. “I’m sure it was riveting.”

Katie rolled her eyes but grinned. “You’re lucky you missed it; I’ll save the details for later.”

As Y/N grabbed some breakfast, she casually brought up something she had been mulling over all night. “So, I was thinking about the next step for Immortal.”

The table went quiet with interest, and everyone’s eyes were on her.

“I want to drop an exclusive line in collaboration with one of you,” Y/N said, nonchalantly sipping her coffee. “Something custom, something that really fits your vibe.”

Instantly, the table erupted into chaos.

Leah, Alessia, Beth, and Katie all started talking over each other, vying for Y/N’s attention.

“Obviously, it should be me,” Leah said, leaning forward, her tone teasing but with a competitive edge. “I’ve got the perfect aesthetic. Sporty and clean, you know? It’s what your brand needs.”

“Nah, nah, nah,” Katie interrupted, her voice loud and confident as usual. “You’ve got to do it with me. Think about it—bold, unapologetic, fearless. I’m literally the face of this brand already.”

Beth chimed in, her smile mischievous. “I’d bring a bit of chill energy, you know? Something for the laid-back fans, the ones who want comfort without compromising style.”

“And I’m telling you,” Alessia cut in, pointing to herself, “a collaboration with me would be killer. I’ve got that girl-next-door thing going on. People would eat it up.”

Y/N watched the chaos unfold, trying to stifle her laughter as her teammates pitched themselves one after the other. They were all so animated, throwing out ideas and trying to convince her why they’d be the perfect collaborator.

Katie, of course, was the loudest, almost standing up in her seat as she went on about how much influence she’d bring to the brand. “Come on, Y/N, you know I’m the obvious choice. Imagine it—McCabe x Immortal. Has a nice ring to it, don’t you think?”

Y/N chuckled, looking around at the group. “You guys are really making this hard.”

Before she could say anything else, Kyra wandered into the cafeteria, grabbing a banana from the counter. She hadn’t been part of the pitch battle yet and seemed oblivious to what was going on.

Leah leaned over toward Y/N, lowering her voice with a smirk. “You know if you pick Katie, we’ll never hear the end of it, right?”

Y/N rolled her eyes good-naturedly, knowing Leah was probably right. But as she watched Kyra casually walking past the table, her mind sparked with an idea.

“Hey, Kyra,” Y/N called out, causing her to stop mid-step.

Kyra raised an eyebrow, looking a little confused but amused. “Yeah?”

Y/N leaned back in her chair, a smirk tugging at her lips. “How do you feel about doing a custom line with Immortal?”

The room went dead silent. All eyes snapped to Kyra, whose expression morphed from confusion to surprise in an instant.

“Me?” she asked, pointing to herself. “You’re serious?”

Y/N nodded. “Yeah, you’ve got a unique style. I think we could come up with something sick together. What do you think?”

Kyra blinked a few times, then broke into a grin. “Hell yeah! I’d love to!”

The rest of the table stared in stunned silence, and the moment the reality sank in, Katie’s jaw dropped.

“What?” Katie spluttered, glaring at Y/N like she’d been betrayed. “You picked Kyra? What about me? We’ve been best mates for years! I’m the obvious choice!”

Leah snorted, covering her mouth to stifle her laughter, while Beth and Alessia exchanged amused looks.

Y/N gave Katie a calm smile, trying not to laugh at how genuinely offended she seemed. “It’s not like I won’t do something with you eventually, Katie. I just thought Kyra’s vibe would be perfect for this particular line. Plus, she hasn’t been hounding me about it like someone has.”

Katie crossed her arms, pouting in her seat. “You’re breaking my heart, Y/N. I thought we had something special.”

Y/N snickered, leaning over to nudge her playfully. “Don’t be dramatic. You’ll get your moment.”

But Katie wasn’t letting it go. She turned to Kyra, narrowing her eyes. “You better not screw this up, Kyra.”

Kyra, now fully caught up in the moment, just grinned at Katie. “Don’t worry, McCabe. I’ll do the brand justice.”

Katie muttered something under her breath, still pouting as the rest of the table laughed at her over-the-top reaction. Leah and Alessia were practically crying from laughter, while Beth was already planning how she could poke fun at Katie later.

“You’re so jealous, Katie,” Leah teased, wiping a tear from her eye. “It’s actually hilarious.”

“I’m not jealous,” Katie shot back, though the fire in her eyes told a different story. “I’m just saying it should’ve been me. You’ll regret this, Y/N.”

Y/N raised her hands in mock surrender. “Okay, okay, maybe next time. But for now, it’s Kyra’s turn.”

Kyra beamed, sitting down beside Y/N and slinging an arm around her shoulders. “Don’t worry, Y/N. We’re gonna kill this collab.”

Katie huffed dramatically, but there was a playful glint in her eye now. “Fine, whatever. But if you make a second collab without me, we’re done.”

“Deal,” Y/N said with a grin, enjoying every second of Katie’s theatrics.

The rest of breakfast was filled with teasing banter, and despite Katie’s initial jealousy, she couldn’t stay mad for long. The excitement over the potential collaboration with Kyra soon took over the conversation, and by the end of the meal, even Katie was throwing in ideas for what Kyra’s line could look like.

But as they left the table, Y/N couldn’t resist leaning over to Katie and whispering, “Don’t worry, I’ve got something special planned for you. Just wait.”

Katie’s pout disappeared, replaced with a sly smile. “You better, Y/N.”

As the team headed off to training, Y/N couldn’t help but feel a wave of excitement for what was to come. The collab with Kyra was going to be epic, but she also knew Katie wouldn’t let her forget that her time in the spotlight was still coming.

The collaboration with Kyra had been a massive success, with Immortal’s custom line selling out within hours of its release. The bold, daring designs had been a perfect reflection of Kyra’s personality, and the fans had loved it. But, as promised, Y/N hadn’t forgotten about Katie. In fact, ever since Katie’s dramatic reaction at breakfast, Y/N had been brainstorming ideas for what their collaboration would look like.

She wanted it to be something special, something that reflected not just Katie’s style but her fiery personality and leadership on the pitch. And, after weeks of planning, the perfect concept had come to mind: Fearless.

Now, it was time to pitch the idea to Katie.

Y/N found her sitting in the locker room after a particularly grueling training session. Katie was sprawled out on one of the benches, half-drinking from a water bottle while chatting with Leah, who was equally wiped out. The sight made Y/N smile—Katie looked so relaxed compared to her usual high-energy self.

“Katie, you got a minute?” Y/N asked, leaning against the doorframe.

Katie glanced up, her face lighting up instantly. “Finally! I’ve been waiting for this. What do you have for me?”

Leah nudged Katie with a smirk. “I’ll leave you two to it. Can’t wait to see what Y/N comes up with this time.”

With a wink, Leah left the room, leaving Y/N and Katie alone. Y/N walked over, sitting beside Katie on the bench and pulling out a folder filled with sketches and mood boards.

“Alright,” Y/N started, “I’ve been thinking a lot about what our collab should look like. I want it to be something bold, something that screams Katie McCabe. You’re fearless, both on and off the pitch, and I want this line to reflect that.”

Katie’s eyes sparkled with excitement as she sat up straighter. “Go on…”

Y/N opened the folder, revealing the first set of designs. The theme was striking—sharp, clean lines with edgy details like ripped denim, leather accents, and bold color schemes. The central piece was a black leather jacket with “Fearless” embroidered on the back in fiery red letters, alongside an abstract design that looked like flames.

“I’m calling it the Fearless collection,” Y/N explained. “It’s inspired by your personality. The kind of confidence and boldness you have when you step onto the pitch. I want people to feel unstoppable when they wear this.”

Katie’s jaw dropped as she flipped through the designs, her hands running over the sketches like she couldn’t believe what she was seeing.

“Y/N… this is unreal,” Katie muttered, clearly in awe. “This is exactly what I wanted, but better. The jacket, the color palette—it’s so me.”

Y/N smirked. “I know, right? I thought it’d be perfect. We’ll also have custom cleats, streetwear pieces, and accessories. All of it ties into that fearless energy you bring every day.”

Katie was quiet for a moment, still taking it all in, but Y/N could tell she was thrilled. Finally, she looked up, her usual cocky grin returning.

“You nailed it,” Katie said, standing up and pulling Y/N into a hug. “This is gonna be epic. The fans are going to lose their minds.”

Y/N hugged her back, laughing at how excited Katie was. “I’m glad you love it. Now, I just need you to model a few pieces for the promo shoot.”

Katie pulled back, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “You mean I get to show off? Count me in.”

A few days later, the team gathered in the studio for the Fearless collection shoot. Katie was buzzing with energy, strutting around the set in the pieces from her collection. She was wearing the signature leather jacket, paired with ripped black jeans and boots that screamed “badass.”

The other players were there, too, watching the shoot unfold. Leah, Alessia, Kyra, and Beth were all leaning against the wall, throwing in the occasional sarcastic comment as Katie posed for the camera.

“You’re loving this way too much, McCabe,” Leah called out, laughing when Katie dramatically flipped her jacket’s collar.

Katie shot her a look. “Jealous, Williamson? Don’t worry, maybe Y/N will let you model in the next shoot.”

Leah rolled her eyes, but there was no hiding the amusement on her face.

Y/N, standing behind the camera with the photographer, couldn’t help but smile. Katie was completely in her element, commanding attention with every pose. The theme of the collection suited her perfectly, and it showed in how effortlessly she wore each piece.

As the shoot continued, Y/N found herself feeling proud. This collaboration wasn’t just about making clothes—it was about showcasing the side of Katie that everyone admired. She was strong, fearless, and unapologetically herself, and now, her personality was immortalized in fashion.

“Alright, Katie, that’s a wrap,” the photographer said after the final shot.

Katie strutted over to Y/N, grinning like she’d just won a match. “That was amazing. You’re a genius, Y/N.”

Y/N chuckled, giving her a playful shove. “I told you I’d make it worth the wait.”

“You definitely did,” Katie agreed, glancing at the jacket she was wearing. “I can’t wait to see people walking around in this.”

As the rest of the team gathered around to check out the final shots, Y/N caught sight of Katie watching her. There was a rare softness in her expression, and she stepped closer, her voice quieter now.

“Hey,” Katie said, bumping Y/N’s shoulder. “Thanks for this. I know I was a pain about it, but you really nailed it.”

Y/N grinned, bumping her back. “You’re welcome. But I wouldn’t call you a pain. More like… passionate.”

Katie laughed, shaking her head. “Whatever you say.”

She slung an arm around Y/N’s shoulders, and as they walked back toward the rest of the team, Y/N felt a sense of contentment. The Fearless collection was going to be a massive success, but more than that, it had brought her and Katie even closer.

And as they joined their teammates, with everyone buzzing about the new line, Y/N couldn’t help but think that maybe, just maybe, this was only the beginning.

The match against Chelsea was a high-stakes one, a clash between two of the best teams in the league. It was fast-paced, with tackles flying in and tension building as the clock ticked down. The atmosphere was electric—fans roaring, adrenaline running through every player’s veins, and Y/N right in the thick of it. She’d been in brilliant form all season, and this game was no different.

Y/N had always prided herself on her speed, agility, and ability to weave through defenses effortlessly. She’d just danced past two defenders when she spotted a gap in the Chelsea backline. With the ball at her feet, she charged forward, eyes locked on the goal.

And then it happened.

In the blink of an eye, as Y/N was about to take her shot, a Chelsea defender came in with a hard, mistimed tackle. Y/N felt the impact before she even realized what had happened. The crack in her knee echoed in her ears as she collapsed to the ground, clutching her leg in agony.

Time seemed to slow. The roar of the crowd dimmed, replaced by a ringing in her ears. All she could feel was the searing pain shooting through her knee, every nerve on fire. Her heart raced, panic settling in as she tried to move, but her leg wouldn’t respond.

"Y/N! Oh my God, Y/N!" Katie's voice was the first she registered, followed by the concerned faces of her teammates rushing over.

Y/N's breath came in short, shallow gasps as she lay on the grass, her vision blurring from the pain. The medics were on her within seconds, their hands gently prodding her leg, but she already knew. Something was terribly wrong.

“Katie…” Y/N whispered through gritted teeth, tears filling her eyes as the reality began to sink in. “I can’t move my leg.”

Katie knelt beside her, her face pale as she reached for Y/N’s hand. “Don’t say that. It’ll be fine. The medics will fix you up, yeah?”

Y/N tried to nod, but the pain was too much. She could barely focus as the medics worked around her, their concerned expressions doing little to comfort her.

The stretcher arrived quickly, and as they carefully lifted her onto it, Y/N’s heart ached more than her leg. The crowd’s cheers faded into background noise, and she could only focus on the tears that slipped down Katie’s face as she walked beside her, holding her hand tightly.

“Stay with me, okay?” Katie whispered, her voice shaking. “You’re gonna be okay, Y/N. You have to be.”

Y/N wanted to believe her. She wanted to hold on to that hope, but something deep inside her told her otherwise. The way her leg had twisted, the way her knee had buckled—it felt catastrophic.

The ride to the hospital was a blur. Y/N drifted in and out of consciousness, the painkillers numbing her enough to dull the physical pain, but nothing could touch the growing dread in her chest.

Hours passed before the team doctor finally approached her after the MRI. Y/N sat in the sterile hospital bed, Katie at her side, fingers still intertwined.

The doctor sighed, his expression grim. “Y/N, I’m afraid the damage is extensive. You’ve torn your ACL, MCL, and PCL, along with significant damage to the meniscus. The recovery time… well, it’s going to be long. And even then, there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to return to professional football.”

Y/N’s world shattered with those words.

She stared at the doctor, unable to speak, the weight of the diagnosis pressing down on her like a physical force. She couldn’t breathe. She couldn’t think. All she could do was replay the moment over and over in her mind—her foot planted, the crack in her knee, the way she had fallen. How could it all end like this?

Beside her, Katie stiffened, her grip on Y/N’s hand tightening. “No… no, there has to be something else. Surgery? Rehab? Y/N can’t just—she can’t just stop playing.”

The doctor’s sympathetic gaze shifted to Katie. “There will be surgeries, multiple, but the extent of the damage… it’s unlikely she’ll return to her previous level of play. I’m sorry.”

Y/N’s chest constricted, her pulse hammering in her ears. She’d dreamed of playing at the highest level since she was a kid, sacrificed everything for it. And now, it was being ripped away from her in a single moment.

Katie looked at her, her own eyes red and puffy, tears threatening to spill. “Y/N…”

“I…” Y/N swallowed, her voice hoarse. “I don’t know what to do.”

Katie pulled her into a tight hug, burying her face in Y/N’s shoulder. “We’ll figure it out,” she whispered, her voice cracking. “We’ll figure it out together. You’re not alone.”

But Y/N couldn’t bring herself to believe that. Football was all she’d ever known, all she’d ever wanted. Without it… who was she?

Days passed in a blur of surgeries, hospital visits, and endless hours of rehab. Y/N’s teammates visited often, bringing flowers and cards, but nothing could lift the crushing weight in her chest. The reality of her situation hung over her like a dark cloud.

Katie was with her every step of the way, never leaving her side, but Y/N could feel the strain it was putting on both of them. There were moments where Y/N would catch Katie watching her with a sadness in her eyes, as if she didn’t know how to fix the situation.

And the truth was, no one could fix it.

Months into her rehab, sitting in the gym, watching her teammates train from the sidelines, Y/N felt the full force of her loss. Watching them run drills, laughing, and playing the game she loved, it hit her all over again. She would never step foot on the pitch as a player again.

As she sat there, her leg in a brace, Katie came up behind her and gently wrapped her arms around Y/N's shoulders, resting her chin on Y/N's head.

“I’m so proud of you, you know that?” Katie whispered softly.

Y/N blinked back the tears that threatened to spill over. “Proud of what? That I can barely bend my knee?”

“No,” Katie said, squeezing her tighter. “For getting through this. For staying strong when everything felt impossible.”

Y/N exhaled shakily, leaning back into Katie’s embrace. “I don’t feel strong, Katie. I feel… lost.”

Katie kissed the top of her head. “You’re not lost. You’ll find your way, and I’ll be right there with you, whatever that looks like.”

And for the first time since the injury, Y/N allowed herself to believe that maybe, just maybe, she could still find a way forward—even if it wasn’t the path she had envisioned.

The weeks following Y/N’s injury were some of the hardest days of her life. Rehab was grueling—slow and painful, both physically and emotionally. Every day was a reminder of what she had lost, and even with Katie constantly by her side, it felt like an endless uphill battle.

Y/N spent most of her days in a daze, going through the motions of physical therapy, but her heart wasn’t in it. She felt detached, like she was watching her own life from a distance. Football had been everything to her, and without it, she didn’t know who she was anymore.

Katie could see the toll it was taking. Y/N wasn’t herself. She was quieter, more withdrawn, her once fiery personality dulled by the weight of everything she was going through. Katie hated seeing her like this, and she knew she had to do something to help pull her best friend out of the darkness.

One evening, after another long and silent day of rehab, Katie sat beside Y/N on the couch, watching as she absentmindedly scrolled through her phone. She noticed Y/N was lingering on some photos from her clothing line—the one she had kept secret for so long.

Katie nudged her gently. “You know, your clothing line is pretty incredible,” she said, keeping her tone light.

Y/N barely looked up, shrugging. “It’s just a side thing, Katie. It doesn’t really matter now.”

Katie’s brow furrowed. “Doesn’t matter? Y/N, it’s a huge deal. Do you know how many people would kill to be able to create something like that? And you did it while playing football at the highest level. That’s insane.”

Y/N let out a sigh, still not meeting Katie’s eyes. “Yeah, but football was always the priority. The clothing thing was just a distraction.”

Katie sat up straighter, her voice firm but gentle. “Maybe it started as a distraction, but it’s more than that now. You built something that people love, Y/N. People respect your work. And now, you’ve got all this time… Maybe this is your chance to really focus on it.”

Y/N finally looked up, her eyes heavy with doubt. “You think I can just switch from football to… fashion? Like it’s that easy?”

Katie smiled softly, placing a hand on Y/N’s knee. “I think you’ve got talent in both. And I think you need something to pour yourself into right now. You love fashion, Y/N. Every time you talk about your brand, you light up. It’s the only time recently I’ve seen you excited about anything.”

Y/N frowned, her mind racing. The clothing line had always been a passion project, something she did on the side, never something she imagined focusing on full-time. But Katie’s words stuck with her. Could this really be her new path?

“I don’t know…” Y/N muttered, her uncertainty palpable.

Katie gave her knee a reassuring squeeze. “You don’t have to know everything right now. But just… try. Start designing again. Get involved in your brand like you used to. You’re still Y/N—the girl who built something incredible out of nothing. You’re more than just football, even if it doesn’t feel that way right now.”

Y/N stared down at her hands, the weight of Katie’s words slowly sinking in. It had been so long since she’d allowed herself to think about her clothing line seriously. The injury had consumed her every thought, every worry, and she’d pushed everything else to the side.

But maybe… maybe Katie was right.

The next day, Katie took matters into her own hands. She surprised Y/N with a visit to the small design studio where Y/N used to work on her brand. Y/N hadn’t been there in months, too caught up in football and then her injury to even think about it.

As they walked in, Y/N hesitated, glancing around at the racks of clothes, the sketches pinned to the walls, the mood boards she’d abandoned in the chaos of her life.

Katie nudged her forward. “Come on, Y/N. This place used to be your sanctuary.”

Y/N took a deep breath, her heart pounding as she stepped inside. Memories flooded back—late nights designing, the excitement of launching new collections, the thrill of seeing people wear her clothes. There was a spark inside her, something she hadn’t felt in a long time.

Katie grinned, watching Y/N’s eyes light up as she walked around the studio. “You still love this, don’t you?”

Y/N nodded slowly, a small smile creeping onto her face. “Yeah… I do.”

“Then do something about it,” Katie urged. “Start designing again. Release something new. You’ve got the time now, Y/N. And you’ve got the talent.”

Y/N stared at the blank sketchpad on the table, her fingers itching to pick up a pencil. She hadn’t designed anything since before the injury, hadn’t let herself even think about fashion. But now, standing here, in the space she’d created, she felt a glimmer of hope.

Katie leaned against the table, her arms crossed, watching Y/N closely. “You could do an exclusive line or something. Work with one of the girls, make it special. Hell, you’ve already got half the team wearing your clothes, so you know they’re fans.”

Y/N chuckled, feeling a bit of the weight lift off her shoulders. “Yeah, I guess I could.”

Katie’s smile widened. “There’s the Y/N I know. The girl who takes risks, who’s not afraid to go after what she wants.”

Y/N glanced at Katie, her heart warming at the sight of her best friend’s unwavering support. “What would I do without you?”

Katie shrugged, teasing. “Probably wallow in self-pity and eat all the ice cream in London.”

Y/N laughed, the sound a little lighter than it had been in weeks. She picked up the pencil, the feel of it familiar and comforting in her hand. Maybe this was what she needed—a new direction, a new purpose.

And she had Katie by her side, pushing her forward, believing in her even when she didn’t believe in herself.

With a deep breath, Y/N sat down at the table, flipping open the sketchpad. Her mind buzzed with ideas, and for the first time in what felt like forever, she felt excited about the future.

Katie moved to stand behind her, placing a supportive hand on her shoulder. “You’ve got this, Y/N. I know you do.”

Y/N smiled up at her, feeling the warmth of Katie’s words wrap around her like a safety net. “Thanks, Katie. For everything.”

“Always,” Katie replied softly, her eyes full of affection. “Now, show me what you’re working on. I might just have to be your first customer.”

Months after Y/N had rediscovered her passion for fashion, her clothing brand had taken off in ways she never imagined. With Katie’s constant encouragement and the support of her teammates, Y/N was back to designing full-time, pouring her heart and soul into every piece. She had launched a new collection, which had been met with rave reviews, and her reputation in the fashion world had only grown.

Then came the call that would change everything.

Arsenal’s board reached out to Y/N with an offer she never expected: they wanted her brand to collaborate with the club to design next season’s kit. It was an opportunity most designers could only dream of—a chance to combine her love for football with her passion for fashion, and to leave a lasting legacy with the club she’d once played for.

When she first got the call, Y/N was speechless, her mind racing with possibilities. Arsenal was her home, even though she could no longer play. This was her chance to stay connected with the sport and the team in a new way, while showcasing her brand on one of the biggest stages in football.

Katie was the first person Y/N told, of course. She nearly tackled Y/N in excitement when she heard the news.

“No way! You’re going to design the next Arsenal kit? That’s massive!” Katie exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement as she paced around their living room. “Do you know how many designers would kill for this opportunity?”

Y/N grinned, still processing the magnitude of it all. “Yeah, it’s pretty surreal.”

Katie stopped pacing and grabbed Y/N by the shoulders. “You’re going to crush this, Y/N. I know it.”

With Arsenal’s backing and a tight deadline, Y/N threw herself into the project. She wanted the kit to reflect not just the club’s heritage, but also the culture and creativity her brand had become known for. She spent weeks sketching, designing, and meeting with the Arsenal team to perfect the kit. It had to be bold, yet timeless. A symbol of strength, unity, and the passion of the fans and players alike.

Finally, the day came to unveil the design to the team.

Arsenal had arranged a private meeting for Y/N to reveal the kit to the players and staff before the official release. As she stood in front of the group, holding her breath, Katie sat at the front of the crowd, her grin encouraging Y/N from across the room.

Y/N cleared her throat, nerves buzzing through her body. “Alright, so… this is it,” she began, gesturing to the sleek cover over the mannequins that stood in the center of the room. “I wanted this kit to represent Arsenal’s legacy but also bring in something new, something fresh. A mix of tradition and the future.”

With a swift pull, Y/N uncovered the kits. The room went silent for a beat, and then a collective gasp of awe rippled through the crowd.

The home kit was stunning: a deep, rich red with subtle geometric patterns woven into the fabric, representing the architectural lines of the Emirates Stadium. The sleeves and collar featured sleek, modern white accents, while the famous Arsenal crest was outlined in gold, giving it a touch of elegance. It was bold yet classic, a perfect blend of Y/N’s fashion-forward designs and Arsenal’s storied history.

The away kit was a statement in itself—a striking black with intricate detailing of North London streets subtly mapped into the fabric. The fluorescent accents in Arsenal’s gold and red lit up the design, adding flair without losing the focus on its sophistication.

The third kit was more daring, with abstract patterns that paid homage to the diverse cultures and streetwear influences that inspired Y/N’s brand. It was an explosion of color—vibrant and fearless, just like Arsenal’s fighting spirit.

The players erupted in excitement.

“Mate, that’s unreal!” Leah Williamson shouted, her eyes wide with admiration as she stepped closer to the mannequins, running her fingers over the fabric. “This is next level, Y/N.”

Alessia Russo nodded in agreement. “I’ve never seen anything like this. It’s fresh, but it still feels like Arsenal. You nailed it.”

The entire room buzzed with energy, players exchanging excited glances and murmuring about how amazing it would feel to step out on the pitch in Y/N’s designs.

Katie, of course, was practically vibrating with pride. “I told you! I told you, you were going to kill it!” she shouted, beaming at Y/N.

The team’s excitement filled Y/N with a deep sense of pride, and for the first time since her injury, she felt like she had a place again. She might not be playing on the pitch, but her contribution would live on in a way she’d never imagined.

The collaboration was set to be one of the biggest talking points of the upcoming season, with fans eagerly awaiting the official release. But behind the scenes, the players couldn’t contain their excitement about the kits they’d soon be wearing.

After the reveal, Jonas Eidevall approached Y/N with a genuine smile. “You’ve done something special here, Y/N. This isn’t just a kit—it’s a part of Arsenal now.”

Y/N blushed, overwhelmed by the response. “Thanks, Jonas. It means a lot, especially coming from you.”

Katie bounded over and threw her arm around Y/N’s shoulders. “We need a party to celebrate this, right?” she asked, winking at the group.

Y/N laughed, shaking her head. “It’s just a kit, Katie.”

“No, it’s not just a kit,” Leah interjected, grinning. “It’s the best kit Arsenal’s ever had, and you’re the genius behind it.”

Y/N smiled as the room erupted into applause, her heart swelling with a sense of belonging. She hadn’t lost everything after all. This was her purpose now. Her legacy, not just in football, but in a way that allowed her creativity to shine through.

And through it all, she had Katie by her side, pushing her to be more, reminding her of who she really was—even when Y/N had forgotten herself.

After the success of her Arsenal kit collaboration, Y/N had been riding a wave of inspiration. Her brand had grown exponentially, with new collections flying off the shelves, and her next big project was something she’d always dreamed of: an upscale luxury party wear line. Sleek, elegant, and designed for people who wanted to make a statement—this collection was her chance to branch out beyond streetwear and athletic fashion into something more high-end.

The timing couldn’t have been better. With the FIFA Best Awards coming up, several of Y/N’s Arsenal teammates were nominated, and they were all buzzing with excitement. Katie had been going on for weeks about what to wear, while Alessia, Leah, and the rest of the girls teased her relentlessly.

Y/N, of course, had an idea.

“What if I dressed you all for the awards?” she casually suggested one day during lunch at the training ground, her eyes glinting mischievously as she looked around the table.

The entire room went quiet for a moment as her words sunk in.

“What do you mean?” Alessia asked, wide-eyed.

“I mean, I’m working on a new line. Upscale, luxury party wear,” Y/N explained, leaning back in her chair with a smirk. “I could design custom outfits for each of you to wear on the red carpet. Trust me, you’ll look incredible.”

The girls stared at her in stunned silence for a few seconds before Katie practically jumped out of her seat.

“Wait, you’re serious?” Katie asked, her eyes lighting up. “Y/N, you’ve been holding out on us!”

Leah raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Luxury party wear, huh? I didn’t know you were venturing into that.”

Y/N shrugged, trying to play it cool. “It’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a while. And what better way to debut it than by having you lot wear it to the FIFA Best Awards?”

Katie shot out of her chair, throwing her arms around Y/N. “This is brilliant! I’m going to look so good, I’ll steal the show.”

Alessia grinned. “You mean we will steal the show.”

The excitement spread quickly as all the girls clamored for details, eager to hear what Y/N had in mind for their looks. Over the next few days, she met with each of them individually to discuss their style preferences, and soon the designs were underway.

A week before the awards, Y/N had the final fittings ready. She had converted part of her flat into a makeshift studio, where she could work on the dresses and suits and ensure they fit perfectly.

Katie was the first to try on her outfit, and she looked absolutely stunning. Y/N had designed her a sleek, black velvet jumpsuit with a deep V neckline and gold chain detailing at the waist. It was edgy, classy, and had just the right amount of boldness to match Katie’s personality.

“I feel like a bloody movie star,” Katie said, grinning as she looked at herself in the mirror. She turned to Y/N, giving her a playful wink. “You’ve outdone yourself, Y/N.”

“You haven’t even seen the others yet,” Y/N teased, adjusting one of the chains on Katie’s outfit. “Trust me, you’re all going to look incredible.”

Alessia’s dress was a soft champagne-colored satin gown with a high slit, delicate straps, and a low, open back. It was elegant and sophisticated, fitting her calm, graceful demeanor. She twirled in front of the mirror, the fabric flowing around her as she beamed at Y/N.

“This is gorgeous,” Alessia whispered, almost in awe. “I never thought I’d wear something like this.”

“You pull it off better than anyone,” Y/N replied, smiling as she watched Alessia’s reaction. “You’re going to turn heads for sure.”

Leah’s outfit was a tailored white suit with silver embellishments on the blazer. It was sharp, powerful, and oozed confidence—just like the woman wearing it. Leah glanced at herself in the mirror, the corners of her mouth curling into a pleased smirk.

“I like it. Strong, but not too much,” Leah said, turning to face Y/N. “How did you know this was exactly what I wanted?”

Y/N shrugged. “I pay attention. You’re a natural in it.”

One by one, the rest of the girls came in for their fittings, each one stunned by the craftsmanship and attention to detail in their custom looks. The excitement in the room was palpable as the FIFA Best Awards drew closer, and Y/N couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride as she watched her teammates react to the pieces she had created.

The night of the awards arrived, and Y/N’s designs were finally revealed to the world.

As the team arrived at the red carpet, photographers’ flashes lit up the night, capturing every moment. Katie strutted confidently, her black velvet jumpsuit catching the light with every step. Leah walked beside her, radiating power in her white suit, while Alessia’s satin gown shimmered under the camera flashes.

The media went wild, and the questions started pouring in.

“Who are you wearing?” one reporter asked Katie.

Katie grinned, pointing to Y/N who stood at the back of the group, dressed in her own chic black ensemble. “It’s all Y/N’s brand. She designed everything.”

Y/N couldn’t help but blush as the attention shifted to her. “I just wanted them to feel as confident and amazing as they are,” she said, trying to stay humble as the cameras focused on her.

The girls laughed and pulled her into the spotlight, posing with her for the cameras. They were all glowing, not just from the glamour of the night but from the bond they shared and the confidence that Y/N’s designs had given them.

As the night continued and they mingled with other players and celebrities, people kept stopping them to ask about their outfits, praising Y/N’s designs and her talent.

“You really knocked it out of the park,” Katie whispered to Y/N at one point, her arm slung around her best friend’s shoulders. “Everyone’s talking about your line. This is going to blow up.”

Y/N smiled, her heart full. “Thanks, Katie. I couldn’t have done it without you guys.”

Katie grinned. “Yeah, but don’t forget—I looked the best tonight.”

Y/N laughed, rolling her eyes. “Whatever helps you sleep at night, McCabe.”

As the night went on, Y/N realized that her journey was far from over. The success of her brand was only just beginning, and with her friends by her side, she felt unstoppable. Fashion, football, friendship—she had it all, and she couldn’t wait to see where it would take her next.

The FIFA Best Awards night had barely wrapped up, but the buzz surrounding Y/N’s luxury party wear collection hadn’t died down. Social media was flooded with photos of the Arsenal girls in their custom outfits, and fans were clamoring for more. Y/N was overwhelmed with messages—praise for her designs, inquiries from fashion insiders, and countless new followers. Her brand had already made a name for itself in the streetwear scene, but this was something else entirely. This was a whole new level.

A few days after the awards, Y/N received an unexpected message. A famous fashion designer, someone she had admired from afar for years, had reached out.

"Would love to meet. I have an exciting opportunity for you. Let me know when you're free. — Adrien Duval."

Adrien Duval was one of the biggest names in high fashion. Known for pushing boundaries and creating art through clothing, his shows were the talk of every major fashion week. Y/N had grown up admiring his work, and now, here he was, reaching out to her.

Excitement coursed through her as she replied, setting up a meeting at a high-end café in central London. The anticipation was almost unbearable, but Y/N kept it cool as she arrived at the café, trying to hide the fact that she was, in fact, completely starstruck.

When she walked in, she immediately spotted Adrien sitting at a table near the window, sipping on an espresso. He looked exactly as she’d imagined—tall, impeccably dressed, with an aura of effortless style and authority. When he saw her, he stood up and offered a warm smile.

“Y/N, it’s a pleasure,” Adrien greeted, shaking her hand. “Thank you for meeting me.”

“The pleasure’s mine,” Y/N replied, trying not to let her nerves show as they sat down. “I have to say, I wasn’t expecting this. You’re… well, you're an icon.”

Adrien chuckled, waving a hand dismissively. “You’re too kind. But I have to say, I’ve been keeping an eye on your work. Your collection at the FIFA Best Awards—it was spectacular. The perfect combination of boldness and elegance. You’ve got something special, Y/N.”

Y/N felt a blush creep up her neck, but she nodded. “Thank you. I’m just trying to push the boundaries a little.”

“And you’re doing it brilliantly,” Adrien replied, his tone sincere. He leaned in slightly, his expression more serious now. “I’ve come to you with an opportunity. London Fashion Week is approaching, and I think your brand would be a perfect fit. I’d like to offer you the chance to host your own show.”

Y/N blinked, not quite sure if she’d heard him right. “You’re serious?”

Adrien nodded. “I don’t say this lightly. Your work is fresh, innovative, and it's time for the world to see that on the biggest stage. Your brand is already turning heads, but a show at London Fashion Week could catapult you to another level.”

Y/N sat back in her chair, trying to process what he was saying. A fashion show at London Fashion Week. The pinnacle of high fashion, where the most elite designers showcased their collections. It was an opportunity she had always dreamed about, but never imagined would come so soon.

“What do you think?” Adrien asked, watching her reaction closely.

“I… wow, I don’t even know what to say,” Y/N admitted, still in a bit of shock. “It’s an incredible offer. I’d love to do it.”

Adrien smiled, clearly pleased with her response. “Excellent. I had a feeling you’d be up for the challenge. The logistics can be worked out later, but I wanted to make sure I extended the invitation personally. You’re going to do great things, Y/N, and I want to be a part of it.”

The rest of the meeting was a blur of excitement and planning. Adrien explained the process, how the show would work, and what Y/N would need to prepare in the coming months. He offered advice, tips, and even suggested a few big-name models who could potentially walk in her show.

By the time Y/N left the café, her mind was racing. London Fashion Week. She could hardly believe it. The opportunity felt surreal, but she knew she was ready. Her passion for fashion, the endless nights of designing, and her dedication to her brand had all led to this moment. Now, it was her chance to take it to the next level.

As she walked down the street, her phone buzzed with a message from Katie.

Katie: "Heard you had a meeting. What’s up?"

Y/N couldn’t help but grin as she typed back her response.

Y/N: "Just got asked to do a show at London Fashion Week."

Katie: "SHUT UP. Are you serious?!"

Y/N: "Dead serious."

There was a pause, and then her phone rang. Y/N answered with a laugh. “You couldn’t just text?”

Katie’s voice was practically vibrating with excitement. “London Fashion Week? Y/N, that’s massive! I knew you were killing it, but this is next level. We’re all coming to that show, no question.”

Y/N smiled, her heart warm at the support from her best friend. “Thanks, Katie. I’m still wrapping my head around it, but yeah, it’s happening.”

“I’m so proud of you,” Katie said, her tone softer now. “You deserve this. You’ve worked so hard.”

Y/N felt a lump in her throat at Katie’s words. “Thanks, McCabe. You’ve been there every step of the way.”

“And I’m not going anywhere,” Katie promised. “You better make me something killer to wear to the show.”

Y/N laughed. “You know I’ve got you covered.”

As she hung up, Y/N looked out at the city around her, her heart swelling with gratitude and excitement. The journey had only just begun, but she knew, with Katie and the rest of the team by her side, there was nothing she couldn’t achieve.

London Fashion Week, here she came.

The night of London Fashion Week had arrived, and the buzz surrounding Y/N’s debut show was electric. Backstage, the energy was palpable—models getting last-minute touch-ups, stylists tweaking outfits, and assistants running around to make sure everything was perfect. Y/N stood off to the side, watching the chaos unfold, her heart pounding in her chest. She had spent months designing this collection, pouring her soul into each piece, and now, it was finally about to be shown to the world.

But something else weighed heavy on her mind.

For so long, football had been her identity. It was the only thing she knew growing up, the only thing she ever dreamed about. But after her career-ending injury, it was as if a part of her had died. She’d been searching for a way to fill that void, and while her clothing line had given her something to focus on, she had never fully accepted that she could truly leave football behind. It was still there, haunting her in the background, a reminder of what could have been.

Katie and a few of her Arsenal teammates were sitting front row, all dressed in pieces from her collection, cheering her on. They’d been her biggest supporters through everything, but Katie had always been the one to push her, to remind her that there was life beyond football. Tonight felt like a culmination of all the hard work, the sleepless nights, the creative struggles—but more than that, it felt like a chance to finally let go.

The lights in the venue dimmed, and the music began to pulse through the speakers. It was time. Y/N took a deep breath, nodding to her team, and the first model stepped out onto the runway.

As each look made its way down the catwalk, Y/N felt a strange mix of emotions. Pride, relief, excitement—but also a sense of closure. The crowd was in awe, their eyes glued to the collection she had crafted with her own hands. Every piece told a story, not just of her as a designer but of her journey—her pain, her growth, her evolution.

Katie caught her eye from the front row, giving her a thumbs up and mouthing, “You’re killing it.” Y/N smiled, feeling her heart swell with gratitude. This was her new purpose, her new path.

The final look came out, and the applause was deafening. Y/N could barely hear herself think as the models lined up for the final walk. She stepped out onto the runway with them, feeling the weight of the moment hit her. The crowd stood up, giving her a standing ovation, but all Y/N could focus on was the sense of peace settling over her.

She walked the length of the runway, giving a small wave to the audience, but when she reached the end, she found Katie’s eyes again. There was a knowing look in them, as if Katie understood exactly what Y/N was feeling. And in that moment, Y/N knew.

She could finally let go.

As the applause faded and the lights dimmed, Y/N stood there, taking it all in. Football had been her first love, and losing it had broken her in ways she never thought possible. But standing on that runway, basking in the glow of her success as a designer, she realized she didn’t need football anymore. She had found something else, something that allowed her to express herself in ways she never could on the pitch.

Backstage, as the models and crew celebrated the success of the show, Y/N found a quiet corner to sit down. She needed a moment to breathe, to process what had just happened. Katie found her shortly after, sliding into the seat next to her, nudging her playfully.

“You did it,” Katie said, her voice full of pride. “That was incredible.”

Y/N smiled, leaning back against the wall. “I can’t believe it’s over.”

“It’s only the beginning,” Katie reminded her, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. “But I think you know that.”

Y/N nodded, exhaling deeply. “Yeah. I think… I think I’m ready to move on.”

Katie’s eyebrows shot up. “Really?”

Y/N looked down at her hands, feeling the weight of her words. “For the longest time, I was holding on to this idea that I couldn’t be anything without football. But tonight… I felt like I found something that fills that part of me. I think I can finally accept that it’s okay to let football go.”

Katie squeezed her shoulder. “I’m proud of you, Y/N. You’ve come so far. And look at what you’ve built. It’s incredible.”

Y/N smiled, feeling lighter than she had in years. “Thank you, Katie. For everything. I don’t think I could’ve gotten here without you.”

Katie grinned, pulling her into a side hug. “You’ve always had it in you, mate. I just gave you a little push.”

Y/N laughed, but there were tears in her eyes as she hugged Katie back. For the first time since her injury, she didn’t feel like she had lost anything. She had gained something new—a purpose, a passion, and a future.

And now, she was ready to embrace it fully.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The End

[millyh23]

Can I request a patri guijarro enemies to friends to lovers

I can't think of a prompt for this hope that is ok

In honour of the ballon d’or I reckon I can conjure something up for her

[millyh23]

Can I also request a alyssa naeher x reader enemies to friends to lovers

Reader is alyssa rival in the number 1 goalkeeper is the uswnt it gets bitter the rivalry gets really bad when alyssa tells a opposition player where to score against reader when the opposition gets a penalty thankfully the uswnt win but reader finds out about the betrayal and leaves the team I hope that's enough cause I can't figure out how to get them to lovers

I like this a lot it will probs be out tomorrow

[millyh23]

Who do u write for and do u write smutbor not also what will you not write

I will write for any female footballers in any league any division in any team just give a name and a little prompt if you have something specific if not I will conjure something up.

I write anything but smut ngl I have been trying to steer away from angst but I can’t help that it is so fun to write.

[millyh23]

Rivalry to romance is absolutely flipping brilliant you continue to amaze me cause your fics r out of this world

Thank you so much I appreciate it.

I was 50/50 on releasing it it didn’t have the flow I wanted but I kinda came together if you guys want a pt2 let me know what you want to see

[millyh23]

hii i LOVE your work!! please i can ask for arsenal x teen reader? they find out she has a second job to pay for house rent money bc her parents are meant to support her but don’t. r thinks her team will be annoyed bc she does not focus all on football but they all just want to help out

Hidden Hustle out in a few days i've nearly finished it just need to add some pizzazz to it but can't think rn.

[millyh23]

running low on ideas send through any requests you'd like with any players.

Just please don't send requests that are the same as what another writer has posted just with a different player pls.

Anything else is welcome.

First 3 request sent in will come out tomorrow.

[millyh23]

Rivalry To Romance

Katie McCabe x Reader

Word count: 13.4k

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Katie McCabe had always prided herself on her loyalty to her team and her country. Playing for the Republic of Ireland wasn’t just a position—it was an identity. That’s why, when Arsenal announced their newest signing, Katie’s stomach churned with a mix of anger and disbelief.

Y/N Y/L/N from Northern Ireland. Her fiercest rival.

The rumors were true; Y/N had signed with Arsenal, her club, her territory. Katie couldn't shake the memory of their last match, where Y/N's last-minute tackle had nearly cost Ireland the game. She could still remember the cold glares they exchanged, the heated words they spat across the pitch, and the way Y/N stood unfazed by Katie’s ire.

“Hey, Katie, look who’s here!” Leah called, snapping Katie out of her thoughts as Y/N entered the locker room, glancing around the space as if she owned it.

Katie clenched her fists. Here they go.

“McCabe,” Y/N greeted, her voice cool as she acknowledged her.

“Y/L/N,” Katie replied, voice icy.

From that first meeting, it was like the air between them carried an electric charge. Training drills became intense battles; Katie would push Y/N off the ball, and Y/N would retaliate with a perfectly-timed tackle. The team was torn between amusement and exasperation, watching the two rivals go head-to-head every day.

Arsenal’s training grounds hummed with the usual energy, players jogging onto the pitch and taking their positions. The team was warming up, but Katie could feel the static tension creeping up her spine. It wasn’t just the usual excitement of a new training session. It was the unmistakable edge she felt every time Y/N was nearby.

Katie glanced to her right, where Y/N was adjusting her shin guards. She caught Y/N’s eye and rolled her shoulders back, flashing a smirk she knew would rile her up.

“Ready for a proper session, Y/L/N?” Katie said with a challenging grin. “Or are you only fierce when it’s Northern Ireland on your shirt?”

Y/N scoffed, crossing her arms. “Trust me, McCabe. I don’t need a green shirt to beat you.”

Their teammates watched as the two squared up, a mix of amusement and anticipation rippling through the group. This rivalry had become daily entertainment.

Coach Jonas clapped his hands. “Alright, let’s go—small-sided games. Five-a-side!” He started dividing players, and by some stroke of either luck or irony, Katie and Y/N ended up on opposing teams.

It was a fierce game from the start. Katie and Y/N seemed to gravitate toward each other, each of them upping the intensity with every pass, every tackle. Katie saw an opening, her teammate Leah ready to receive the ball, but the second she passed, Y/N was there, intercepting the play and charging up the field.

Katie chased her down, getting close enough to snap, “Keep dreaming if you think you’re gonna get past me.”

Y/N didn’t break stride. “Watch me.”

Katie lunged in, aiming to win back possession, but Y/N anticipated it and deftly sidestepped, sending Katie stumbling as Y/N dribbled past. Laughter broke out from the sidelines, and Katie’s face flushed as Y/N shot her a triumphant smirk.

Katie felt a flash of anger surge through her veins. She caught up to Y/N, deliberately closing in too fast, and clipped her ankle just as she went to take a shot. Y/N stumbled, barely staying on her feet, and whipped around to glare at Katie.

“Seriously?” Y/N snapped, her voice sharp. “What’s your problem, McCabe?”

Katie put her hands on her hips, unbothered by the accusation. “My problem? Maybe it’s that you can’t keep up, but you’re always running your mouth.”

Y/N stepped closer, her eyes narrowing. “Keep up? I’m leaving you in the dust every time, and you can’t handle it.”

Katie rolled her eyes, putting her face inches from Y/N’s. “Please, you only look good out there because I’m going easy on you.”

“Oh, that’s hilarious,” Y/N shot back, sarcasm dripping from every word. “Keep telling yourself that, Katie.”

The tension had hit a breaking point. They were nose-to-nose, both breathing heavily, eyes locked in a fierce standoff.

Before either could say anything more, Leah stepped between them, her tone somewhere between amused and exasperated. “Alright, alright, break it up, you two. You’re both as stubborn as bricks.” She looked between them, raising an eyebrow. “If you spent half this energy playing together instead of against each other, we’d be unstoppable.”

Katie huffed, but took a step back, her eyes never leaving Y/N’s.

Y/N finally let out a slow breath, her gaze just as intense. “Fine,” she muttered, brushing past Katie as she moved back into position. “Just try to keep up.”

But as they returned to the game, something had shifted. Every pass, every movement, had an extra layer of intensity, neither willing to back down. For better or worse, training with Y/N had become Katie’s new battle, and she was all in.

Training was in full swing under a blazing sun. The team had split into small groups for a scrimmage, and as usual, Katie and Y/N had found themselves on opposing sides. It was a familiar, tense setup, but today felt different. The energy between them was sharper, like a wire pulled taut, ready to snap.

The game had barely begun when Y/N received the ball in the midfield. She pivoted, sidestepping an opponent, her eyes scanning the field for an opening. Katie saw her chance and surged forward, narrowing in on Y/N like a missile.

Y/N barely had time to react before Katie came in, sliding in with a tackle that was nowhere near clean. Her cleats clipped Y/N’s knee, sending her sprawling to the ground. The sound of the impact echoed, and a few teammates gasped as Y/N hit the turf, hard.

Katie pushed herself to her feet, but before she could turn away, Y/N was already up, her face twisted in fury.

“Are you kidding me, McCabe?” Y/N barked, shoving her back.

Katie staggered a step but quickly steadied herself, her jaw clenched. “What? Can’t handle a little tackle?” she shot back, voice dripping with mock innocence. “Maybe you’re not cut out for the game.”

Y/N’s fists clenched at her sides. “A little tackle? You practically tried to break my leg!”

Katie stepped closer, her voice low and menacing. “Maybe if you were quicker, I wouldn’t have to.”

That was it. Y/N’s hand flew out, giving Katie another hard shove, this time with more force. Katie’s expression shifted, anger flashing in her eyes as she recovered and shoved her right back. It was harder, enough to make Y/N take a few steps back, but she recovered just as fast.

Without thinking, Y/N surged forward, and suddenly, they were chest-to-chest, faces inches apart, breathing heavily as anger radiated between them.

“Say that again,” Y/N hissed, her eyes blazing. “I dare you.”

Katie leaned in, her eyes flashing with a dangerous glint. “You heard me. Maybe it’s time someone knocked you down a peg, Y/L/N.”

Y/N let out a bitter laugh, shaking her head. “You’re so full of yourself, McCabe. Just because you’re Ireland’s pride doesn’t mean everyone else is beneath you.”

Katie’s jaw tightened, her expression turning icy. “And just because you wear a badge doesn’t mean you belong here. You’re not Arsenal material.”

That hit a nerve, and Y/N’s patience finally snapped. She grabbed the front of Katie’s training shirt, pulling her closer, but Katie was just as quick, gripping Y/N’s wrist and holding it in a tight lock. The tension between them was palpable, both locked in a furious standoff.

Their teammates were watching in shocked silence, unsure of whether to intervene or let them sort it out.

“Katie, Y/N, that’s enough!” Leah shouted, stepping forward, but neither moved.

Katie’s grip tightened on Y/N’s wrist, her voice barely above a whisper but laced with fury. “You think you can come in here, walk all over everyone, and just fit right in? I’ve been here for years. I’ve bled for this team. You haven’t earned it.”

Y/N yanked her hand free and shoved Katie again, harder this time, and Katie stumbled backward, but she quickly regained her footing, fists clenched. Before she could respond, Beth and Leah stepped in, each grabbing one of the girls to separate them.

“Alright, that’s enough!” Leah said, her voice firm. “You two are acting like children.”

Katie glared over Leah’s shoulder, still breathing heavily. “Tell that to her.”

“Oh, please, Katie!” Y/N spat back, struggling against Beth’s hold. “At least I don’t go around acting like I own the place.”

Beth rolled her eyes, trying to keep Y/N steady. “Look, if you two want to kill each other, do it off the pitch. Right now, we’re a team.”

Katie huffed, finally breaking her gaze from Y/N, though her face was still flushed with anger. “Fine,” she muttered, wrenching herself free from Leah’s grip. She stormed off a few paces, but couldn’t resist one last glare back in Y/N’s direction.

Y/N shook her head, shrugging off Beth’s hold. “Whatever. Just keep her out of my way,” she muttered before turning to walk back to her spot on the pitch.

As the two resumed their positions, their teammates exchanged uneasy glances, but one thing was clear: this wasn’t over. The fire between them had only been stoked, and it was only a matter of time before it flared up again.

Preseason camp had only just begun, and the Arsenal players were still settling into their assigned rooms. Spirits were high as teammates unpacked, talking excitedly about the upcoming season and all the memories they’d make on this trip.

But down the hall, the atmosphere was anything but cheerful.

Katie McCabe stood frozen outside her assigned room, staring at the name on the door next to hers in disbelief. She rubbed her eyes, double-checking. There was no mistaking it.

“Room 14A: Katie McCabe and Y/N Y/L/N”

A frustrated groan escaped her lips. “You’ve got to be kidding me.”

At that very moment, Y/N rounded the corner, stopping in her tracks as soon as she saw Katie standing there. Her eyes fell on the door, and she blanched, reading her worst nightmare confirmed in bold letters.

“No way. This has to be a mistake,” Y/N muttered, her voice dripping with irritation.

“Believe me, I couldn’t agree more,” Katie snapped. “Who thought it was a good idea to put us in the same room?”

Y/N clenched her jaw. “Just great. The one person on this team I can’t stand, and I’m supposed to live with her for the next two weeks?”

Katie crossed her arms, shooting Y/N an icy glare. “Don’t worry; I won’t be throwing you any welcome parties either.”

The two stood in tense silence until Leah walked by, catching their expressions.

“What’s up with you two?” she asked, looking between them with an amused smile.

“What’s up? What’s up?” Katie fumed, hands gesturing wildly. “I’m roomed with her, that’s what’s up!”

Y/N threw her hands up in exasperation. “Oh, don’t act like this is a dream come true for me either, Katie.”

Leah stifled a laugh. “I don’t know; maybe you two will actually learn to get along if you’re forced to spend some time together.”

Katie scoffed, but Leah was already walking away, ignoring her protests.

“Learn to get along?” Katie muttered, turning to Y/N. “She’s delusional.”

Y/N didn’t waste a second to turn away, muttering as she marched toward her teammates who were gathered down the hall. As soon as she reached them, she put on her most pleading expression. “Please, someone switch with me,” she begged. “I’ll take anyone—even Beth, and she snores like a lawnmower.”

Beth raised her eyebrows in mock offense. “Hey, don’t drag me into this! Besides, I think it’s poetic justice.” She exchanged a glance with Leah, both grinning as they enjoyed the unfolding drama.

“You all think this is hilarious, don’t you?” Y/N groaned.

“Absolutely,” Leah replied, not even trying to hide her laughter.

Meanwhile, Katie was ranting to her own little group on the other end of the hall.

“It’s like the universe is punishing me. I finally make it through all the preseason drills, and now this?” She threw her hands up in exasperation. “All she does is talk back, glare, and then act like I’m the problem!”

Jen leaned against the wall, clearly amused. “You’re the one talking about her nonstop, Katie. Sounds like you’ve got it bad.”

Katie shot her a glare. “I do not ‘have it bad.’ I have it terribly.”

Down the hall, Y/N continued her complaints to Beth and Caitlin, who were listening with barely hidden amusement. “I’m telling you, I’ll be lucky if we don’t end up killing each other by the end of the week,” Y/N said, crossing her arms. “She’s got this whole ‘I’m too good for everyone’ thing going on, like she’s the queen of Arsenal.”

Beth shrugged, clearly unfazed by Y/N’s complaints. “She’s been here a long time. She probably thinks you’re here to take her spot.”

Y/N rolled her eyes. “As if I care about taking her spot.”

“Maybe,” Caitlin interjected, smirking. “But she thinks you do.”

Just as Y/N was about to retort, Coach Jonas walked by and caught a few words of their conversation. He paused, taking in the glares Katie and Y/N were shooting each other across the hallway.

“Alright, alright,” Jonas said, clapping his hands. “If I’m hearing complaints from both sides, then maybe this arrangement is exactly what you two need. Who knows? You might actually learn something from each other.”

Katie opened her mouth to protest, but he cut her off with a knowing look. “No room swaps. Consider it a preseason exercise in…team bonding.”

He walked away, leaving Katie and Y/N fuming in the middle of the hall.

Once he was out of sight, Katie threw her hands up, clearly frustrated. “Fine. But stay out of my way, Y/L/N. We’re on opposite schedules. I’ll shower at night; you take the morning.”

Y/N rolled her eyes. “Great. Fine by me. I’d rather not have to look at you first thing in the morning.”

Katie shot her one last glare before grabbing her bags and shoving her way into the room. Y/N followed suit, dragging her things in and slamming the door behind her.

And so, the rivals were roomed together, forced to share a space and to tolerate each other’s presence. But if one thing was clear, it was that neither would make this easy on the other.

Preseason training was already intense enough, but it quickly became clear that the real entertainment of the camp was Katie and Y/N’s constant bickering. It didn’t matter if they were running drills, passing the ball, or even just grabbing lunch—Katie and Y/N managed to turn every moment into an opportunity to one-up each other.

And their teammates were absolutely here for it.

The day started with a light warm-up, but the tension between Katie and Y/N was thick as ever. They were supposed to be practicing passing drills together, but within minutes, the shouting began.

“You call that a pass?” Katie sneered, catching the ball and immediately firing it back with unnecessary force. “I’ve seen toddlers with better control!”

Y/N scoffed as she trapped the ball. “If you’d stop kicking it like it’s a cannonball, maybe I wouldn’t have to adjust every time.”

Caitlin and Beth watched from the sidelines, exchanging amused glances.

“Oh, this is going to be good,” Caitlin whispered, nudging Beth. “Ten quid says Y/N snaps first.”

Beth grinned. “I don’t know. Katie’s got that fiery look in her eyes today. I’d bet on her.”

Meanwhile, across the field, the argument had only escalated. Y/N rolled her eyes at Katie. “Maybe try aiming, McCabe. I’m not out here trying to dodge bullets.”

Katie shrugged with a smirk. “Then maybe you shouldn’t have signed up to play with the big leagues, princess.”

That was all Y/N needed. She fired the ball back at Katie’s feet with a little too much force, and it nearly tripped Katie, who barely managed to regain her footing. A few of the other players tried (and failed) to stifle their laughter.

Alessia, standing nearby with her hands on her knees, was practically in tears. “How long do you think they’re going to keep this up?”

Leah, leaning against the goalpost, chuckled. “With those two? At least another hour. Maybe all season.”

By lunchtime, Katie and Y/N had managed to argue about nearly every topic imaginable. As they filed into the dining hall, Y/N immediately rolled her eyes when she saw Katie heading for the same table.

“Oh, fantastic,” Y/N muttered. “There are about ten other tables here, but sure, sit right here.”

Katie plopped down across from her, eyes glinting mischievously. “What’s wrong, Y/N? Can’t handle sharing a table either?”

Y/N shot her a glare, stabbing her salad with extra vigor. “It’s just bad for digestion, you know? All this hostility.”

Katie laughed. “Maybe that’s your excuse for that horrible passing earlier.”

Caitlin nudged Leah as they sat nearby, enjoying their front-row seat to the show. “I swear, they’re like an old married couple,” she whispered, trying not to laugh too loudly.

Leah smirked. “Right? Just imagine if they actually liked each other. They’d be unstoppable.”

Across the table, the two rivals continued their snarky back-and-forth.

“You’ve got dressing all over your face,” Katie said, smirking as she pointed to Y/N’s cheek. “Or is that just part of the look?”

Y/N wiped her cheek with a napkin, scowling. “At least I don’t inhale my food like a barbarian.”

Katie rolled her eyes. “Barbarian? Just because I don’t nibble on my food like a rabbit doesn’t mean I’m a barbarian.”

Beth let out a loud snort, drawing both Katie’s and Y/N’s glares.

“Sorry,” she said, holding up her hands in surrender. “It’s just…this is the best free entertainment I’ve had in ages.”

The others at the table nodded in agreement, smirking as Katie and Y/N exchanged another round of withering looks.

As they all finished lunch and moved on to free time, the team decided to cool off by the pool. But even there, Katie and Y/N couldn’t seem to stay out of each other’s way.

As Y/N was leaning down to grab her water bottle by the poolside, Katie “accidentally” bumped into her, causing Y/N to stumble forward, nearly losing her balance.

Y/N whipped around, eyes narrowed. “Oh, that was subtle. Are you five?”

Katie shrugged, feigning innocence. “Sorry, didn’t see you there. You’re just kind of…in the way.”

Leah, lounging on a sunbed nearby, turned to Alessia with a grin. “You think if we lock them in a room, they’ll either end up being best friends or kill each other?”

Alessia laughed. “I’d bet on the killing.”

That night, back in their shared room, Katie and Y/N’s bickering reached new heights.

“I can’t believe I have to share a bathroom with you,” Y/N complained, huffing as she watched Katie brush her teeth.

Katie raised an eyebrow, not bothering to pause her brushing. “Believe me, I’m not thrilled either. You leave your stuff everywhere!”

“Oh, please,” Y/N shot back. “The only thing I’ve left out is a toothbrush, while you’ve somehow managed to scatter your entire life all over the place.”

Katie spit into the sink, wiping her mouth with a towel. “You’re dramatic, Y/L/N. Maybe if you could manage a little…organization?”

“Oh, now you’re giving me life advice?” Y/N scoffed, rolling her eyes. “The last thing I need is tips from you.”

Beth, eavesdropping through the thin walls, laughed softly, turning to Leah in the room next door. “They’re still going at it.”

Leah shook her head, chuckling. “At this point, maybe we should let them keep fighting. I think it’s the most energy they’ve had all camp.”

Katie trudged back to her shared room with Y/N after an exhausting day of training. All she wanted was a hot shower and the blissful silence of some music in her headphones. But as she reached the door, Katie slowed down, hearing Y/N’s voice muffled through the wood.

It wasn’t unusual for Y/N to take phone calls; most of them seemed heated, muttered complaints or irritated sighs that Katie had learned to tune out. But this time, something was different. Y/N’s voice was low and…trembling?

Katie hesitated, hand on the doorknob. She could have walked away or given her roommate some space, but curiosity got the better of her.

“Look, I get it, okay?” Y/N’s voice cracked slightly, and Katie leaned closer, her heart suddenly pounding in her chest. “You… you don’t have to make excuses. If you’re done, just say it.”

A thick silence hung in the air as Y/N listened to the voice on the other end, her breathing shaky.

“Right. Yeah, it’s probably for the best.” A forced laugh. “I mean, I’ll still see you around, yeah? At least we don’t have to make a scene about it.”

Katie felt a pang of guilt for listening in, but she couldn’t seem to tear herself away from the door. She heard the faint sound of a sigh, one that held both resignation and defeat.

“I just… I thought maybe this time it would work,” Y/N continued, her voice barely above a whisper. “But I guess I was wrong. Again.”

Another silence.

“No, don’t worry. I’ll be fine,” she said quickly, though her voice wavered. “It’s just… I mean, you could’ve told me sooner, you know? Instead of letting me hold on thinking…”

Katie’s brow furrowed, a strange ache forming in her chest as she listened to Y/N’s words. Y/N, the stubborn and fierce player she clashed with daily, sounded so small, so fragile.

“Right. Well… good luck with everything,” Y/N said, her tone hardening. “Goodbye, then.”

There was a soft click, and Katie heard Y/N let out a shaky breath, followed by the muffled sound of her trying to hold back tears. Katie swallowed, suddenly feeling like an intruder in her own room. But before she could figure out what to do, the door swung open, and there stood Y/N, her eyes red and rimmed with tears.

Katie froze, her usual witty remark caught in her throat as she registered the devastated look on Y/N’s face.

Y/N’s expression turned to one of horror and anger in equal measure. “Were you… listening?”

Katie opened her mouth to deny it, but no excuse came to mind. “I… I didn’t mean to, I just…” She stopped, realizing that anything she said would sound weak.

“Just what, Katie?” Y/N’s voice was tight with anger, but her red-rimmed eyes betrayed the vulnerability behind her words. “Eavesdropping for fun now?”

Katie’s defenses kicked in, feeling suddenly cornered by Y/N’s hurt. “Look, I didn’t mean to eavesdrop, okay? I came back to the room and… I just heard you talking. I’m not some heartless creep.”

Y/N laughed bitterly, brushing past her and tossing her phone onto her bed. “Well, if you’re done with the free show, you can leave now.”

Katie hesitated, watching as Y/N crossed her arms and looked away, trying to hide the way her lip trembled.

“Y/N…” Katie said softly, but Y/N cut her off.

“Don’t,” Y/N snapped. “I don’t need your pity. I don’t need anything from you.”

Katie took a breath, swallowing the instinct to fight back. She remembered the conversation she’d overheard—the pain in Y/N’s voice, the vulnerable words that had cracked her usually unbreakable armor.

“Look,” Katie said, softening her tone. “I didn’t mean to intrude. And I’m… I’m sorry. I know what it’s like to have someone walk out on you.”

Y/N scoffed, clearly unimpressed, though the hurt was still evident on her face. “Oh, great, Katie McCabe is getting all sentimental now. Just what I needed.”

Katie clenched her jaw, resisting the urge to snap back. “You think I wanted to see this? That I wanted to hear it?”

Y/N glared, but her expression softened just a fraction, enough that Katie noticed. She took a hesitant step forward, her voice gentle.

“For what it’s worth, it sounds like you deserved a lot better than whoever that was,” Katie said.

Y/N’s shoulders dropped slightly, her eyes darting away. “It doesn’t matter now,” she murmured, her voice barely audible. “She… she didn’t want this.”

Katie studied her for a moment, feeling a strange pull to offer something—anything—to take away the hurt in Y/N’s eyes.

“You know…” Katie began, shoving her hands in her pockets, “you don’t have to pretend you’re fine. Not with me.”

Y/N let out a humorless laugh, blinking quickly. “Right. Because we’re best friends now, is that it?”

Katie shrugged, feeling a tinge of awkwardness but pushing past it. “Maybe not best friends. But we’re teammates. And even if we don’t always see eye to eye… I wouldn’t want you to go through this alone.”

Y/N didn’t respond immediately, just stared at her with an unreadable expression. After a long pause, she finally spoke, her voice softer than before.

“Well… thanks, I guess,” Y/N mumbled, still avoiding Katie’s gaze. “But I’m fine. Really.”

Katie bit back a sigh, nodding as she made her way to her side of the room. She didn’t say anything else, sensing that Y/N wasn’t ready for any more sympathy. But as she lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling, Katie couldn’t shake the feeling that she’d just seen a side of Y/N that no one else had.

And as much as she tried to ignore it, she couldn’t stop herself from feeling just a little bit protective.

It started with the water bottle.

Katie noticed it one morning at training. Y/N had been running late, clearly flustered and fumbling through her bag for her water bottle, only to come up empty-handed.

Katie had shrugged, grabbing her spare bottle and sliding it onto the bench beside Y/N’s stuff, just within reach. Y/N, too busy running drills, hadn’t even noticed when she came back for a quick drink, grabbing the bottle and taking a long gulp before heading back onto the field.

Katie rolled her eyes, a slight smirk tugging at her lips. Some gratitude.

But she couldn’t help herself. Over the next few days, Katie found herself picking up little habits to look out for Y/N, in ways so subtle even she didn’t notice at first.

It was as simple as setting a towel aside when Y/N forgot to bring one for cooldown. Or holding the door an extra second when she saw Y/N coming down the hall, still pulling her hair into a bun. Or making sure to hang back at dinner, subtly positioning herself between Y/N and some of the louder teammates whenever Y/N looked especially worn out.

The more Katie did it, the more she expected Y/N to notice. And each time Y/N passed her without so much as a glance, Katie felt a small sting of frustration.

One afternoon after practice, Y/N was struggling with the zipper on her duffel bag. It had been giving her trouble for days, and she kept muttering about needing to get it fixed.

Katie watched, casually leaning against the wall, as Y/N huffed and tried to yank the zipper free. It gave a metallic whine, refusing to budge.

Katie sighed, strolling over without a word. She knelt down and fiddled with the zipper for a moment, pressing her thumb just right to ease the snag. With a tug, it slid smoothly back into place.

“Oh,” Y/N said, glancing down at her now-functional zipper, then back up at Katie. “Thanks, I—” But she cut herself off, barely waiting for a nod from Katie before scooping up her bag and heading for the showers.

Katie watched her go, feeling a mix of annoyance and something strangely warmer, despite herself. Typical.

The next day, during scrimmage, Katie spotted Y/N wincing after a hard tackle. She wasn’t limping enough to stop, but Katie could tell her ankle was bothering her. Katie bit her lip, feeling her usual urge to call Y/N out on pushing through pain. Instead, she jogged over, staying close enough to offer support without being too obvious.

When they got a break, she made a detour to the medical kit, grabbing some extra ice packs and placing them discreetly on Y/N’s spot on the bench.

When Y/N finished her reps and slumped onto the bench, she picked up the ice packs and simply placed them over her ankle, not once questioning where they’d come from.

Katie shook her head with a chuckle. “Anytime,” she muttered to herself.

Later that week, during a team meeting, Katie noticed Y/N stifling a yawn and blinking rapidly, clearly struggling to keep her focus. She could tell Y/N had been staying up later than usual, maybe trying to brush off whatever was bothering her from the breakup.

The trainer’s voice droned on, and Katie waited until Y/N was busy with her notepad before she nudged her coffee closer to Y/N’s side of the table. Y/N glanced down, grabbed the mug absentmindedly, and took a long sip.

Katie waited for a glimmer of acknowledgment—a nod, maybe even a “thanks.” But Y/N just sipped the coffee and jotted down notes, her eyes still fixed on the front of the room.

Katie felt a small surge of irritation but forced herself to push it aside. Why am I even bothering?

Yet, despite her frustration, she found herself continuing with these tiny gestures. An extra granola bar left on Y/N’s seat before team meetings, an occasional shoulder check to steady her if she stumbled during drills, even switching spots with her in line to help her avoid the players she didn’t mesh well with.

Finally, after nearly two weeks of subtle attempts, Katie had reached her breaking point.

During one particularly long cooldown session, Katie found herself stretching next to Y/N. Y/N didn’t seem to notice her there, too focused on a knot in her calf muscle. Katie watched as she grimaced, clearly not getting anywhere with it.

Without thinking, Katie moved closer, reaching out to massage the muscle. “You know,” she said, her voice holding an edge of exasperation, “you could at least say ‘thank you’ once in a while.”

Y/N looked up, her brow furrowing. “What?”

Katie huffed. “You seriously haven’t noticed, have you?”

“Noticed what?” Y/N said, genuinely perplexed.

Katie shook her head, half-amused, half-irritated. “The water bottle? The extra ice packs? The coffee that you practically inhaled every team meeting?”

Y/N blinked, realization dawning slowly. Her mouth opened slightly, like she was about to say something, but then closed again. Her gaze dropped, and for the first time, she looked… apologetic.

“Oh,” she finally muttered, scratching the back of her head awkwardly. “I… didn’t know.”

Katie rolled her eyes, exasperated. “Of course you didn’t.”

Y/N laughed, a small, awkward sound. “Well… thanks. I mean, you didn’t have to do any of that.”

Katie shrugged, masking the warmth that flickered in her chest. “Yeah, well, someone’s gotta keep you in line.”

Y/N smirked, her usual attitude returning. “Oh, is that what you’re doing? Babysitting me?”

“Just think of it as… charity work,” Katie shot back with a grin.

They both laughed, the tension between them dissipating, at least for the moment. And though Katie tried to play it cool, she couldn’t help feeling that maybe—just maybe—Y/N was starting to see her in a new light.

Katie hadn’t planned to tell anyone. But that afternoon, as she sat in the lounge with Beth, she couldn’t keep it in any longer. The Arsenal squad was in rare form, laughter echoing around the room as they wound down after another tough practice, and Y/N, as always, had been at the center of Katie’s attention.

Beth nudged her, eyes gleaming mischievously. “You’ve been staring at her all week, Katie. What’s going on?”

Katie hesitated, glancing around the room. Most of the team was busy in their own conversations, so she leaned in closer to Beth, muttering, “Okay, fine. But you cannot tell anyone. I… might like her.”

Beth’s eyes widened, a huge grin spreading across her face. “Oh. My. God.”

Katie shushed her quickly, cheeks blazing. “Quiet! I mean it, Beth. I didn’t even want to tell you, but… it’s just been eating me up. She doesn’t even notice half the things I do for her, and I can’t figure out if she hates me or if she’s just clueless.”

Beth stifled a laugh, bouncing on her toes with excitement. “Katie, that’s huge! Why haven’t you told her?”

Katie sighed, shrugging. “I don’t even know if she likes me back. I mean, she barely notices anything I do—she probably thinks I’m just being a decent teammate.”

Beth shook her head. “Katie, you’re doing all these things for her! Trust me, she has to have noticed something by now.”

Katie smiled, shaking her head. “Yeah, well, don’t get your hopes up. This is between you and me, got it?”

Beth nodded, miming zipping her lips. “My lips are sealed.”

But Beth’s “sealed lips” didn’t last very long.

Only a few minutes later, Beth noticed Leah, Viv, and several other teammates standing around the table. The temptation was too much for her, and before she could stop herself, she burst out, “Katie just told me she likes Y/N!”

The room fell into a stunned silence.

Katie’s eyes went wide, her face flushing a bright red. “Beth! Are you serious?” she practically hissed, mortified.

But it was too late. Leah’s face lit up with a teasing grin, Viv stifled a laugh, and soon enough, the entire room erupted with whispers and giggles.

Katie felt her heart pounding. She couldn’t bear to stay there a second longer. Without a word, she stood up, gave Beth an incredulous glare, and marched out of the room, ignoring the amused looks from her teammates.

Katie headed outside, needing air. She leaned against the wall, letting the cool breeze calm her as she took deep breaths, trying to settle her nerves. How could Beth just blurt it out like that? she fumed internally, running a hand over her face.

She didn’t expect anyone to follow her, let alone Y/N.

“Katie?”

Katie froze, her heart skipping a beat as she turned to see Y/N standing a few steps away, her expression a mix of confusion and… something else Katie couldn’t quite read.

Y/N stepped closer, her voice soft. “Did… did Beth mean what she said in there?”

Katie took a breath, her heart racing as she nodded. “Yeah. She wasn’t supposed to say anything, though. I didn’t even know if you’d feel the same way, and now the entire team knows, so if this is weird for you—”

Y/N cut her off with a quiet laugh. “Katie, it’s not weird. Actually… I’ve been wanting to tell you something too.”

Katie’s eyes widened, her heart pounding as Y/N closed the gap between them.

“I didn’t realize it at first,” Y/N began, looking down, cheeks tinged with a soft blush. “But over these past few weeks… you’ve been doing all these little things. Looking out for me in ways no one else does, even when I’m too dense to see it. And I guess… I’ve kind of been waiting for you to say something.” She paused, biting her lip nervously. “I like you too, Katie.”

Katie blinked, almost unable to believe her ears. “You… you do?”

Y/N nodded, smiling a little. “Yeah, I do. Even though we were at each other’s throats when I first joined, I think I just tried to deny what I was feeling. But… the way you’ve looked out for me, Katie, it’s hard not to feel something.”

They stood there in silence for a moment, the weight of their confessions hanging in the air between them. Then, Katie finally let out a small, relieved laugh. “I was terrified you’d laugh in my face.”

Y/N grinned, taking a small step closer until they were just inches apart. “Oh, I’m laughing, just not in the way you thought.”

With that, Y/N reached for Katie’s hand, intertwining their fingers. Katie felt her heart leap, the warmth of Y/N’s hand grounding her, making all the embarrassment from earlier disappear.

Inside, the team was still chattering excitedly, clearly wondering what was going on. But as Katie looked into Y/N’s eyes, she found she didn’t care. The only thing that mattered was right here in front of her.

Y/N squeezed her hand, giving her a playful smirk. “Now, what do you say we head back in there and let them have their fun?”

Katie laughed, shaking her head. “Fine, but if they start planning our wedding, I’m holding you accountable.”

Y/N grinned, tugging her hand gently as they turned to head back inside, this time together, ready to face the team—and whatever teasing awaited them—with their newfound feelings finally out in the open.

Katie and Y/N paused just outside the team lounge, exchanging sly looks. The buzz of conversation inside was unmistakable; their teammates were clearly still talking about Beth’s big reveal.

Katie raised an eyebrow. “So, what do you say we make them sweat a bit?”

Y/N smirked. “I’m in. Let’s give them a little show.”

With that, the two of them arranged their faces into tense expressions, putting on their best fake scowls before stepping back into the room.

As soon as they entered, the chatter quieted, and all eyes turned to them. Katie glanced at Y/N with an exaggerated look of disdain.

“You know what, Y/N? I don’t know why I even bothered!” Katie said loudly, throwing her hands up. “Trying to be nice, trying to get along… I’m done with it.”

Y/N crossed her arms, glaring right back. “Oh, you’re done? Trust me, Katie, I’m the one who’s done. You don’t make anything easy, do you?”

Their teammates exchanged wide-eyed looks, glancing at each other nervously. Leah, who had been watching with an expectant grin just moments before, now looked on in alarm.

“Uh… guys?” Beth said hesitantly, guilt creeping into her voice. “This wasn’t… I didn’t mean for you two to—”

Katie cut her off, waving a hand. “You know what, Beth? Maybe next time, don’t go blabbing about things that aren’t your business.”

Beth’s mouth dropped open, her face a mix of shock and regret. Leah stepped forward, trying to smooth things over. “Hey, maybe we can all just, uh, talk this out?”

Y/N rolled her eyes, letting out a dramatic sigh. “Katie and I don’t need to talk it out, Leah. Maybe everyone just needs to mind their own business.”

Viv and Alessia looked around nervously, while Beth buried her face in her hands, clearly mortified.

Katie shot Y/N a quick, barely perceptible wink. “You know what, Y/N? I’d say you’re insufferable, but I think that’s what I’m starting to—”

“Love about you,” Y/N finished, barely able to keep a straight face as she leaned toward Katie with a smirk.

The whole team froze, blinking in confusion as they processed what they’d just heard. It took only a beat before Y/N and Katie broke into laughter, dropping their ‘argument’ and looking around at their stunned teammates.

Katie grinned, finally breaking character. “Honestly, the lot of you are terrible at keeping secrets. Who does Beth blurt my business to the second she hears it?”

Beth’s face went from horror to relief as she realized they’d been messing with her. “Oh, come on! I just—well, it’s your fault, Katie! You’re the one who’s been acting all lovesick and obvious.”

Leah crossed her arms, trying to look stern but failing to hide her grin. “So, all this fighting was just to get back at us for meddling?”

Y/N shrugged, trying to keep a straight face as she raised an eyebrow. “What can we say? This is what happens when people get nosy.”

Alessia let out a dramatic sigh of relief, clutching her chest. “Honestly, I thought you were about to rip each other’s heads off. That was terrifying!”

Viv laughed, shaking her head. “Katie, you and Y/N put on quite the performance.”

Katie chuckled, leaning back against the wall. “Glad you all enjoyed the show. But seriously, maybe next time let me handle my own feelings, yeah?”

Y/N joined her, their hands brushing together subtly as she added, “Yeah. We don’t need the whole squad poking around in our business.”

Beth raised her hands in surrender, laughing. “Alright, fine, we’ll leave you two alone… for now. But I make no promises if you keep acting so obvious!”

Katie smirked, glancing sideways at Y/N. “Well, then, it looks like we’ll have to give you even more to talk about, won’t we?”

The team groaned, but the laughter filled the room once more, and Katie and Y/N couldn’t help but share a quiet smile. Their secret was out, but they couldn’t have cared less. They had each other’s backs—and they’d gotten a good laugh at everyone’s expense in the process.

It had only been a few months since Katie and Y/N had made things official, but to the rest of the Arsenal squad, it felt like they'd been together forever. The two of them were always bickering over the most trivial things, and yet, anyone could see they were absolutely smitten.

This morning, their “married couple” energy was on full display.

As the team gathered for breakfast at the training camp, Katie spotted Y/N piling her plate with pancakes and shook her head in disbelief.

“Seriously, Y/N?” Katie huffed, grabbing the last banana from the fruit bowl. “Do you ever think of eating something healthy?”

Y/N rolled her eyes, sprinkling powdered sugar on her stack with a flourish. “Relax, Katie, it’s not like I’m eating this every day.” She took a big bite and chewed dramatically, as if daring Katie to say something else.

Katie squinted at her. “You say that, but I’ve seen you at every team breakfast loading up on pancakes like they’re going out of style.”

Y/N shrugged, unbothered. “I need my fuel to keep up with you, don’t I?”

Beth, sitting across from them, tried to hide a laugh behind her coffee cup. Leah, on her right, leaned over, whispering loudly enough for everyone to hear, “Are we sure they’re not already married?”

Katie shot Leah a mock glare. “Oh, don’t start, Williamson. You should be grateful I’m trying to keep her in check!”

Y/N scoffed, reaching over to grab a bit of fruit from Katie’s plate. “I think we both know you’re more high-maintenance than me, Katie.”

Katie smacked her hand away, giving her a playful glare. “Get your own fruit!”

Viv, sipping her tea nearby, raised an eyebrow. “This is seriously like watching my parents fight,” she said, shaking her head with an amused smile.

Katie and Y/N both shot her glares, in perfect sync. “Excuse me?” they said in unison, which only made the team laugh even harder.

Rolling her eyes, Katie sighed dramatically. “Alright, fine. Go ahead, eat all the pancakes. But don’t come crying to me when you’re too sluggish to keep up in training.”

Y/N put her hand over her heart, feigning offense. “I would never blame you for my poor training performance, darling.” She winked, causing Katie to flush just a little as the team watched with knowing grins.

Beth nudged Leah, barely able to contain her laughter. “This is top-tier entertainment.”

After breakfast, the team gathered for a light warm-up, and Y/N, still high on carbs and a little bit of mischief, kept tripping Katie up by tapping her ankles or nudging her playfully whenever Katie wasn’t looking.

“Will you stop it?” Katie snapped, swatting Y/N’s hand away for the third time. “You’re like a child.”

“Oh, come on, you love it.” Y/N smirked, running ahead to avoid Katie’s inevitable comeback. Katie shook her head, unable to hide the smile tugging at her lips.

Later, during a water break, Y/N handed Katie her water bottle, and Katie took it, squinting at her suspiciously. “Why are you being nice all of a sudden?”

Y/N shrugged innocently. “Can’t a girl do something nice for her girlfriend without being accused of having ulterior motives?”

Katie narrowed her eyes, then reluctantly took a sip. “Fine. Thanks, I guess.”

Just as she was about to take another drink, Y/N added, “By the way, I might have accidentally taken a sip out of that earlier.”

Katie’s eyes widened, looking at the bottle with mock horror. “Oh, you’re disgusting.”

Y/N gave her a cheeky grin. “You’re just figuring this out now?”

They continued their playful back-and-forth as the training session wound down, and their teammates could only shake their heads, thoroughly entertained. By now, it was a given: if Y/N and Katie were in the room, a bit of banter was sure to follow.

As they walked back to the locker room, Katie nudged Y/N, speaking just loud enough for only her to hear. “You’re lucky I love you, you know that?”

Y/N grinned, sliding an arm around her shoulders. “Oh, trust me, I know. And I love you too, even when you steal all the bananas.”

Katie scoffed but leaned into her, their usual bickering temporarily replaced by a comfortable silence.

From behind them, Leah whispered to Viv, “I swear, they’re like an old married couple.”

And for once, neither Y/N nor Katie could argue with that.

The Arsenal squad had been dropping hints all week, not-so-subtly trying to convince either Katie or Y/N to take their relationship to the next level. With every passing day, the nudges and winks became more obvious.

During a team meeting, Leah leaned over to Y/N and whispered, “So, when are you finally going to propose? Don’t you think it’s about time?”

Beth joined in, nudging Katie. “You’re both head over heels. One of you has to pop the question sometime.”

Katie and Y/N exchanged a quick look, and that was all it took for them to come up with the perfect plan. If their teammates wanted drama, well, they’d get some—but not in the way they expected.

That Friday, right after training, the team was lounging in the common room, chatting away. Katie and Y/N entered the room together, but the air between them felt… tense. They both wore exaggerated frowns, and the whole squad quickly sensed that something was off.

Katie sighed loudly, folding her arms as she glanced around the room. “You know what, Y/N? I think we need to talk.”

Y/N crossed her arms as well, turning to face Katie with an indignant glare. “Oh, I’m the one who’s difficult? Right, because it’s never you, Katie.”

Their teammates immediately exchanged panicked glances, sensing trouble. Viv’s mouth dropped open slightly, and Leah subtly motioned for everyone to keep quiet.

Katie sighed dramatically, rolling her eyes. “Honestly, I don’t think I can deal with this anymore.”

“Oh, I don’t think I can deal with you anymore!” Y/N shot back, her voice getting louder. She placed her hands on her hips and turned to the team. “Can you all believe this? She thinks she can just tell me what to do like I’m some rookie!”

Beth’s eyes widened in horror as she looked at the others, mouthing, “What did we do?”

Leah, clearly caught between intervening and staying out of it, held up her hands. “Hey, guys… maybe we can talk this out? I mean, no need to… break up or anything.”

Katie scoffed. “Why not, Leah? Maybe it’s exactly what we need. It’s not like she listens to me anyway!”

Y/N threw her hands in the air, her voice tinged with mock hurt. “Fine, Katie! If that’s how you feel, maybe we’re just better off apart!”

The whole room fell into a stunned silence. Alessia looked horrified, Beth looked guilty, and Viv was on the verge of intervening. Just as they were about to step in, Y/N turned her back to Katie, but not before giving her a tiny, knowing smirk.

Katie matched her smirk and kept her voice stern. “Fine. Then let’s be done with it.”

At that, the team could no longer hold back.

Beth jumped up, wide-eyed. “No, no, no, don’t do this! This is all our fault. We pushed you two too hard!”

Leah held her hands out pleadingly. “We’re sorry! You two are great together. Don’t do anything you’ll regret.”

Katie and Y/N shared a quick glance, barely containing their laughter. But they kept up the act a little longer.

Y/N shook her head, turning toward the door. “Maybe if everyone minded their own business, we wouldn’t be here.”

Alessia let out a desperate sigh, looking at them with puppy-dog eyes. “Please, just… don’t break up because of us. You two are like… Arsenal’s power couple!”

Finally, Katie and Y/N couldn’t hold it in anymore. They both burst into laughter, clutching their stomachs as they doubled over. The rest of the team looked on, baffled.

Y/N, still giggling, looked up at them and said, “Relax, we’re not actually breaking up.”

Katie wiped a fake tear from her eye. “But maybe you all should consider giving us some space before you end up with real relationship drama!”

The realization dawned on them, and the team’s horrified expressions turned to annoyed glares.

Beth threw a pillow at them. “You two are the worst! Do you know how much we panicked?”

Leah shook her head, laughing despite herself. “Honestly, I’ve never been so terrified. Thought you two were about to kill each other!”

Y/N grinned, wrapping an arm around Katie. “See, maybe this is a lesson. Next time, stay out of our business, alright?”

Katie gave Y/N a wink. “Or we might have to pull something even bigger on you lot.”

Viv crossed her arms, her lips quirked in amusement. “Duly noted. Maybe we’ll just let you propose when you’re ready.”

Katie and Y/N exchanged a secret smile, knowing that their real proposal would happen when they were ready—not a moment before. And for now, they were more than happy to keep their teammates on their toes.

It was a crisp autumn day at Arsenal's training ground, the air buzzing with anticipation. It had been exactly a year since Katie and Y/N’s infamous “breakup” prank, and Katie had been quietly planning a real surprise that would catch everyone off guard: a proposal. But, naturally, she couldn’t do it without one last prank.

The plan was simple: after a light morning training, Katie would gather everyone, fake a “heated argument” with Y/N, and then propose right when things seemed tense enough. With the ring already secured, she felt confident it would be a day no one would forget.

Training went smoothly until Katie called everyone over during the warm-down. Y/N, feigning confusion, trailed behind the team, giving Katie a questioning look as she shot her a conspiratorial wink.

“All of you, come here!” Katie called, looking as serious as possible, her tone carrying an edge that made everyone straighten up.

The team gathered around, exchanging wary glances. Leah raised an eyebrow, sensing something was off. “Katie, what’s going on?”

Katie crossed her arms, putting on her best frown. “I’ve had enough,” she said, loud enough for everyone to hear.

Y/N widened her eyes in mock alarm, playing her role perfectly. “Excuse me? You’ve had enough?”

Katie jabbed a finger in Y/N’s direction. “You never listen, Y/N! I can’t deal with this anymore.”

Beth’s eyes went wide as she exchanged a look with Viv, who mouthed, “Not again…”

Y/N crossed her arms and threw her head back. “You’re really doing this now, Katie? Here, in front of everyone?”

Katie clenched her fists, doing her best to look frustrated. “Yes, right now. Because apparently, nothing gets through to you otherwise!”

Leah stepped forward, looking horrified. “Guys… please, don’t do this again.”

Katie glared at Leah, not breaking character. “Stay out of this, Leah. This is between me and Y/N.”

Y/N scoffed, rolling her eyes. “Fine, then. Say what you have to say.”

The tension was thick, and the entire squad looked on, barely breathing. Alessia clutched Beth’s arm, her voice barely a whisper. “Are they seriously breaking up again?”

Just as the tension seemed unbearable, Katie sighed deeply and reached into her pocket. “You know what, Y/N? There’s only one thing I have left to say to you.”

Katie took a deep breath, pulled out the small black box, and dropped to one knee. The entire team gasped, jaws dropping in unison as realization hit them.

Katie looked up at Y/N, her eyes softening. “Y/N, you’re my everything. I love you more than I can even say. I’m done pretending, done pranking—well, after this one, anyway.” She chuckled softly. “Will you marry me?”

Y/N’s jaw dropped, her eyes wide as she took in the ring in Katie’s hands. Then, after a beat, she broke into a wide grin and nodded, letting a few tears fall. “Yes, Katie, of course!”

The team erupted in cheers, jumping and hugging each other in excitement and relief. Beth clapped her hands together, looking overjoyed. “Oh my god, this is amazing! Finally!”

Leah had tears in her eyes. “Katie McCabe, you scared us half to death again. But this time… I guess we can forgive you.”

Katie, still on her knee, shot them a mischievous grin as she slid the ring onto Y/N’s finger. “Didn’t think I’d let this go down without a bit of drama, did you?”

Y/N laughed, pulling her fiancée up into a tight hug. “You’re an absolute menace, you know that?”

Katie smirked, pressing a quick kiss to Y/N’s lips. “You love it.”

The team huddled around, bombarding them with hugs, questions, and a few well-deserved playful shoves. Viv crossed her arms, feigning annoyance but with a huge grin on her face. “You two need to stop toying with us!”

Beth wiped a tear away, grinning. “You’re officially banned from pranks after this. Next time, just get married in private and save us the heart attacks!”

Katie laughed, holding Y/N’s hand and looking around at her teammates—her family. “Alright, alright, no more pranks. But now you all owe us a huge celebration.”

And as the room filled with laughter, cheers, and a few well-placed jokes about “prank-ception,” Katie and Y/N shared a look, feeling incredibly lucky to be surrounded by the people who loved them, ready for this next chapter together.

It had been a few weeks since Katie’s dramatic proposal, and things had finally settled down. Y/N wore her engagement ring with pride, and Katie seemed to love showing off her fiancée at every opportunity. But Y/N couldn’t help but think that maybe Katie deserved a little payback for all the times she’d pulled off elaborate pranks over the last year. So, Y/N hatched a plan of her own.

On a sunny Thursday morning, Y/N decided to start her prank. She went about her morning as usual, chatting with Katie and joking around as they got ready for training—but she purposely left her engagement ring on the dresser. Katie didn’t seem to notice at first, so Y/N held back a smirk as she joined her fiancée in the kitchen for breakfast, acting like nothing was amiss.

Katie, completely oblivious, handed Y/N her coffee and started talking about the team’s drills for the day. Y/N kept the conversation going, waiting for Katie to catch on, but Katie remained oblivious until they arrived at training.

In the locker room, Y/N made sure to keep her hands visible as she changed, hoping one of the girls would notice first. She could see Katie a few lockers over, chatting with Beth and Leah, so she subtly flashed her left hand to Viv, who immediately noticed.

“Y/N… where’s your ring?” Viv asked with a surprised look.

Katie’s head whipped around so fast it could have caused whiplash. She immediately zeroed in on Y/N’s bare finger, her eyes narrowing.

Y/N feigned a casual shrug. “Oh, must’ve forgotten it this morning.”

Katie’s face fell, clearly caught off guard. “Forgotten it? How do you… forget it?”

Y/N kept a straight face, casually slipping her socks on. “I don’t know, Katie. Just did.”

Katie stared at her, brow furrowing, clearly perturbed. “Didn’t think it was something you’d forget,” she muttered, crossing her arms.

Beth and Leah exchanged amused looks, sensing the tension. Leah, never one to resist poking the bear, gave Y/N an exaggerated gasp. “Y/N, isn’t that ring, like, supposed to be your most prized possession?”

Y/N bit back a grin, shrugging as nonchalantly as possible. “I mean, it’s important, sure, but people forget things, right? Just a ring.”

Katie’s mouth dropped open. “Just a ring?!” she repeated, louder than she meant to. “You do know I picked it out especially for you, right?”

Y/N gave her an innocent look. “Of course I know, babe,” she said sweetly. “I’ll just… wear it tomorrow, okay?”

Katie’s face went through a rapid cycle of emotions—disbelief, annoyance, and, finally, resignation as she turned to Beth. “Can you believe this? I spent weeks picking that ring out, and she just forgets it.”

Beth, barely able to keep from laughing, put a sympathetic hand on Katie’s shoulder. “Hey, maybe she just needs some time to get used to it.”

Katie looked back at Y/N, an incredulous expression on her face. “Are you serious, Y/N?”

Y/N stifled her laughter, holding Katie’s gaze. “What? I’m dead serious. It’s not a big deal. I’ll bring it tomorrow.”

Katie huffed, mumbling under her breath, “If I’d known you’d be this casual about it…”

The rest of training was filled with Katie throwing occasional glances Y/N’s way, muttering to herself whenever she saw that bare finger. The team, now fully aware of what was going on, watched with barely concealed amusement. Katie was wound up, and Y/N could tell she was doing everything she could not to bring it up again in front of the team.

After training, as they headed back to the locker room, Katie finally pulled Y/N aside, her voice low and urgent.

“Alright, what’s going on, Y/N? Are you… are you having second thoughts?”

Y/N’s eyes widened, and she could see genuine worry in Katie’s gaze. Immediately, she softened, realizing she might have taken the prank a little too far. But the teasing part of her couldn’t resist one last push.

“Second thoughts?” she said, raising an eyebrow. “Maybe about who’s better at pranks…”

Katie blinked, processing what Y/N had just said, then narrowed her eyes, realization dawning. “You… you’re pranking me?!”

Y/N laughed, reaching out to take Katie’s hand. “Guilty. Thought you could use a taste of your own medicine. Didn’t like thinking I’d forgotten the ring, did you?”

Katie’s face turned from annoyance to a playful smirk. “You’re unbelievable, you know that?”

Y/N grinned, pulling her fiancée close. “That’s why you love me.”

Katie sighed, rolling her eyes with a reluctant smile. “Fine, fine. But don’t ever forget that ring again—or I’ll find a way to make you pay for it.”

Y/N laughed, bringing her hand up to show the ring she’d stashed in her pocket the whole time. “I could never actually forget it. Just needed to remind you that I can keep up with your pranks any day.”

Katie leaned in, pressing a quick kiss to her lips. “Noted. But next time, just wear the ring. I like showing off my fiancée.”

As they headed back to the team, hand in hand, they could hear the cheers and applause of their meddlesome teammates, who’d been watching the entire exchange. Katie just rolled her eyes, but Y/N squeezed her hand, grateful for every second of their ridiculous love.

A quiet evening had settled over London, and for the first time in what felt like ages, Katie and Y/N had the night all to themselves. No pranks, no training early in the morning—just the two of them, sprawled out on the couch, a bottle of wine between them, with an old movie neither of them was paying much attention to playing softly in the background.

Y/N swirled her wine glass and leaned back, a lazy smile on her face. "Remember when you hated me? How I 'ruined' every Arsenal training session?"

Katie snorted, nearly spilling her wine as she nudged Y/N with her shoulder. "Correction: you ruined my training sessions. And yes, I remember. Loud and clear."

Y/N rolled her eyes, chuckling. "The first time we trained together, you went for my ankles like I’d stolen your dog."

Katie threw her head back laughing. “You’re not far off. In my defense, you were showing off a Northern Ireland crest tattoo , and I was not ready to see that at my club.”

Y/N raised an eyebrow. “And that justified tripping me every five minutes?”

Katie smirked, leaning a little closer. “You kept saying you’d 'walk right back to Ireland' if I tripped you one more time. I was just… testing your resolve.”

Y/N let out a fake gasp, pressing a hand to her chest. "Oh, so you were helping me develop mental toughness?”

Katie grinned. "Exactly. You should be thanking me."

Y/N laughed, shaking her head. “You were ruthless, McCabe. Always muttering something under your breath. I thought you’d genuinely curse me every time I touched the ball.”

Katie shot her a playful glare. “Oh, believe me, I was close. I couldn’t stand seeing you on the pitch. And you didn’t make it easy with your cheeky little comments about the ‘inferior side’ either.”

Y/N snickered, taking a sip of her wine. “I don’t know why I did that, honestly. Probably because of the look on your face every time. It was priceless.”

Katie rolled her eyes, but her expression softened as she looked over at Y/N. “The thing is… somewhere along the way, I kinda started to look forward to those arguments. It was the highlight of my day. Even if it drove me mad.”

Y/N smiled, her eyes warm as she studied Katie’s face. “Me too. I never thought I’d actually like you, let alone… you know, love you.”

Katie softened, a little smile tugging at her lips. “You’re pretty impossible not to love.”

Y/N’s smile grew wider, and she nudged Katie’s leg with her foot. “Careful, you’re getting sentimental on me.”

Katie laughed, leaning into her fiancée’s shoulder. “Fine, no more mushy talk. But I’m glad we got past all that rivalry stuff. I couldn’t imagine my life without you now.”

They both fell silent, their gazes drifting to the city lights through the window. After a moment, Katie broke the quiet.

“Do you think we’d still hate each other if we played on different teams?”

Y/N pondered it, tapping her fingers on her glass thoughtfully. “Probably. But I’d also be wondering what you were up to, wondering if you’d still get all mad whenever I got near the goal.”

Katie chuckled, shaking her head. “Knowing us, we’d probably be rivals forever, but the kind that secretly roots for each other.”

They both smiled at the thought, and Katie leaned closer, resting her head against Y/N’s shoulder, intertwining their fingers. The silence between them wasn’t awkward; it was comfortable, the kind of peace that comes when you’ve been through enough ups and downs together to appreciate the simple moments.

Katie eventually broke the silence again, her voice a soft murmur. “We’ve come a long way, haven’t we?”

Y/N gave her hand a gentle squeeze. “We really have.”

For a while, they just sat there, sharing the quiet, letting the past fade as they enjoyed the present, right where they were supposed to be—together.

The stadium was buzzing as the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland lined up across from each other. The energy was electric, and the fans were on their feet, ready for an intense ninety minutes of international rivalry. But neither team was as fired up as Katie and Y/N.

Katie met Y/N’s gaze from across the pitch, her eyes narrowed with a fierce, competitive glint. Y/N shot her a smirk, giving a small, taunting wave. Katie rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide the tiny smile tugging at her lips.

“Don’t get too comfortable,” Katie muttered as she jogged past Y/N in warm-ups, a hint of playfulness in her voice. “We’re taking you down today.”

Y/N snorted, tilting her head. “Good luck with that, McCabe. Northern Ireland’s ready for anything you throw at us.”

The game kicked off with both teams giving their all, and Katie and Y/N held nothing back. The crowd watched in awe as Katie, with her usual intensity, threw herself into tackles and pushed her team forward at every opportunity. Y/N matched her, intercepting passes, making blocks, and turning every corner into a chance to push Northern Ireland on the offensive.

There was a moment in the first half when they clashed, literally. Katie went for a sliding tackle, and Y/N dodged it just in time, but the two ended up shoulder to shoulder, glaring at each other with intense, unwavering stares.

Katie huffed out a laugh, her voice just low enough for Y/N to hear, “You’re not getting past me, Y/N.”

Y/N smirked, leaning in just a bit. “We’ll see, Katie. You’re not as tough as you think.”

Katie’s eyes narrowed, and for the briefest moment, Y/N thought she saw a twinkle of amusement there. “Keep dreaming, Y/L/N,” Katie shot back before sprinting after the ball.

As the game wore on, Northern Ireland managed to secure a goal, and the crowd went wild. Y/N, barely containing her excitement, ran back down the pitch, purposefully catching Katie’s eye with a smirk. Katie clenched her fists, determination blazing, and pushed her team even harder.

In the final minutes, with both sides exhausted, Katie got the ball in midfield and went on a run, weaving past Y/N and narrowly missing a goal with a powerful shot that hit the crossbar. Y/N bit back a sigh of relief as the whistle finally blew, signaling the end of the match.

Northern Ireland had won.

Katie, catching her breath, stayed on her side of the pitch, hands on her hips, looking frustrated but undeniably proud. Y/N jogged over to her, eyes gleaming as she slowed down right in front of Katie.

“Guess the best team won, huh?” Y/N teased, her smile mischievous.

Katie rolled her eyes, trying to hold back a grin. “Don’t start, Y/N. We’ll get you next time.”

Y/N raised an eyebrow, leaning in closer. “You sure about that? Looked like your team was working pretty hard to keep up.”

Katie huffed, crossing her arms in mock annoyance. “You’re lucky we’re off the pitch right now, or I’d wipe that smirk off your face.”

Y/N chuckled, stepping even closer until there was barely any space between them. “Oh, would you now? Guess we’ll never know.” Her voice softened as she nudged Katie’s shoulder, eyes softening as she spoke. “You played amazing, Katie. I mean it.”

Katie’s faux-scowl melted as she looked back at Y/N, a smile breaking through. “You too, babe. Guess we really do bring out the best in each other, huh?”

Y/N nodded, her heart swelling. She glanced around to make sure no one was watching and then quickly pulled Katie into a hug, burying her face in Katie’s shoulder for a brief moment. Katie hugged her back just as tightly, whispering, “I love you, but I’m still mad you won.”

Y/N laughed, pulling back with a grin. “You’ll survive. And besides, this just means I get bragging rights all month.”

Katie groaned, rolling her eyes but unable to hide her smile. “Fine, fine. But don’t get too used to it.”

They exchanged one last look before heading back to their respective teams, but both knew they’d be right back in each other’s arms as soon as they could slip away.

Back at the hotel that night, after a post-match dinner and some inevitable teasing from teammates, Y/N finally managed to catch Katie alone in the hallway. Katie smirked as soon as she saw her, folding her arms.

“Don’t think this means I’m letting you off easy. You might’ve won today, but I’ll be back,” Katie said, trying to keep her tone serious but failing to hide the sparkle in her eyes.

Y/N grinned, stepping close and resting her hand on Katie’s arm. “I’m looking forward to it, McCabe. I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

Katie gave her a teasing glare. “Just you wait, Y/L/N. Next time, it’ll be me teasing you.”

Y/N laughed, pressing a quick kiss to Katie’s cheek before pulling her into a hug. “Bring it on. But until then, you’ll just have to deal with the fact that I’m the winner.”

Katie groaned but hugged her tighter. “Yeah, yeah. Enjoy it while it lasts, Y/N. I’m coming for that win next time.”

They held each other close, the rivalry left on the field as they enjoyed the comfort of each other’s arms. All the banter, all the competition—it only made this moment feel even sweeter.

Three years had flown by, and Y/N and Katie’s lives had changed in ways they’d once only imagined. Now, not only were they partners in life and still teammates on Arsenal’s pitch, but they had a little girl, Ava, who had quickly become the light of their lives. With Katie’s fiery attitude and Y/N’s quiet determination, Ava had inherited quite the personality—and a strong set of lungs to match.

The whole team had gathered at the park for an impromptu picnic. As Ava toddled around, squealing in delight as she chased the team’s soccer balls, Katie and Y/N watched on with quiet smiles, occasionally casting each other amused glances.

Leah, watching Ava attempt to kick a ball with all her might (and only managing to send it rolling gently forward), chuckled and leaned over to Katie with a smirk. “So…have you two decided yet?” she asked mischievously.

Katie squinted at her, confused. “Decided what?”

Leah tilted her head toward Ava, grinning. “Which team Ava’s going to support, Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland?”

Y/N laughed, rolling her eyes. “Oh, don’t get her started, Leah. She’s already making plans.”

Katie nudged Y/N, giving her a mock glare. “Oi, plans? She’s obviously going to support Ireland—my Ireland.”

“Oh really?” Y/N shot back, folding her arms, a playful challenge in her eyes. “She’s as much my daughter as yours, Katie. Northern Ireland’s got plenty to offer.”

Katie scoffed, placing her hands on her hips. “Name one thing Northern Ireland’s got that beats a Republic of Ireland jersey with ‘McCabe’ on the back.”

Y/N grinned. “How about an NI jersey with Y/L/N on it?” She glanced over to see Ava waving the soccer ball at Leah, who was playing along by dramatically pretending she couldn’t catch it. “See? She’s already got Leah wrapped around her finger. An arsenal fan, through and through at least.”

Katie gasped in mock offense, clutching her chest. “Leah, you traitor!”

Leah shrugged, holding back laughter. “Hey, don’t drag me into this! Besides,” she teased, winking at Katie, “everyone knows I’m Ava’s favorite. So, maybe she’ll grow up as a Lioness.”

Katie rolled her eyes. “Lioness? Not a chance. You’ll see—first time she sees her mama in green, she’ll be cheering with pride.” She reached over and scooped Ava up, spinning her around, and Ava squealed with delight. “Right, Ava? You’ll wear green like your mama, won’t you?”

Ava’s tiny fists pumped into the air as she babbled excitedly, though neither Katie nor Y/N could make out a single word. But Ava’s enthusiasm was enough to make Katie beam, certain she’d just gotten the confirmation she wanted.

Y/N laughed, crossing her arms and shaking her head. “We’ll see about that, Katie. I’ve got time to win her over.”

Katie turned back, smirking. “Oh, it’s on, Y/L/N. But don’t say I didn’t warn you when you’re dealing with a McCabe superfan in a few years.”

The two shared a laugh, but as Katie pulled Y/N in close, their teasing faded into warm smiles. Ava squirmed between them, clearly ready to return to her soccer ball, and Katie set her down with a grin. They watched Ava charge toward Leah, babbling in her own language as she went, and Katie squeezed Y/N’s hand.

“Guess we’ll just have to wait and see,” Katie murmured, her voice soft and full of affection.

Y/N leaned her head against Katie’s shoulder, eyes on their little girl. “Yeah, but whatever team she ends up cheering for, she’ll always be our little star.”

Katie nodded, resting her head against Y/N’s. “Our little Ava—future football legend, no matter the color.”

As Ava squealed with joy, Leah joined the couple, shaking her head in amusement. “I’ll say this, though—Ava’s got the luckiest parents in the world. And if we’re being honest,” she added with a grin, “she’s going to be one heck of a player no matter which team she roots for.”

Katie and Y/N exchanged a proud smile, both knowing that Leah was absolutely right. Their daughter was already shaping up to be just as fierce and full of heart as her mothers.

Seventeen years had passed, and the day Y/N and Katie had always joked about—but secretly dreaded—had finally arrived. Their daughter, Ava, now a young football sensation in her own right, was making her England debut. England. Of all teams. She was a Lioness.

As the stadium buzzed with excitement, Katie sat grumbling in the stands, arms folded across her chest. Y/N was next to her, frowning at the England flag waving on the big screen as it showcased Ava’s name. Meanwhile, Leah, sitting on the other side of Y/N, was practically bouncing with pride, her England scarf wrapped around her shoulders.

Katie leaned toward Y/N, muttering in a voice loud enough for Leah to hear, “Unbelievable. How did we let this happen?”

Y/N sighed, shaking her head. “Years of her godmother whispering in her ear, that’s how.”

Leah laughed, unfazed by their grumbling. “Oh, come on, you two! You can’t deny she’s right where she belongs.”

Katie scoffed, her arms still crossed tightly. “I can’t believe I’m about to cheer for England. My own daughter… in a white jersey!”

Leah rolled her eyes, turning to Y/N. “Come on, back me up here, Y/N. You’ve been through her endless debating, the sleepless nights before choosing. You know she loves this team.”

Y/N groaned, torn between her pride for Ava and her allegiance to her own roots. “I know, I know. But it’s still surreal, Leah. Our little Ava could’ve chosen any team.”

Katie shot Y/N a look, nodding in agreement. “Exactly. Republic of Ireland was right there.”

Leah laughed again, shaking her head. “Oh, come on. We all knew from the time she was little that she’d choose England. I mean, look at her godmother.” She winked and pointed proudly to herself, her England scarf gleaming under the stadium lights.

Katie rolled her eyes. “Yeah, exactly. Look what we’re stuck with. This is what happens when you let Leah be a godmother.”

Y/N chuckled, nudging Katie’s shoulder. “Oh, stop it. It’s not the worst thing in the world. At least she’s playing for someone’s team here.”

Katie huffed, waving her hand dismissively. “Fine, but I’m blaming Leah for the rest of my life.”

At that moment, the players ran out onto the field, and Ava’s name flashed on the jumbotron. Leah jumped to her feet, clapping and cheering, while Katie and Y/N joined in, though their clapping was far less enthusiastic.

As Ava glanced up toward the stands, she spotted them, giving a big grin and a wave. Katie softened just a bit, nudging Y/N. “Look at that face. She’s having the time of her life, isn’t she?”

Y/N smiled, a mix of pride and amusement in her eyes. “She is. And she looks just like you when you played your first match. Well…minus the green jersey.”

Katie rolled her eyes but couldn’t help the smile spreading across her face. “Alright, alright. I admit it. I’m proud. But I’ll be even prouder if she scores against Leah’s team.”

Leah laughed again, clearly enjoying every second of this. “In your dreams, Katie. Ava’s going to make you eat those words when she scores her first England goal!”

As the whistle blew, the game kicked off, and for all their grumbling, Katie and Y/N couldn’t take their eyes off their daughter, watching her every move with a mixture of awe and pride.

And when Ava did finally score—her very first goal in an England shirt—the stadium erupted in cheers, with Leah leaping to her feet, shouting, “That’s my goddaughter!”

Katie let out a groan but stood up, clapping nonetheless, and muttered under her breath, “Fine… maybe England isn’t all bad.”

Y/N squeezed Katie’s hand, her eyes misty as she watched Ava celebrate with her teammates. “Yeah, maybe not. Just this once.”

Leah smirked, her face filled with triumph. “I knew you two would come around eventually.”

Katie shot her a playful glare. “Don’t get too smug, Leah. She may be wearing white now, but she’ll still always be our daughter first.”

Leah threw an arm around both of them, laughing as the three of them watched Ava jog back to the halfway line, glowing with pride and excitement. “Lucky for her, she’s got the best of both worlds.”

Y/N and Katie exchanged a look, finally giving in and laughing along. For all their teasing and the years of rivalry, nothing could change the love they felt for their daughter, no matter what colors she wore.

After the international break the transfer season opened up, and with it a whole other can of worms.

Ava’s transfer to Chelsea had been the talk of the league for weeks, but when the official announcement dropped, it hit harder than any of them expected. Ava McCabe-Y/L/N, a product of the Arsenal academy, and the daughter of two Arsenal legends, was making the switch to their fiercest rival.

When Katie and Y/N arrived at the pub, the mood was thick with tension, and every player they passed wore expressions ranging from shock to outright betrayal. By the time they reached the tables, the team was buzzing with mixed emotions.

Katie put her hands on her hips, eyeing everyone. “Alright, everyone, calm down.”

Leah, looking stunned and visibly heartbroken, crossed her arms and let out a deep sigh. “Calm down? Your daughter—who we’ve all practically raised at this club—is now playing for Chelsea, Katie. Chelsea!”

Y/N let out a small laugh, though it held a hint of nervousness. “Oh, believe me, we didn’t see this one coming, either. You think we’re happy about this?”

Beth groaned dramatically. “How could she do this to Leah? How could she do this to me? To all of Arsenal? And, uh, to you two, of course,” she added, glancing apologetically at Katie and Y/N.

Katie grumbled, crossing her arms with a huff. “Tell me about it. But we’ve got to support her, don’t we?”

The room erupted in laughter, though it was more out of disbelief than humor. Viv, shaking her head, muttered, “This is unreal. She grew up at that club. Arsenal is in her blood.”

Y/N sighed, shrugging helplessly. “We thought so, too. But she’s her own person, and she wanted to follow her own path.” She exchanged a look with Katie, who looked like she was fighting an internal battle of pride and frustration.

“Her own path at Chelsea,” Katie scoffed, though a small smile broke through as she shook her head. “A part of me can’t help but respect her for it.”

Leah threw her hands up in mock surrender. “Oh, don’t tell me you’re on board with this already!”

Katie chuckled, giving in. “No, no, of course not! I still can’t believe it. But we both know Ava’s always had a mind of her own.”

Y/N gave Katie a soft nudge. “She’s a McCabe—she was bound to do something this dramatic at some point.”

The entire locker room dissolved into laughter, with Katie shaking her head in defeat. “Alright, alright. I suppose she gets that from me.”

“Absolutely,” Leah said, wiping away a tear of laughter. “But you two better not show up in Chelsea blue any time soon, or I’m done.”

Katie threw her hands up in surrender. “Relax, Leah. We’re Arsenal through and through.” Then, leaning back with a smirk, she added, “Though, if you ask Ava, she might have other ideas.”

The room filled with laughter again, with the team gradually accepting that, while Ava’s decision was shocking, it wasn’t the end of the world. She’d always be their Ava, even if she wore the wrong colors. And though Katie and Y/N weren’t thrilled with her choice, they couldn’t help but feel a little proud of her fierce independence—even if it meant she was now the product of their greatest rival.

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The End

[millyh23]

If you did a part 2 would jana and still be together at the end

im not sure why don't u read it and find out here

[millyh23]

Bound By Love

Jana Fernandez x Reader

Word count: 7.5k

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Y/N was greeted by the warm, soft light of the Barcelona morning filtering through the blinds. She blinked awake, stretching slightly before realizing that Jana was still wrapped around her, her face nestled into Y/N's shoulder, breathing peacefully. A smile tugged at Y/N’s lips as she ran her fingers gently through Jana’s hair, savoring the quiet moment.

A few minutes later, Jana began to stir, lifting her head and giving Y/N a drowsy smile. “Buenos días,” she murmured, her voice still soft with sleep.

“Good morning, sleepyhead,” Y/N replied, brushing a loose strand of hair from Jana’s face. “I thought you’d never wake up. I might’ve had to eat breakfast without you.”

Jana gasped dramatically, pretending to look scandalized. “You wouldn’t dare! Who would make sure you don’t burn the toast?”

Y/N laughed, giving Jana a playful nudge. “I’d manage! Barely. But let’s just say the toast would be a little… extra crispy.”

They lingered in bed a little longer, chatting and laughing about nothing in particular, before finally heading to the kitchen. Y/N reached into the fridge for the ingredients to make pancakes, feeling Jana’s arms sneak around her waist from behind.

“You know,” Jana said, resting her chin on Y/N’s shoulder, “watching you cook is pretty cute.”

“Yeah?” Y/N grinned, flipping a pancake. “I’m not so sure about that. The last time I tried, you were the one who saved us from the smoke alarm, remember?”

“Maybe, but it’s cute that you try.” Jana planted a kiss on Y/N’s cheek before grabbing a plate to start setting up the table.

Once breakfast was ready, they sat together, sharing the pancakes and stealing bites off each other’s plates. The kitchen was filled with laughter and teasing over who could make the better pancake, though both of them secretly knew Jana was the reigning champ.

Later, they strolled through the local market, hands entwined as they browsed the stalls, picking out fresh fruits and chatting with the vendors. Every now and then, Y/N would catch Jana looking at her with that soft, adoring smile that made her feel like the luckiest person in the world.

At one of the flower stalls, Y/N suddenly stopped. “Stay here,” she said, letting go of Jana’s hand for a moment and selecting a small bouquet of yellow and white daisies. She handed them over with a playful wink. “For the most beautiful girl in Barcelona.”

Jana’s cheeks turned pink as she accepted the flowers. “Thank you,” she whispered, pulling Y/N in for a quick, gentle kiss.

When they returned to their apartment, Jana found a vase for the daisies while Y/N took out a sketchbook. She’d been practicing her drawing lately, inspired by all the colorful architecture and art around Barcelona. Sitting by the balcony, she began a sketch of the view, and after a moment, Jana came over, resting her head on Y/N’s shoulder and watching as she worked.

“You’re really getting good at this,” Jana murmured. “Maybe I should frame this one when you’re finished.”

Y/N chuckled, setting her pencil down. “It’s not that good yet, but maybe one day. I have the perfect muse, after all.”

Jana laughed, then tilted her head up to kiss Y/N, both of them wrapped in the simplicity of the moment. They spent the rest of the afternoon lounging on the balcony, sharing stories, watching the clouds drift by, and just basking in each other’s company.

As the sun began to set, they took one last stroll through the city before settling in for a cozy night at home. Curled up together on the couch, Y/N felt a deep sense of peace and happiness, knowing that every little moment—whether it was cooking pancakes or just watching the world go by—felt perfect as long as she had Jana by her side but was she being loved or suffocated.

Y/N had always prided herself on being resilient, especially since joining Barcelona and finding a place she could finally call home. But every now and then, the lingering doubts and insecurities from her past found their way back, like whispers she couldn’t ignore.

Today was one of those days. She’d been scrolling through social media earlier, catching sight of comments from Arsenal fans criticizing her transfer, questioning her loyalty, and downplaying her accomplishments since moving to Spain. Their words were biting and harsh, hitting her harder than she cared to admit.

As she walked into the living room, she took a deep breath, plastering on a smile as she saw Jana setting up a movie on the TV, all cozy with blankets and snacks. Jana looked up and beamed, patting the spot next to her on the couch. “I thought we could watch that new movie you’ve been talking about.”

Y/N nodded, forcing herself to focus on Jana’s excitement. “Sounds perfect.”

But even as they settled in, she felt a heaviness in her chest that was hard to shake. She rested her head on Jana’s shoulder, silently trying to calm her mind, but the negativity gnawed away. She felt like she didn’t deserve any of this—the love, the support, the fresh start in Barcelona. What if the people doubting her were right? What if she was just fooling herself, and it was only a matter of time before everyone here grew tired of her too?

“Hey, you okay?” Jana asked suddenly, breaking Y/N from her thoughts. She looked down, her brow creased with concern. “You’re quiet.”

Y/N blinked, her heart skipping a beat. “Oh, yeah. Just tired, I think. Training was intense today.” She offered a small smile, hoping it would be enough to ease Jana’s worry.

Jana seemed to accept her answer, though she still watched Y/N carefully. “Alright, but if there’s anything on your mind, you can talk to me, you know that, right?”

“Of course,” Y/N replied, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. She wanted to tell her—she really did—but the words just wouldn’t come. She hated feeling this vulnerable, especially with someone she cared about so deeply.

Throughout the movie, Y/N tried to immerse herself in the plot, but the insecurity loomed large, like a shadow she couldn’t shake. She could feel Jana glancing at her every so often, probably sensing her distraction. Y/N silently scolded herself. Jana deserved her full attention, not the doubts that threatened to consume her.

When the credits rolled, Jana turned to her. “Do you want to go for a walk? Clear our heads a bit?”

Y/N hesitated, knowing it was Jana’s gentle way of checking in. But she forced a bright smile, hoping it looked more genuine than it felt. “Actually, I think I might just turn in early tonight.”

Jana’s face softened with understanding. “Alright,” she said quietly, brushing a hand over Y/N’s cheek. “Just know I’m here whenever you want to talk, okay?”

“Yeah,” Y/N replied, trying to keep her voice steady. She placed a gentle kiss on Jana’s forehead before heading to the bedroom.

Once she was alone, she let out a sigh, sinking onto the bed. Her reflection stared back at her from the mirror on the opposite wall, and she felt an ache she couldn’t quite name. She thought she’d left all this behind—this fear of never being enough, of disappointing the people around her. But tonight, it felt as raw and present as ever.

As she lay in bed, Y/N closed her eyes, trying to push away the thoughts. She knew she couldn’t keep hiding this from Jana forever. But for now, she would. She didn’t want Jana to see her like this—unsure, vulnerable, and trapped in her own head. She would work through it alone, just as she always had.

The night was quiet, with only the soft hum of Barcelona beyond the apartment windows. But in Y/N’s dreams, things were anything but peaceful.

In her mind, she was back on a field—her old team’s voices echoing around her, harsh words spilling from fans she didn’t know, and her every attempt to kick the ball met with stumbling mistakes. She could feel their eyes on her, each look laced with disappointment and disdain. Her teammates, including Jana, were turning away, leaving her behind as she reached out, unable to find her voice.

She bolted awake, gasping as her surroundings came into focus. She was still in bed, the comforting warmth of blankets around her, but her heart was pounding, and her chest felt tight, each breath growing shallower than the last.

It took her a moment to realize that she was hyperventilating.

“Y/N?” Jana’s voice was gentle but filled with concern as she sat up, reaching for her. Her eyes widened as she took in Y/N’s state. “Hey, hey, it’s okay. Look at me.”

Y/N tried to ground herself, but the rush of anxiety was suffocating, her mind spiraling back to the images of disappointment and rejection from her nightmare. She couldn’t get air into her lungs, her hands shaking as she gripped the bedsheets.

Jana’s hands were warm and steady as they gently cupped Y/N’s face, tilting it so their eyes met. “Breathe with me, okay? Deep breaths, just like this,” she instructed, taking a slow, deep breath for Y/N to mirror.

Y/N tried to follow Jana’s steady rhythm, her breathing shaky at first but gradually slowing as Jana kept murmuring soft reassurances, her touch grounding and safe.

“That’s it, you’re doing great,” Jana whispered, her voice calm and full of love. She brushed a few stray strands of hair from Y/N’s forehead, her thumb tracing soothing circles along Y/N’s cheek. “You’re safe here. It was just a dream, okay?”

Y/N’s breathing finally evened out, though her heart was still racing. She felt a fresh wave of embarrassment wash over her as she realized she’d woken Jana with her panic. “I’m… I’m sorry,” she whispered, her voice hoarse.

“Hey, there’s nothing to be sorry about,” Jana replied, scooting closer until she was fully wrapping her arms around Y/N, holding her close. “You’re going through a lot. It’s okay to let it out.”

Y/N buried her face in Jana’s shoulder, letting herself lean into her warmth. For so long, she’d tried to keep her insecurities hidden, but in that moment, it felt like every wall she’d built around her fear was crumbling.

“It’s just…” She took a shuddering breath. “Sometimes I feel like… like I’m not enough. That everyone’s going to realize I’m just… a disappointment.”

Jana pulled back slightly, just enough to look Y/N in the eyes, her gaze full of understanding and tenderness. “Y/N, you’re not a disappointment. Not to me, not to the team, and certainly not to anyone who knows the real you.”

Y/N managed a shaky nod, but her throat still felt tight. “I just… I’m scared. I don’t want to let anyone down, especially you.”

Jana’s expression softened even further as she leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to Y/N’s forehead. “You could never let me down, cariño. You’re strong, and you’re talented, and you deserve to be happy and loved just as you are.”

She hugged Y/N close, whispering comforting words, each one like a balm to Y/N’s frayed nerves. Gradually, Y/N felt her muscles relax, her breathing steady as the remnants of her panic faded in Jana’s embrace.

They stayed like that for a long while, with Jana holding Y/N and rubbing her back until she could feel Y/N finally begin to settle. The once-tense silence was replaced by the soft sounds of their breaths, now calm and even, filling the stillness of the night.

When Y/N was ready, Jana pulled her gently back to bed, never letting go of her hand as they lay down together. Y/N felt a peace she hadn’t known in a long time, her head resting against Jana’s shoulder, feeling the steady beat of Jana’s heart.

“Thank you,” she whispered, feeling the weight of her gratitude, knowing she wasn’t alone in facing these fears.

“Always,” Jana whispered back, brushing a kiss over Y/N’s hair. “We’re in this together, no matter what.”

Y/N tried to shake the creeping unease that had settled in the pit of her stomach. Training had been rough today—one missed shot, one fumbled pass, and suddenly, she was convinced everyone was watching, waiting for her next mistake. She could feel her confidence wavering, her doubts coming back louder than ever.

When she got home, Jana was already there, she got to leave before the media team grabbed her for some tiktoks, cooking dinner with music playing softly in the background. As soon as Jana saw Y/N, her face softened with concern.

“Hey, love,” she greeted, setting down a wooden spoon to give Y/N a warm hug. “Long day?”

Y/N hesitated, trying to put on a brave face. “Yeah, just… one of those days, I guess.”

But Jana could tell that something was weighing on her. She took Y/N’s hand and led her to the couch, sitting down beside her and pulling her close. “What’s really going on?” Jana asked, her voice calm and gentle.

Y/N sighed, the words tumbling out before she could stop them. “I just… I feel like I can’t get it right. Like I’m going to mess things up, and everyone will realize I don’t belong here.”

Jana listened patiently, her eyes never leaving Y/N’s. When Y/N finished, she didn’t say anything at first, just gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. “You’re not alone in feeling like this,” Jana said after a moment, her tone soft but full of conviction. “And I get it. It’s hard, carrying these doubts. But you know what? You’re one of the most talented, driven people I know.”

Y/N offered a small smile but still looked unconvinced. Jana didn’t push, instead shifting closer, keeping her hand on Y/N’s as she spoke.

“I know what it’s like to feel the pressure and to think that every little mistake means the end of everything,” Jana continued, her thumb rubbing gentle circles over Y/N’s hand. “But you don’t have to be perfect to be worthy. You’ve earned your place here, on this team, in my life, in everything.”

Y/N let out a shaky breath, her eyes drifting to their joined hands. “I just… sometimes, I feel like people are just waiting for me to fail.”

Jana nodded, her gaze thoughtful. “Maybe some people are. But those people don’t matter, Y/N. They don’t see you the way I do, or the way your real friends and teammates do.” She paused, making sure Y/N was following her. “Do you want to know what I see when I look at you?”

Y/N’s heart skipped a beat, her voice barely above a whisper. “What?”

Jana’s eyes softened, filled with a warmth that made Y/N’s heart ache. “I see someone who’s resilient, someone who doesn’t give up even when things get tough. I see someone who makes everyone around them better. I see the woman I’m lucky to love every single day.”

Y/N felt the tension in her chest loosen, a sense of relief washing over her. Jana’s words weren’t just comforting; they were real, genuine, and full of belief in her.

“But I know it’s hard to silence those voices in your head,” Jana added, leaning forward and pressing a soft kiss to Y/N’s forehead. “So whenever you feel them creeping back, just remember: I’m here, and I believe in you. And maybe… maybe it’s time to start believing in yourself, too.”

Y/N nodded, feeling a surge of warmth and confidence. Jana’s presence grounded her, reminding her of what truly mattered. She knew the journey wouldn’t be easy, but with Jana by her side, she felt like she could face her fears head-on.

As they sat there in comfortable silence, Jana looked at her with a soft smile. “Tomorrow, let’s go back to the basics. You and me, one-on-one training. Not because you need it, but because I want you to feel the joy of it again—the part of football that’s just about you and the ball, not about anyone else’s expectations.”

A smile finally broke through Y/N’s serious expression. “That sounds perfect.”

Jana kissed her hand. “Good. Because you deserve to feel proud of yourself. I’m proud of you, and I always will be.”

Y/N was accustomed to keeping her guard up, to relying on herself and offering her love carefully. But when it came to accepting love in return, that was a different story. Every time Jana showered her with warmth—whether through a simple compliment, a thoughtful gesture, or even something as small as a soft look—it stirred something complicated within her, like she was waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Tonight was no different. They’d just finished dinner, a quiet evening spent together. As they cleared the dishes, Y/N felt a warmth on her shoulder and turned to see Jana’s hand resting there, her expression soft and inviting.

“You know,” Jana began, her voice light, “sometimes I think you don’t fully believe me when I tell you how much I love you.”

Y/N’s breath caught. She tried to brush it off with a smile, but Jana’s gaze was steady, and Y/N could feel her walls wavering. “I… I know you love me,” Y/N replied, her voice uncertain.

Jana nodded, her eyes understanding. “But I don’t think you believe that you deserve it,” she said gently.

Y/N looked away, feeling exposed. “It’s not that I don’t want to believe you,” she admitted. “It’s just… sometimes it feels too good to be true. Like maybe if I let myself believe it, it’ll slip away.”

Jana’s grip on her shoulder tightened, reassuring. “Love isn’t something you have to earn or prove you’re worthy of, Y/N,” she said. “It’s something I give you because I want to, because I see you for who you really are and I love every part of that.”

Y/N’s gaze softened, but the self-doubt lingered in her expression. Jana noticed and took her hands, guiding her to the couch, where they both sat in the quiet comfort of their shared space.

“Think about all the times you’ve been there for me,” Jana continued, her voice gentle and grounding. “The times you’ve given me love and support without me ever having to ask for it. I didn’t question it because I know your love is real, and that’s how I want you to feel about mine.”

Y/N let out a shaky breath, looking down at their intertwined hands. “It’s just hard to feel… enough,” she admitted, barely above a whisper.

Jana moved closer, reaching out to tuck a strand of hair behind Y/N’s ear. “You are enough,” she said, each word steady and full of conviction. “You’re more than enough, and I’m so lucky to love you. And I’m even luckier that you’re here, willing to be with me, too.”

A small smile crept onto Y/N’s face, and she felt her resistance melting away. Jana was patient, warm, her presence like a steady flame that refused to falter. “It’s not just about letting me love you, Y/N,” Jana continued, her voice barely above a whisper. “It’s about letting yourself see what I see.”

Y/N felt the emotion swell in her chest, her heart pounding as she allowed herself to truly take in Jana’s words. “And what do you see?” she asked, her voice vulnerable, almost childlike.

Jana’s eyes softened as she spoke, her hand gently brushing Y/N’s cheek. “I see someone brave, who doesn’t let fear stop her from going after her dreams. Someone who cares deeply, even when she tries to hide it. I see someone who’s strong and kind, who’s been through so much but keeps going.”

Y/N blinked, feeling her throat tighten with emotion. She realized she wanted to believe Jana, to let herself lean into the love offered to her.

Seeing her hesitation, Jana leaned closer, pressing a soft kiss to Y/N’s forehead. “Just… let me love you, Y/N. No conditions, no expectations. Just as you are.”

For the first time, Y/N didn’t argue or try to hide. She let herself lean into Jana’s touch, feeling her walls come down one brick at a time. As they sat there, Y/N felt an unfamiliar but comforting warmth settle over her, a feeling that whispered she was safe, she was enough, and she was loved.

And this time, she let herself believe it.

Two years had flown by since Y/N and Jana first became something more. Y/N could still remember the nerves, the initial barriers, the slow process of letting herself be loved. But now, after countless memories, adventures, and quiet mornings together, she couldn’t imagine her life without Jana. It wasn’t just that she loved her; it was that she wanted to love her forever.

The realization hit Y/N one quiet afternoon. Jana had been laughing at something on her phone, sprawled out on the couch in her favorite hoodie, her hair loosely tied back. Y/N watched her with a fond smile, feeling warmth bloom in her chest. Suddenly, she knew. She wanted to propose.

As Jana headed out to training later that evening, Y/N got to work, her mind whirling with possibilities. She wanted to make it perfect. But how? Jana deserved something meaningful, something that spoke to their journey and all they’d built together. She pulled out her notebook, jotting down a few ideas.

1. A quiet, intimate proposal: Just the two of them in their favorite spot by the coast. They’d often take weekend trips to the seaside, a place where they could escape the noise and simply be together. Y/N imagined them sitting on the sandy shore, the waves crashing softly in the background as she got down on one knee.

2. A football-themed proposal: Football was something that had brought them together. Maybe she could plan something on the field, but after hours, when it was just the two of them under the stadium lights. Y/N could already picture Jana’s face, laughing and surprised, realizing that this was not just another training session.

3. A surprise with friends and family: Jana’s friends and family were incredibly important to her. Y/N knew how much Jana loved sharing her joy with those she cared about. Maybe she could organize a small get-together disguised as a regular gathering, only to turn it into the moment where she asked Jana to be hers forever.

But as she wrote each idea, she found herself going back to the first. There was something beautifully personal about it, just them and the world around them, with no expectations or pressures. It felt like their entire relationship wrapped up in one simple, perfect moment.

Over the next few weeks, Y/N carefully crafted her plan. She picked a weekend when they both had time off and quietly reserved a cabin by the coast, somewhere secluded but scenic. She spent evenings writing down her thoughts and rehearsing what she’d say, though every time she tried to practice, she ended up flustered, laughing at herself in the mirror. Somehow, she knew she’d end up just speaking from the heart when the moment came.

And then, there was the ring.

Y/N wanted it to be special. She found a jeweler who custom-designed rings, and together, they crafted a simple but elegant band, with a subtle engraving on the inside: "Siempre, mi amor"—"Forever, my love."

The ring was beautiful, and holding it in her hands, she felt the weight of what it symbolized: a lifetime of love, laughter, support, and growth. She could already picture sliding it onto Jana’s finger, the look of surprise and joy in her eyes, the moment they’d share that would mark the beginning of a new chapter.

Finally, the weekend arrived, and Y/N could hardly contain her excitement. She had packed their bags, planned the perfect dinner, and slipped the ring box into her coat pocket, hoping Jana wouldn’t notice.

As they drove along the coast, with the sun dipping low and casting warm hues over the ocean, Jana reached over, giving Y/N’s hand a squeeze, her face soft and happy. Y/N felt her nerves settle, a smile breaking across her face. She was ready—more than ready—to ask Jana to spend forever with her.

And as they arrived at the cabin, with the sound of the waves just beyond, Y/N knew that the moment she’d been waiting for was finally here.

The sunset over the coast was breathtaking, casting golden hues across the waves as they broke against the shore. The cabin was tucked away just a short walk from the beach, and as soon as they’d arrived, Y/N suggested a stroll along the sand before dinner. She could feel the ring box resting in her coat pocket, its weight both thrilling and grounding.

Jana seemed relaxed, happily taking Y/N’s hand as they walked toward the shoreline. They walked in comfortable silence, with only the sound of the waves and the calls of distant seabirds. Y/N glanced over at Jana, her heart swelling as she watched her take in the scene, looking utterly content.

“Do you remember the first time we came here?” Y/N asked softly, stopping to take in the view.

Jana nodded, a small smile playing at her lips. “Of course. I’d never seen you so at peace before,” she replied. “It was the first time I really felt how much you trusted me.”

Y/N’s heart stuttered at her words, the reminder of how far they’d come. “I think… it was the first time I let myself trust anyone,” she admitted. “You’ve given me more than I ever knew I needed.”

Jana turned to her, her brows knitting slightly, sensing the weight in Y/N’s voice. “Is everything okay?” she asked gently.

Y/N took a breath, her hand slipping into her pocket to feel the ring box. Her heart was pounding, and she knew there was no perfect moment beyond this one. With a small smile, she nodded.

“More than okay,” she whispered. And before she could overthink it, she slowly lowered herself onto one knee in the soft sand, pulling the ring box out and holding it up toward Jana.

The expression on Jana’s face was one Y/N would never forget—a mixture of surprise, joy, and a love so pure it nearly took her breath away.

“Jana,” Y/N began, her voice thick with emotion, “you taught me to love myself, to trust, to open my heart when I didn’t think I could. You’ve given me laughter and comfort, and there’s no one I’d rather face life with. I want to be by your side, through all of it. Forever. Will you marry me?”

Tears welled in Jana’s eyes as she looked down at Y/N, her lips curving into a smile as she whispered, “Yes, Y/N. A thousand times, yes.”

Y/N’s heart soared as she slipped the ring onto Jana’s finger, feeling a rush of happiness as she stood, only for Jana to pull her into a deep, heartfelt embrace. They stayed there, holding each other close, swaying slightly in the sand as the sun continued its slow descent.

After a long moment, Jana pulled back slightly, looking at the ring, her fingers tracing it with reverence. “I love it,” she murmured, meeting Y/N’s gaze. “And I love you.”

“I love you too,” Y/N replied, her voice barely a whisper as she leaned in, capturing Jana’s lips in a soft kiss.

The world around them faded away, leaving only the two of them standing by the shore, two hearts joined in a promise of forever.

Excitement buzzed between Y/N and Jana as they walked into the Barcelona training facility the morning after their engagement. They’d spent most of the night talking, still a little in awe of what had just happened. Now, they were ready to share the news with the people they loved.

Y/N gave Jana a sideways smile as they stepped into the locker room. “Ready to drop the bombshell?”

Jana grinned, squeezing Y/N’s hand before they split up to join their teammates. “Let’s see how long it takes them to figure it out.”

The morning training session was like any other—or at least, that’s what everyone else thought. Y/N couldn’t help the smile that kept creeping onto her face, and she caught Jana beaming at her from across the field more than once.

It wasn’t long before their friends started to notice something was up.

Bruna, always the observant one, jogged over during a break, her eyes narrowing playfully. “Okay, what’s going on with you two? I don’t think I’ve seen either of you stop smiling all morning.”

Jana tried to look innocent, shrugging. “Can’t a girl just be happy?”

Bruna raised an eyebrow. “You’re practically glowing. Both of you are.”

Y/N exchanged a quick look with Jana, her heart racing as she pulled off her gloves, revealing the subtle but beautiful ring glinting on her finger. She held her hand up casually, watching Bruna’s face as realization dawned.

“Oh my god!” Bruna’s eyes went wide, and she let out a shout of excitement that immediately drew the attention of the rest of the team. “You’re engaged?!”

By now, all of their teammates were gathering around, eyes wide with curiosity and excitement. Jana held up her own hand, showing the matching ring on her finger, and the locker room erupted in cheers, laughter, and squeals of excitement.

“Oh, you two are perfect together!” Mapi exclaimed, pulling them both into a tight hug. “Finally, someone made a good decision!”

Patri shook her head in disbelief, hugging Y/N tightly. “You kept it a secret for a whole day? How did you manage that?”

“It was hard,” Y/N admitted with a laugh, glancing over at Jana. “But we wanted to surprise you.”

In true team fashion, the celebrations continued well into their break, with their teammates insisting on hearing every detail about how Y/N proposed, where it happened, and exactly how many times Jana had cried. Laughter filled the room as Jana recounted the proposal, her cheeks turning pink as she tried to give Y/N a playful glare every time she shared one of the sappier details.

Finally, Alexia called for a group picture, gathering everyone around Y/N and Jana. They stood arm-in-arm, their teammates cheering and throwing their arms around them. In the photo, Y/N and Jana stood in the middle, holding each other close, both of them smiling as if they couldn’t quite believe this was real.

As they headed back to the field, Y/N looked around at her teammates, each one congratulating them with hugs and kind words. It felt like she and Jana weren’t just building a future together, but that they had the support and love of everyone around them too.

As the session wrapped up, Y/N caught Jana’s hand, leaning in to whisper, “Looks like our family just got a little bit bigger.”

Jana smiled back, her eyes shining with love. “And I couldn’t be happier.”

A few weeks after their engagement, Y/N and Jana found themselves sitting at a cozy café with wedding magazines scattered around their table, notepads filled with ideas, and a checklist that seemed to grow by the minute. They’d spent hours talking about their vision for the wedding: a celebration of love and friendship with their closest family and friends, somewhere beautiful yet intimate.

Jana leaned forward, flipping through one of the magazines and pausing at a picture of a rustic, coastal venue. “Imagine getting married by the sea,” she murmured dreamily, her fingers tracing the photo.

Y/N smiled, reaching across the table to take her hand. “Wherever it is, it’ll be perfect. As long as you’re there.”

Jana chuckled, squeezing her hand. “Sappy already. You’re getting an early start.”

They laughed, flipping through more pages and discussing color schemes, flower arrangements, and their favorite foods to serve. But there was one thing they both agreed on from the start: they wanted their friends by their sides, especially the ones who’d been part of their journey.

Later that week, after training, they gathered a small group of their closest teammates in the locker room, hearts racing with excitement. Jana looked around, grinning as she started, “So… we have something to ask you all.”

The teammates—Alexia, Mapi, Patri, and Bruna—looked at each other, curious expressions on their faces. Y/N took a breath, meeting Jana’s gaze for a moment before turning back to their friends.

“We’d be so honored if each of you would stand with us as bridesmaids at our wedding,” Y/N said, her voice warm and genuine. “You’ve all been there for us through so much, and it wouldn’t feel right without you by our sides.”

For a moment, there was silence as their friends processed what they’d just asked. Then, all at once, excitement erupted.

“Oh my god, yes!” Mapi practically shouted, pulling both Y/N and Jana into a bear hug. “You’re not getting rid of us now!”

“Are you kidding? I would be honored!” Patri said, her eyes shining as she hugged Jana tightly. “Thank you for including us.”

Bruna beamed, looking genuinely touched. “This is going to be beautiful. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

Alexia, ever the sentimental one, pulled them both in for a quiet hug, smiling softly. “I’ll be there, every step of the way. It’s an honor, really.”

The rest of the evening was filled with laughter, ideas, and plans as they all talked about dresses, music, and their own hopes for the wedding. Each of the soon-to-be bridesmaids shared their ideas for everything from the bachelorette party to the types of flowers they’d love to see, and Y/N couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude. This was her family, a group that had seen her through thick and thin, and now they’d stand beside her on one of the most important days of her life.

As the night wound down, Y/N looked over at Jana, her heart swelling as she took in the sight of her fiancée laughing and chatting with their closest friends.

This wasn’t just about the wedding—it was about the life they were building together, surrounded by people who loved and supported them both. And for Y/N, it was more than she’d ever dreamed of.

The sun peeked through the trees, casting a warm glow over the seaside venue where Y/N and Jana’s wedding was set to take place. The air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the soft sound of waves crashing against the shore. It was the perfect day for a celebration, and everything felt magical.

Inside the venue, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement. Y/N stood in front of a large mirror, her heart racing as she took in her reflection. The white suit tailored beautifully, delicate embroidery with lilac details shimmering in the soft light. She felt beautiful, but more importantly, she felt ready to commit her life to the woman she loved.

As she turned to her bridesmaids, a smile broke out on her face. “Can you believe this day is finally here?”

Mapi, in her lilac dress, nodded enthusiastically. “We’ve been waiting for this! You two are going to be incredible together.”

Alexia was busy adjusting Y/N’s tie, laughing and teasing her in the process. “Just remember to breathe,” Mapi said, her own excitement evident. “You’ve got this!”

Meanwhile, Jana was in a nearby room, surrounded by her own bridesmaids. The atmosphere was equally filled with joy and anticipation. She wore a stunning dress that hugged her figure perfectly, her smile radiant as she reflected on everything that had led to this moment.

“I can’t believe we’re finally doing this!” Jana exclaimed, looking at her reflection. “I’m about to marry my best friend.”

“Just remember, when you see Y/N, you’re going to lose it,” Bruna teased, giving Jana a playful nudge. “Make sure to keep it together!”

As the ceremony approached, Y/N’s nerves began to kick in. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, envisioning the moment she’d finally say “I do.”

When it was time, the bridesmaids walked down the aisle, each of them looking stunning and filled with joy. Finally, it was Jana’s turn. The music shifted, and she took her first step, the world around her fading away as she focused on the love of her life standing at the altar.

Y/N's eyes lit up the moment she spotted Jana, her breath hitching at the sight of her. It was as if time stood still, and all her worries melted away. With every step Jana took, a smile crept onto her face, and her heart swelled with love.

As Jana reached the altar, they exchanged soft smiles, an unspoken understanding passing between them. The officiant began the ceremony, and Y/N could hardly pay attention to the words, lost in the depth of Jana’s gaze.

They shared personal vows, each pouring their heart out in front of family and friends. Y/N’s voice trembled with emotion as she spoke about their journey, the struggles they’d faced, and the unwavering love that had brought them to this moment.

“I promise to always support you, to encourage you, and to love you fiercely, no matter what life throws our way,” Y/N vowed, her eyes shining with tears of joy.

Jana reciprocated with equal passion. “You’ve taught me so much about love and acceptance. I promise to always be by your side, to cherish every moment we share, and to grow together through everything life brings us.”

When they exchanged rings, it felt like the world had fallen away, leaving only the two of them in that moment. The officiant pronounced them married, and they leaned in for a kiss, sealing their vows with laughter and tears of happiness. The crowd erupted in applause and cheers, and it was as if the world had exploded into colors and joy.

After the ceremony, the reception was filled with laughter, heartfelt speeches, and dancing. Their friends celebrated their love, and the atmosphere was electric with happiness. Y/N and Jana shared their first dance as a married couple, the world around them fading as they focused only on each other.

As they swayed to the music, Y/N whispered, “I can’t believe we made it.”

Jana smiled, her eyes glistening with joy. “We did, and it’s just the beginning.”

The night continued with dancing, laughter, and endless celebrations. Y/N felt like she was living in a dream, surrounded by love and joy. As she looked around at the people who had supported them throughout their journey, she realized just how lucky they were to have each other and their amazing friends.

Later in the evening, Y/N and Jana took a moment to step outside, the cool breeze brushing against their skin as they looked out at the ocean.

“Look at us,” Y/N said, wrapping her arms around Jana’s waist. “Married.”

Jana chuckled softly, leaning her head against Y/N’s shoulder. “I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Underneath the stars, surrounded by the sounds of waves and distant laughter, they shared a gentle kiss, knowing that this was only the beginning of their beautiful journey together.

The sound of waves gently lapping against the shore filled the air as Y/N and Jana stepped onto the sandy beach, hand in hand. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden hue over everything and creating a picturesque scene. They had chosen a secluded island for their honeymoon, a place that felt like paradise, where they could bask in the warmth of their love without a care in the world.

As they walked along the shoreline, the soft sand beneath their feet, Y/N turned to Jana with a playful smile. “Can you believe we’re finally here? Married and on our honeymoon?”

Jana’s face lit up, her eyes sparkling with joy. “It feels like a dream, doesn’t it? I still can’t believe how perfect the wedding was. And now… this.” She gestured to the breathtaking view around them.

They stopped for a moment, the sun setting behind them, and Y/N pulled Jana into a tight embrace. “I’m so grateful to be sharing this with you. You make every moment feel special.”

Jana snuggled closer, resting her head against Y/N’s shoulder. “And you make me feel loved, every single day.”

After a leisurely stroll, they settled on a cozy beach blanket, surrounded by fluffy pillows and a small picnic basket filled with their favorite snacks and a bottle of champagne. Jana uncorked the bottle, the sound echoing in the stillness of the evening, and poured them both a glass.

“To us,” Jana said, raising her glass with a smile that made Y/N’s heart flutter. “To our love, our adventure, and a lifetime of happiness together.”

Y/N clinked her glass against Jana’s, her heart swelling with emotion. “To us,” she echoed, savoring the moment.

They sipped their champagne, laughing and chatting about everything and nothing at all. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange, Y/N felt a sense of peace wash over her. It was as if the world had faded away, leaving just the two of them in their own little paradise.

After finishing their snacks, Jana leaned back on the blanket, her fingers tracing shapes in the sand. “You know, I can’t believe we’ve come so far,” she said softly. “From friends to lovers to… this.”

Y/N lay beside her, propping herself up on one elbow to gaze into Jana’s eyes. “I’ve loved every moment of our journey. You’ve made me a better person, Jana.”

Jana smiled, her cheeks flushing. “You’re perfect just the way you are, Y/N. I fell in love with you for all the reasons you doubt yourself. You’re strong, kind, and so talented.”

Y/N felt her heart swell at Jana’s words. “I just… I can’t help but feel lucky. I get to spend my life with you.”

As night fell, they lay together on the blanket, the stars twinkling above them. Y/N pointed up at the sky, excitement in her voice. “Look at all those stars! It’s like a blanket of diamonds.”

Jana chuckled, glancing up. “You know, I read somewhere that the best time to make a wish is when you see a shooting star.”

“Then let’s make wishes!” Y/N exclaimed, closing her eyes tightly. “I wish for endless happiness with you.”

Jana smiled, squeezing Y/N’s hand. “I wish for every dream we’ve ever had to come true.”

The two of them lay in silence for a moment, basking in the comfort of each other’s presence. The soft sounds of the waves created a soothing background, making Y/N feel as if they were the only two people in the world.

Eventually, Y/N turned to face Jana, her expression serious yet soft. “Jana, I want you to know how much you mean to me. You’re my everything, and I promise to love you fiercely every day for the rest of our lives.”

Jana’s eyes glistened with tears of happiness. “You have no idea how much that means to me, Y/N. I feel so blessed to have you in my life. You make me feel alive.”

With a gentle hand, Y/N brushed a strand of hair behind Jana’s ear, her touch tender. “I will always cherish you, always support you, and always be your biggest fan.”

Jana leaned forward, capturing Y/N’s lips in a sweet kiss, their hearts entwined in that moment. It was slow and tender, a promise of forever sealed between them. As they pulled away, they rested their foreheads against each other, their breaths mingling in the warm evening air.

“Let’s make this honeymoon unforgettable,” Jana suggested, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Y/N laughed, intrigued. “What do you have in mind?”

Jana grinned, her excitement infectious. “How about a midnight swim? Just you and me, under the stars.”

“Sounds perfect,” Y/N agreed, her heart racing at the thought of sharing such a magical experience.

They stood up, hand in hand, and made their way toward the water. The moonlight danced on the waves, creating a shimmering pathway as they entered the cool ocean. The water embraced them, and they laughed, splashing each other playfully, feeling the exhilaration of being alive and in love.

As they swam, Y/N pulled Jana closer, their laughter echoing across the water. The connection they shared felt stronger than ever, solidifying their bond as they splashed and twirled in the waves.

After what felt like hours, they finally emerged from the water, breathless and full of joy. They wrapped themselves in soft towels, the night air warm against their skin.

As they lay back on the beach, gazing up at the stars once more, Y/N turned to Jana, her heart full. “I can’t wait to create a lifetime of memories with you.”

Jana’s smile was radiant. “With you, every moment is an adventure. I love you, Y/N.”

“I love you too, Jana,” Y/N replied, her voice soft yet filled with conviction.

And as the waves continued to roll in, carrying their laughter into the night, they knew this was just the beginning of their beautiful journey together.

Bound by love, bound for life.

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The End

[millyh23]

I absolutely love bound by trust wow do u plan on doing a part 2 of it cause It was absolutely brilliant fantastic writing love the drama and everything else was just perfect

Glad you like it part 2 should be out next week

[millyh23]

Bound By Trust

word count: 11.9k

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Y/N stood at the centre of the pitch, the sun setting behind the Emirates Stadium casting a warm, golden hue over the grass. Training had just wrapped up, and most of the team was heading back to the locker rooms, laughing and chatting about their plans for the evening. But Y/N lingered, stretching her legs as she replayed the day’s drills in her mind, the passing patterns, the defensive shape—everything that made Arsenal such a well-oiled machine.

As she bent down to tie her laces tighter, she heard footsteps approaching. She didn’t need to look up to know who it was. Leah Williamson’s presence was always familiar, a quiet confidence that seemed to wrap around the team like a safety net.

“You’re pushing yourself harder than usual today,” Leah said, her voice gentle but with an undertone of concern.

Y/N straightened up and turned to her, shrugging lightly. “Just trying to get better.”

Leah raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms as she stood next to Y/N. “You’re already good enough. That’s why you’re here.”

Y/N smiled but didn’t respond, shifting her gaze back to the now-empty field. She had always been hard on herself, always feeling like she needed to prove she belonged at a club as prestigious as Arsenal. The standards were high, and even though she knew she had the talent, there was always a nagging doubt at the back of her mind.

“I’ve noticed something,” Leah continued after a moment of silence. “You don’t trust yourself on the ball as much as you should.”

Y/N glanced at her, frowning slightly. “What do you mean?”

Leah sighed, stepping closer so they were facing each other. “You hesitate. When you’ve got the ball and space in front of you, you hesitate just for a split second. It’s like you’re second-guessing your instincts.”

Y/N opened her mouth to protest, but Leah cut her off with a knowing look.

“I know you,” Leah said softly. “You’re smart, and you’ve got great vision on the pitch. But if you don’t trust yourself, you’re going to hold back, and that’s going to affect the whole team. We need to know that you’re confident out there. That we can trust you.”

Y/N swallowed, her throat tightening. Trust. It was such a simple word, but it carried so much weight. She had always been the type to put immense pressure on herself, to not let anyone down. But maybe, in doing so, she was forgetting the most important part—that the team trusted her, and she needed to trust herself too.

“I’ve been working on it,” Y/N admitted quietly, her eyes dropping to the ground. “But sometimes it feels like I’m not enough.”

Leah’s expression softened, and she reached out, placing a hand on Y/N’s shoulder. “You are enough. You wouldn’t be here if you weren’t.”

The sincerity in Leah’s words sent a wave of warmth through Y/N. She had always admired Leah’s leadership, the way she could read the game and her teammates like a book. And in that moment, Y/N realized that Leah’s trust wasn’t just a given—it was earned, and it was genuine.

“Thanks, Leah,” Y/N murmured, feeling the weight in her chest ease just a little.

Leah gave her a small smile, squeezing her shoulder before stepping back. “We’re all bound by trust on this team. We have to be. Otherwise, none of this works. And you’re a part of that, Y/N. So trust yourself as much as we trust you, alright?”

Y/N nodded, a new sense of determination settling within her. She knew it wouldn’t be an overnight change, but she could start small. Trust herself with every touch, every pass, every decision. It was the only way forward.

As the two of them walked off the pitch together, the stadium lights flickered on, illuminating the path ahead. Y/N felt lighter somehow, the pressure she’d placed on herself fading in the presence of something stronger—trust. The kind that wasn’t just given but built over time, through sweat, grit, and shared goals. It was what made Arsenal more than just a club. It made them a team.

And Y/N was ready to live up to that trust, bound by it in every way.

The hum of the crowd filled Y/N’s ears as she stood in the tunnel, heart pounding in anticipation. Today was the day. A crucial league match, with Arsenal needing three points to maintain their title race. After weeks of hard work, she had started to trust herself on the pitch. Leah’s words had sunk in deep, and her confidence was growing, game by game.

She could feel it during training, during drills, and in every touch of the ball. It wasn’t perfect, but the hesitation that once plagued her was beginning to fade. She was making quicker decisions, pushing forward with more certainty, trusting her instincts. The team noticed it too, and there was an unspoken understanding between them now—a bond forged by trust.

As the whistle blew and they stepped onto the pitch, Y/N took a deep breath, rolling her shoulders to shake off the nerves. The Emirates Stadium was packed, fans chanting, banners waving. This was her stage, and she was ready to play her part.

The first few minutes of the match went by in a blur of energy and movement. Arsenal controlled possession, and Y/N, stationed in her usual role on the wing, felt alive. She darted in and out of pockets of space, always aware of her surroundings, always thinking two steps ahead. Her first few touches were crisp, and when she drove forward, she did it without hesitation, pushing the ball past defenders with newfound confidence.

But then came the 30th minute.

A sloppy pass from the midfield found Y/N in an awkward position. The ball came at her too quickly, and her first touch was heavy. She chased it, but the opposing defender was faster, sweeping the ball away with ease and launching a counterattack.

The groan from the crowd hit her ears like a wave, but Y/N shook it off. Mistakes happened. She just needed to recover.

Except, they kept happening.

Five minutes later, she found herself in space on the edge of the box. Leah played a perfect ball through, setting Y/N up for a chance to score. All she needed to do was shoot. But the hesitation she had worked so hard to shake off crept back in at the worst moment. Instead of firing, she took an extra touch, allowing the defender to close her down, and her eventual shot was blocked.

Another groan from the crowd. Louder this time.

Y/N clenched her fists, her mind racing. Focus. Get it together.

But the game seemed to spiral out of control after that. Passes she usually nailed were going astray, her positioning felt off, and she couldn’t seem to get her rhythm back. It was as if all the progress she had made in trusting herself was unraveling before her eyes.

Then, in the 60th minute, disaster struck.

Arsenal were pushing forward, trying to break down the opposition’s defense. Y/N received the ball deep in her own half with pressure mounting. The opposing forward was closing her down fast, but instead of playing the safe pass back to the keeper, she tried to dribble her way out.

It was a mistake.

She lost the ball in a dangerous area, and within seconds, the opposition capitalized, scoring on the break.

The stadium fell into a stunned silence for a moment, and then the boos started. Low at first, then rising to a deafening roar as the frustration from the fans became tangible. Y/N stood frozen, staring at the scoreboard as the opposition celebrated.

Her heart dropped into her stomach. She could feel her teammates' eyes on her, but no one said anything. The boos continued to rain down, sharp and relentless. She had never heard anything like it before, not directed at her. It was suffocating, crushing her from the inside out.

Leah was the first to come over, placing a hand on Y/N’s shoulder, but the words she said didn’t register. Y/N couldn’t hear anything over the sound of the crowd, the disappointment echoing in her mind. Every cheer from the opposition fans felt like another knife twisting in her gut.

When the final whistle blew, Arsenal had lost 2-0. And Y/N, the player who had spent weeks clawing her way toward trusting herself, walked off the pitch with her head down, drowning in shame.

The locker room was deathly quiet. The team sat in silence, the tension heavy in the air. No one wanted to talk, especially not Y/N. She sat in front of her locker, staring at the floor, replaying every mistake over and over again in her mind.

She could still hear the boos ringing in her ears. She’d never been booed before—never been the one fans turned their backs on. But today, she had been.

Leah sat beside her, not saying a word, but her presence was steady, like an anchor Y/N didn’t feel she deserved.

“I messed up,” Y/N whispered, breaking the silence.

Leah exhaled softly, tilting her head to look at her. “It wasn’t just on you. We all had a bad game.”

Y/N shook her head, frustration bubbling up inside her. “No, I cost us the game. I froze. I… I didn’t trust myself out there.”

Leah frowned, her gaze soft but serious. “One bad game doesn’t erase everything you’ve worked for. You’ve come a long way, Y/N. Don’t let today be the end of that progress.”

Y/N wanted to believe her, but the weight of the boos, the mistakes, the disappointment—it all felt like too much. Trusting herself had been hard enough. Now, it felt impossible.

“I don’t know if I can bounce back from this,” Y/N admitted quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Leah leaned in, her voice steady and sure. “You can. Because we trust you. That hasn’t changed.”

Y/N didn’t respond, unsure of whether to believe her. The road to trusting herself had been rocky, and now, after a game like this, it felt like she was back at square one.

But Leah didn’t leave her side. And maybe that was the first step—trusting that even when everything fell apart, her teammates would be there to pick her back up.

Y/N jogged onto the training pitch, the cool morning air biting at her skin. It had been a few days since the disastrous match that left her confidence in tatters. The boos from the crowd still echoed in her mind, replaying whenever she found herself in a moment of stillness. But she’d promised herself she wouldn’t let that one game define her.

Today was a fresh start, a chance to rebuild.

As warm-ups began, Y/N fell into the rhythm of the routine. Simple passing drills, weaving between cones, sprinting back and forth. Everything was familiar. She kept her focus, pushing away the doubt, reminding herself that she was good enough to be here. Leah’s words—we trust you—echoed in her head.

But as training progressed, something felt off. Something small, subtle. Y/N couldn’t quite put her finger on it at first, but a creeping sense of unease began to settle in her chest.

It started with the passing drills.

Normally, she was involved in the tight passing circuits, where quick, sharp ball movement was key. But today, when the ball came her way, it felt… hesitant. Her teammates weren’t passing to her with the same confidence they usually had. They took an extra second before sending the ball her way, as if second-guessing whether she was the right option.

She brushed it off at first, telling herself it was just her imagination. But as the session wore on, she couldn’t ignore it. When she called for the ball during a 5v5 game, her teammates would glance at her and then look away, choosing to pass to someone else instead.

She saw it with Leah too, which hurt the most. Leah, who had always been her biggest supporter on the pitch, was opting for safer options, choosing to play the ball back to the defense rather than through to Y/N in midfield. It was small—barely noticeable—but once Y/N spotted it, she couldn’t unsee it.

The next time Y/N found herself in a shooting drill, McCabe lined up beside her. They were supposed to take turns firing shots on goal. Katie usually threw her arm around Y/N’s shoulder, making some cheeky joke to lighten the mood. But today, she didn’t say a word. When Y/N stepped up for her shot, she felt Katie’s eyes on her—watching, almost like she was expecting her to mess up.

Y/N’s shot went wide, skimming past the post, and Katie muttered something under her breath before quickly taking her own shot without looking at Y/N.

It was nothing obvious. No outright blame. But Y/N felt the growing distance, the subtle shift in the way her teammates interacted with her. They weren’t angry, not openly. But there was something in the way they moved around her now, a hesitation in their movements, as if they no longer fully trusted her to make the right decision on the ball.

When Y/N joined the next possession drill, Alessia caught her eye. Y/N raised a hand, signaling for the pass. She hesitated, her body language stiff, before turning and passing to Katie instead.

Y/N’s stomach dropped. There it is again, she thought. It was happening more frequently now—little moments of hesitation, like they didn’t believe she could handle the pressure. And it wasn’t just Alessia. Kim, the ever reliable captain, even showed a flicker of reluctance when Y/N was in a tight spot.

It wasn’t malicious. No one was purposefully shutting her out. It was more instinctual—an unconscious decision to avoid risk, to play it safe. And in their minds, Y/N was starting to represent that risk.

As the training session wound down, they moved into a full-pitch game. Y/N was determined to prove herself, to shake off this creeping doubt and show her teammates they could trust her again. But every time she tried to make herself available for the ball, there was an invisible wall between her and the rest of the team.

At one point, she found herself in acres of space on the left flank. She waved her arms, calling for the ball. Stina had it, and Y/N was the obvious option. But instead of playing the pass, she turned in the opposite direction, playing a shorter, safer ball back to the defense.

Y/N stopped in her tracks, feeling her chest tighten. It wasn’t just hesitation now. It was avoidance. They didn’t trust her.

The game continued, but Y/N couldn’t focus. Her mind was racing, replaying every moment from training. It was like a million tiny fractures forming around her, each subtle action another crack in the trust she had been working so hard to build.

By the end of the session, Y/N was exhausted—not from the physical exertion, but from the weight of what she had noticed. The trust her teammates had once shown her so freely was no longer there. It was fragile, slipping away with every subconscious decision they made on the pitch. And they probably didn’t even realize they were doing it.

As they walked off the pitch, Y/N lingered behind, staring at her boots, her mind swirling with doubt. She could feel the distance growing between her and the rest of the team, and she wasn’t sure how to bridge the gap.

She thought back to Leah’s words from before—we trust you—but now, those words felt hollow. The truth was staring her in the face. The team didn’t trust her anymore. And the worst part was, she wasn’t sure if she trusted herself either.

Y/N stood in front of the mirror in the Arsenal locker room, her hands gripping the edge of the sink as she stared at her reflection. Dark circles lingered beneath her eyes, a testament to sleepless nights spent agonizing over every touch, every mistake, every moment where her teammates had chosen to pass to someone else instead of her. The subtle rejections, the subconscious actions that screamed they didn’t trust her—it was all too much.

She had tried to brush it off, to tell herself it wasn’t a big deal. But the doubt festered. She had poured her heart into this team, but they had slowly started pulling away from her, treating her like she was a liability, not an asset.

Not anymore.

Today, something snapped inside her. She was done waiting for their approval, done trying to rebuild trust that had crumbled in ways she couldn’t even control. If they didn’t believe in her, she would show them exactly what she was capable of without needing their validation.

She shoved her locker closed with a loud clang, ignoring the curious glances thrown her way by a few of her teammates. Leah looked like she was about to say something, but Y/N didn’t give her a chance. She strode past her, pulling her jacket tighter as she headed out to the training pitch. There was no room for conversation today.

No room for anything but cold, ruthless focus.

From the moment the whistle blew to start the warm-up, Y/N was a different player. Gone was the hesitation, the doubt that had clung to her every movement. Instead, there was a sharpness in her eyes, an edge to her game that none of her teammates had seen before.

During possession drills, she moved with precision, cutting through defenders like they weren’t even there. When the ball came her way, she didn’t wait for approval. She didn’t care about making the safe play. Every pass was crisp, every touch was purposeful, and every shot was hit with venom.

Katie, usually quick with a joke or a snide remark, felt the sting of Y/N’s newfound intensity. During a one-on-one duel, Y/N drove past her with ease, leaving Katie stumbling in her wake. Instead of the usual banter that followed, Y/N didn’t even look back. She kept moving, eyes focused on the next target.

"Alright, Y/N, calm down," she muttered under her breath, but there was no real heat in her voice. She was unnerved, like the rest of them.

It wasn’t just Katie. In a scrimmage, Alessia found herself outmuscled by Y/N, who bulldozed past her to fire a shot into the top corner. Alessia frowned, jogging back as Y/N turned away without celebration, her expression icy.

Even Leah, who had always been Y/N’s closest ally, noticed the shift. When she tried to give a piece of tactical advice, Y/N brushed her off, barely sparing her a glance. “I’ve got it,” Y/N said flatly, cutting off any attempt at friendly instruction. Leah blinked in surprise, unsure of what to say.

Training became a battleground, and Y/N was at the center of it all—uncompromising, ruthless, and unwilling to let anyone stand in her way. She played every drill as if it were a final, every duel as if it were personal. And it worked. Her teammates, once hesitant to pass her the ball, started giving it to her again—but it wasn’t out of trust. It was out of fear.

By the end of the session, the team gathered around the coach for final instructions, but Y/N stood apart, her arms crossed, eyes distant. She could feel the unease settling in around her, could see the way her teammates exchanged glances when they thought she wasn’t looking. They were confused. They didn’t understand where this version of Y/N had come from.

The truth was, she didn’t care if they understood. They had pushed her aside, made her feel like she didn’t belong. Now, she was taking control.

As they broke for the locker room, Leah jogged up beside her. “Y/N, you alright? You were… intense out there today.”

Y/N didn’t slow down. “I’m fine,” she replied curtly, her voice lacking any warmth.

Leah frowned, clearly unsettled by the change in her demeanor. “Look, I know things have been rough, but we’re a team. You don’t have to do this alone.”

Y/N stopped, turning to face her with a cold, hard stare. “A team?” she repeated, bitterness lacing her words. “Funny, I didn’t feel like part of the team when you all stopped passing to me. When you decided I wasn’t good enough.”

Leah opened her mouth to respond, but Y/N didn’t give her the chance.

“Save it,” Y/N said, her voice low and sharp. “I don’t need your pity, and I don’t need your trust anymore. I’m done waiting for you all to decide I’m worth it.”

Without another word, Y/N turned on her heel and walked away, leaving Leah standing there, speechless.

The next few days passed in a blur of cold stares and silence. Y/N threw herself into every training session with the same brutal intensity, shutting everyone out. The team, sensing the shift, began to tread carefully around her. The friendliness returned—Alessia tried striking up conversations, Katie offered her usual teasing remarks, and Leah went out of her way to compliment Y/N’s play. But Y/N ignored it all.

She was done playing their games.

During a team meeting, Kim passed her a bottle of water with a small smile, but Y/N took it without even acknowledging her. The tension was palpable. The more Y/N distanced herself, the more her teammates tried to reach out—but it was too late. She wasn’t interested in their sudden friendliness, not after they had shut her out when she needed them most.

On the pitch, Y/N was a force to be reckoned with. No one dared question her decisions anymore. She was playing with the kind of confidence that didn’t require validation from anyone else. But off the pitch, she was unreachable. Every attempt to joke, to lighten the mood, was met with icy indifference. She had built a wall, and she wasn’t letting anyone through.

The team, once so close-knit, was beginning to fracture, and Y/N could see it in their eyes. They wanted things to go back to normal. They wanted the old Y/N back—the one who laughed with them, joked with them, leaned on them.

But that Y/N was gone.

The next game came, and Y/N walked onto the pitch with the same cold determination she had carried into training. She didn’t hear the crowd, didn’t see the banners or feel the weight of the expectations. All she knew was that she was there to do her job, and she would do it without looking back.

She didn’t need their trust anymore. She had her own.

The stadium was buzzing with anticipation as Y/N stepped out of the tunnel, the familiar roar of the crowd hitting her like a wall. But this time, the noise wasn’t for her. It was against her.

Booing.

Loud, relentless, and piercing. The sound echoed in her ears, like a knife twisting in her gut. As Y/N walked onto the pitch, her heart pounded—not from nerves, but from the searing burn of betrayal.

It wasn’t just the boos. The fans were chanting, harsh words spilling from their mouths, voices full of venom. She could hear it all.

“OVERRATED!”

“BENCH WARMER!”

“WASTE OF MONEY!”

Her jaw tightened, but she kept walking, eyes forward, refusing to let the weight of their hatred drag her down. It wasn’t the first time she had felt like an outsider. But this time, it stung worse than ever, because these were supposed to be her fans. The ones who had cheered her name when she first arrived. The ones who had celebrated her goals. Now, they were tearing her apart.

Her teammates exchanged nervous glances, clearly feeling the tension in the air. Leah moved closer to her, like she wanted to say something, but Y/N brushed past her. There was no point in talking. Not anymore.

She didn’t need anyone’s comfort. Not from her teammates. Not from the fans.

As the match kicked off, Y/N felt the tension in every muscle, like a coiled spring ready to snap. The ball zipped across the field, but for the first few minutes, it was hard to focus. The boos still rang in her ears, cutting deep. She could feel the eyes of the crowd on her, waiting for her to slip up, waiting for her to prove them right.

But she wouldn’t give them that satisfaction.

It started with a subtle shift—a quick turn on the ball, shaking off a defender with ease. Then, a sharp pass that split the midfield open, setting up a dangerous attack. And then, when the ball came her way again, she sprinted down the wing, faster and sharper than she had in weeks.

She was done playing with doubt.

By the 30th minute, Y/N had transformed the game. She was everywhere—breaking up play, threading impossible passes, cutting through defenders like they weren’t even there. Her touch was magnetic, pulling the ball toward her with a kind of grace and aggression that no one could ignore.

The crowd’s boos had softened. She could feel it—the shift in the atmosphere as the fans started to realize what they were witnessing. But she didn’t care. She wasn’t playing for them.

With ten minutes left in the first half, Y/N found herself at the edge of the box, surrounded by defenders. The crowd held its breath as she glanced up, eyes scanning the field with laser focus. And then she made her move—one swift cut to the left, leaving two defenders trailing behind, before curling a shot around the keeper and into the far corner of the net.

The stadium erupted into cheers, the same voices that had been jeering her now roaring her name.

But Y/N didn’t react. No fist pumps. No celebratory screams. No running toward the fans like she might have done before. Instead, she stood in place, her chest rising and falling with steady breaths as the noise washed over her.

And then she turned to the crowd—slowly, deliberately.

With one hand, Y/N pressed her index finger to her lips in a quiet, commanding gesture. The "Speak Now" celebration. Silence. She was demanding their silence.

The fans, mid-cheer, faltered, the shift in her expression unmistakable. It wasn’t a celebration. It was a statement.

She had heard them. She had felt every one of their insults, their boos, their taunts. And she had answered with her performance.

But she didn’t need their approval. She didn’t need their cheers now that she was winning.

The second half began, and Y/N played with the same intensity. The crowd was fully behind her now, cheering with every touch, every pass, every sprint down the wing. But she didn’t acknowledge it.

She didn’t need their validation.

Another assist, another goal, and yet she never once lifted her head to thank the crowd. Even when her teammates tried to pull her into celebrations, she shrugged them off, cold and distant. Her focus was razor-sharp, her mind locked on the game.

The final whistle blew, and Arsenal walked away with a hard-fought victory. The crowd was on their feet, chanting her name now, the same fans who had booed her at the start of the match. They wanted her to soak it in, to smile, to give them the satisfaction of seeing her return their admiration.

But Y/N didn’t even glance their way.

She walked off the pitch as if the noise didn’t exist, her face a mask of stone. Her teammates crowded around her, full of congratulations and praise, but she barely acknowledged them.

It wasn’t that she didn’t appreciate her team’s efforts or the win. It was that everything—the trust, the loyalty, the connection—felt hollow now. The boos had cut too deep, the doubt too heavy to shake. She had proven her point, but there was no satisfaction in it. Not from them.

And so, as the cheers rained down from the stands, Y/N kept walking, never once looking back.

The atmosphere in the press room was electric as journalists shuffled in, eager to catch the latest buzz about the upcoming friendly match between England and the USA. Y/N and Sarina sat at the long table, flanked by the team, but she could feel the tension in the air. The media had a way of inflating situations, and today was no different.

Emma Hayes, the newly appointed head coach of the USWNT, sat on the other end of the table Y/N, a self-assured smile on her face. Y/N had always respected Emma’s coaching prowess, but today she could feel the underlying edge in the air, especially as Emma turned her gaze toward her.

“Y/N, your recent performance against Arsenal has sparked a lot of discussions,” one journalist began. “Emma, do you think her confidence is misplaced, given how she has been booed by her own fans?”

Hayes leaned forward, her expression sharp. “Look, I think she’s a talented player, sure. But let’s not kid ourselves. Those goals she scored were lucky. Cockiness doesn’t win matches. We’ll see how she performs against a team that’s been world-class for years.”

Y/N couldn’t help but chuckle, her laughter echoing lightly through the room. The tension seemed to dissolve for just a moment as she leaned into the mic. “Well, I guess we’ll just have to wait and see,” she replied, a playful smirk on her lips. The journalists exchanged glances, half-amused, half-nervous at her nonchalance in the face of Emma’s sharp words.

As the day of the match arrived, the stadium was packed with fans from both sides, the buzz of excitement palpable. Y/N stood in the locker room, her heart racing—not with anxiety, but with determination. She was ready to show everyone, especially Emma, that her skill was no fluke.

The whistle blew, and the game kicked off. From the first touch, Y/N felt the rhythm of the match, moving fluidly with the ball at her feet. The USWNT players were fierce, but Y/N was more than prepared. The first half was intense, with chances flying from both sides. Y/N was quick, agile, and fierce, darting past defenders like a shadow.

Then it happened.

In the 30th minute, Y/N found herself on the edge of the box. The ball came to her, and with a quick glance at the goal, she unleashed a stunning strike that soared into the net, leaving Naeher no chance.

The crowd erupted, and Y/N didn’t just run to her teammates. Instead, she turned to face the USA bench, locking eyes with Emma. A wide smile spread across her face, and she raised her arms in a triumphant celebration, soaking in the cheers of the fans while pointedly ignoring the coach.

“Lucky shot!” Emma mouthed from the sidelines, but Y/N just waved her off, a confident grin on her face.

The game continued, and Y/N was in the zone. Her movements were precise, her decision-making sharp. She danced around defenders, threading through the tightest spaces. And soon enough, she added another goal to her tally—a beautiful header from a corner kick that flew past the keeper.

With each goal, she celebrated more emphatically in front of Emma, reveling in the chance to prove her wrong. After her second goal, she took a moment to blow a kiss toward the US bench, her laughter echoing across the pitch.

“Still lucky?” she mouthed playfully, her heart racing with adrenaline.

The score was now 3-1, and the game was slipping away from the USA. Y/N was relentless, and with fifteen minutes left, she found the ball at her feet yet again. This time, she maneuvered past two defenders before slotting the ball into the bottom corner of the net, her third goal of the match.

The crowd was deafening, a mix of cheers and chants for the England team. Y/N turned to Emma once more, her finger to her lips in that familiar “shh” gesture.

“Guess I’m just lucky,” she called out, a playful wink accompanying her taunt.

By the end of the match, Y/N had scored three goals, leading England to a convincing 4-2 victory. As the final whistle blew, she couldn’t help but beam with pride, the weight of Emma’s earlier comments now nonexistent.

Walking off the pitch, she was met with applause from teammates and fans alike. As Y/N approached the USA bench, she stopped in front of Emma, who looked slightly taken aback by the impressive performance.

“Did you see that, Emma?” Y/N asked, her voice dripping with playful confidence. “I guess my luck worked out today.”

Emma raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms but unable to hide a smirk. “Well played, Y/N. But don’t get too cocky; there’s always a rematch.”

With that, Y/N turned away, laughter bubbling up inside her as she walked toward her teammates, the thrill of victory fueling her every step. She had come to camp to show that she could rise above the doubts and criticisms, and she had done just that—proving, without a doubt, that she was a force to be reckoned with.

The training ground buzzed with excitement as the England team prepared for their next match. Y/N stood a little apart from the others, a mix of anticipation and caution swirling in her stomach. Being back in the camp meant being around her Arsenal teammates, and while she had felt the thrill of victory just days before against the USA, there was still an unspoken tension between them.

After that game, Y/N had celebrated her performance and her ability to rise above their earlier doubts, but deep down, she knew that her relationship with her teammates was still fragile. It was easy to brush off the boos from the crowd, but the weight of her teammates’ previous actions lingered like a ghost at the back of her mind.

“Y/N! Come join us!” Lucy called, her voice bright and inviting as she waved her over to a small group gathered around a table.

Y/N hesitated. Memories of their earlier interactions flooded back—how they had once seemed so united, and how quickly those bonds had frayed. She could see Leah, Alessia, and Beth chatting animatedly, laughter spilling from their lips, and for a moment, Y/N’s heart ached to be part of it. But the echoes of doubt reminded her to tread carefully.

“Hey, just grabbing some water!” Y/N called back, forcing a smile as she took a step away from the group. The last thing she wanted was to fall back into old patterns, to let herself get too close too soon.

After training, Y/N found herself lingering at the edge of the pitch, watching as her teammates shared inside jokes and playful banter. Leah caught her gaze and smiled, her expression warm and genuine. Y/N felt a flicker of longing but quickly smothered it. They had all said things—things that had hurt her—and trust was something that would take time to rebuild.

“Y/N!” Leah jogged over, her breath coming in quick bursts. “Are you joining us for lunch?”

“Maybe later,” Y/N replied, her tone light but her heart heavy. “I want to go over some drills first.”

“Come on, we’d love to have you!” Leah pressed, her eyes hopeful.

Y/N knew Leah meant well, but the offer felt suffocating. She couldn’t shake the feeling that, despite the smiles and apologies, her teammates were still subconsciously doubting her. “I just need a bit of space to clear my head,” she added, trying to soften the rejection.

Leah’s smile faltered for a moment, but she nodded. “Alright, but we miss you, Y/N. Just remember that.”

As Leah walked back to the group, Y/N felt the familiar mix of guilt and resolve. She missed them too, but keeping them at arm’s length felt like the only way to protect herself right now.

Later that evening, the team gathered for a meeting in their accommodations. The atmosphere was light, filled with laughter and chatter as the coaches outlined their strategy for the upcoming match. Y/N sat at the back, her heart racing as she tried to focus on the plans laid out before them.

When the discussion shifted to team bonding, Alessia looked around, her eyes landing on Y/N. “What about a game night later? We could all use a bit of fun!”

Y/N felt a surge of warmth at the suggestion, but she quickly reminded herself of her boundaries. “Sounds great, but I might skip out tonight,” she said, forcing a casual tone. “I have some things to catch up on.”

Tooney tilted her head, a teasing smile dancing on her lips. “You’re always ‘catching up’ on something, Y/N. Come on, just for a little while?”

It would be so easy to say yes, to slip back into the comfort of friendship and camaraderie. But Y/N felt the walls she had built around herself tighten, the need for self-preservation overshadowing her longing for connection.

“Maybe next time,” she said, her voice firm but gentle. “I just need a bit more time to get settled.”

As the night wore on, Y/N lay in her bed, staring at the ceiling. She felt torn—wanting to reconcile with her teammates but still needing to shield herself from further hurt.

After a while, she heard laughter and chatter in the hallway outside her room. It was her teammates, gathering for their game night. The sounds were inviting, but she remained resolute, knowing that jumping back into the fold too quickly could lead to old wounds reopening.

Yet, in that moment of solitude, she also felt a flicker of hope. Maybe there was a way to navigate this new dynamic—rebuilding trust slowly, one step at a time.

The next morning, during breakfast, Y/N made a tentative decision. She could at least acknowledge her teammates without fully immersing herself in their camaraderie just yet. As she joined the table, she greeted them with a smile, feeling the warmth of their presence.

“Hey, how was game night?” Y/N asked, her curiosity genuine.

“It was hilarious! You missed out on some epic moments,” Alessia replied, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Y/N allowed herself to laugh lightly, feeling the tension begin to ease. “I’ll catch the next one, promise.”

Leah beamed, and Beth leaned in closer. “Good! Just don’t leave us hanging next time, alright? We need our star charades player.”

Y/N nodded, feeling a flicker of warmth spread through her chest. The distance she maintained was still there, but it felt a bit softer. Perhaps she could find a balance—a way to keep her teammates at arm’s length while still allowing for the possibility of healing.

As the meal continued, Y/N remained engaged, listening to their stories and sharing light banter. She felt the barriers she had built slowly start to shift, the cracks allowing for a fragile connection to grow.

Maybe reconciliation didn’t have to mean complete vulnerability. It could be a dance, a careful waltz where trust was rebuilt step by step, and for now, that was enough.

---

The fluorescent lights of the Arsenal training facility felt harsh as Y/N entered the lounge, her mood buoyed by a solid training session. The sounds of laughter and chatter greeted her, but today, an unease settled in her chest. She had been meaning to talk to Leah, but every time she tried, the words got stuck in her throat. There was still an invisible barrier between them, one that neither seemed to know how to cross and Y/N missed her friend.

Y/N grabbed her phone, scrolling through her notifications absentmindedly. A new tweet caught her eye, and curiosity got the better of her. She clicked on it, her heart sinking as she recognized the page that had been gaining traction online. It was a cruel account that thrived on negativity, targeting players with biting insults and relentless mockery.

“Can you believe how overrated she is? Just one lucky game against the USA, and suddenly she thinks she’s the star of the team. Please.”

Y/N felt her stomach churn as she read through the comments, each one more brutal than the last. They mocked her skills, her personality, and her place in the team. It was disheartening, especially when all she wanted was to be seen and valued.

As she scrolled, something caught her attention. One tweet mentioned a moment that only one person knew about—something deeply personal she had confided in Leah during one of their late-night talks. It was a painful memory from her childhood, one that she had kept locked away, sharing only with someone she thought she could trust.

“Funny how she thinks she’s a part of this team when she can’t even handle the pressure. Remember that time she almost broke down after a practice? Guess she just can’t take the heat.”

Y/N’s breath caught in her throat. Anger surged through her, hotter than anything she had ever felt. How could someone know about that moment unless they were there? And the only person there was Leah.

“Leah?” Y/N whispered, her heart racing as realization dawned on her. The only person she had ever opened up to was Leah. A cold shiver ran down her spine. Was she behind this hate page? The betrayal felt like a sharp knife twisting in her gut.

With trembling fingers, she clicked on the profile. It was anonymous, of course, but the account had a familiar rhythm and tone, one that she recognized all too well. Her heart sank further as she began connecting the dots. Leah’s laughter, her playful teasing—it all felt different now, tainted by this newfound suspicion.

Y/N’s mind raced. Was Leah really behind this? Was she laughing at her, too?

The rest of the day passed in a blur. Y/N tried to focus during training, but every time Leah’s voice rang out, her blood boiled. She could feel Leah’s eyes on her, and it made her skin crawl. Y/N couldn’t shake the feeling of betrayal looming like a dark cloud.

After training, she made her way to the locker room, determination settling in her bones. Y/N needed to confront Leah. She needed answers.

As she entered, the atmosphere was lively, with teammates joking and chatting, but Y/N felt like an outsider. Leah was at her locker, chatting animatedly with Katie, but when she noticed Y/N, her expression faltered slightly.

“Hey, Y/N! Great session today!” Leah called, forcing a smile.

Y/N felt a surge of anger at Leah’s false cheer. “We need to talk,” she said, her tone cold and flat.

Leah’s smile faded, replaced by confusion. “Uh, okay? What’s up?”

Y/N took a deep breath, trying to steady her racing heart. “I saw that page again.You know the won that keeps going viral with the troll tweets. And there was something in there… something I only told you.”

Leah’s brows knitted together, " I don't kn-" but before she could respond, Y/N pressed on. “You know what I’m talking about. How could someone else know that, if it wasn’t you? Either your telling someone and their writing this or your the dick behind the page. So, which one is it are you a gossip or are you just a bitch?"

The locker room fell silent, the laughter and chatter abruptly cut off as all eyes turned to them. Leah’s expression shifted from confusion to something deeper, a flicker of guilt that didn’t go unnoticed.

“Y/N, I—” Leah started, but Y/N cut her off, unable to bear the thought of excuses.

“No! You don’t get to explain. How could you? After everything we’ve been through, how could you betray me like this?”

The air was thick with tension. Y/N could feel the heat rising in her cheeks, the embarrassment of her feelings laid bare in front of their teammates.

Leah stepped closer, her voice low. “I swear I didn’t—”

“Then how? How could they know about something so personal unless you had something to do with it?” Y/N’s voice cracked, anger mixed with hurt.

“Y/N, listen. I would never do that to you,” Leah insisted, her eyes earnest. “You have to believe me. There are people out there who will twist your words, but I’m not one of them. I’ve got your back.”

But Y/N wasn’t convinced. “Do you? Because it feels like you’re just another person trying to bring me down.”

Leah’s expression shifted to frustration. “That’s not fair! You’re pushing me away, and now you’re making it seem like I’m the enemy when I’m just trying to help.”

Y/N shook her head, a mix of anger and sorrow swirling inside her. “You don’t get it, Leah. It’s hard for me to trust anyone, and especially someone I thought I could confide in.”

Silence fell heavy around them, and Y/N could see the hurt in Leah’s eyes. For a moment, the world faded away, leaving just the two of them and the pain that had grown between them.

“Y/N, I swear I didn’t say anything. Please believe me. We’re a team, and I want to be there for you,” Leah pleaded, stepping closer.

But Y/N took a step back, the distance between them feeling necessary. “I need time. Time to figure things out.”

With that, Y/N turned and walked out of the locker room, leaving behind the laughter and camaraderie that once felt like home. The weight of betrayal hung over her, and as she stepped into the cool air outside, she felt more alone than ever.

In the days that followed, Y/N struggled with the heaviness in her heart. The hate page was still active, and the words stung more than ever. Each cruel tweet felt like a dagger, but knowing that Leah could have been involved made it unbearable.

She maintained a distance from her teammates, especially Leah. While they tried to include her, Y/N kept her walls up, her trust shattered. The once-strong bonds felt like threads about to snap.

During training, Y/N poured all her anger into her performance, her determination becoming a shield against the hurt. But even as she excelled, the shadows of doubt lingered, and she couldn’t shake the feeling that Leah had betrayed her trust.

Maybe reconciliation would come with time, but for now, Y/N knew she had to protect herself, even if it meant facing the world alone because no matter what she knew she could only rely on herself.

---

The cool breeze swept through the streets of Barcelona, wrapping around Y/N as she stepped off the plane, her heart pounding with excitement and apprehension. It felt surreal to finally be here, ready to begin a new chapter of her life with FC Barcelona Femení. After months of heartache and distrust at Arsenal, she had made the easy decision to leave, believing that a fresh start was exactly what she needed.

As she arrived at the training facility, Y/N could feel the energy buzzing in the air. The place was a hive of activity—coaches shouting encouragement, players laughing and teasing each other as they prepared for the upcoming season. It was a stark contrast to the tension she had experienced at Arsenal, and Y/N felt a flicker of hope ignite within her.

“Welcome, Y/N!” a voice called out, and she turned to see the familiar face of her new coach, Pere Romeu. He approached her with a warm smile, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. “We’ve been waiting for you. You’re going to love it here.”

Y/N returned the smile, feeling a sense of belonging start to settle in her chest. She had seen glimpses of the camaraderie within the team through videos and social media, but experiencing it firsthand was something entirely different.

As she entered the locker room, the atmosphere was lively. Teammates greeted her with open arms, welcoming her as if she had always been part of the squad. Each hug and friendly smile chipped away at the walls she had built around herself.

“Y/N! Finally!” said Aitana, pulling her into a tight embrace. “We’re so excited to have you here!”

“Yeah, it’s about time you joined us,” said Ingrid with a teasing grin. “Barcelona’s been waiting for your magic.”

Y/N laughed, her heart swelling with warmth. This was a team that valued her, and it felt refreshing after everything she had endured. As they settled into the day’s training session, Y/N found herself blending seamlessly into the rhythm of the squad. The drills were challenging yet invigorating, and the players pushed each other to be their best, encouraging her along the way.

During a break, Y/N sat with her new teammates, feeling the warmth of their camaraderie. The conversation flowed easily, and for the first time in a long while, she felt at ease.

“So, what do you think of the city so far?” asked Jana, the young winger with a vibrant smile and infectious energy.

“It’s beautiful,” Y/N replied, glancing around at the bustling atmosphere. “I can’t believe I’m finally here. It feels like a dream.”

“Just wait until you see the Camp Nou,” Jana said, her eyes lighting up with excitement. “It’s incredible. The fans are amazing. You’re going to love playing there.”

As they chatted, Y/N couldn’t help but notice the way Jana’s laughter made her heart race. There was something special about the way they connected, and Y/N felt a warmth bloom within her. But she quickly reminded herself to be cautious. After everything she had been through, it felt risky to let her guard down again.

The weeks rolled by, and Y/N continued to settle into life at Barcelona. The team had embraced her wholeheartedly, making her feel like an integral part of their family. She found herself laughing more, training harder, and genuinely enjoying the game again. It was a refreshing change from the suffocating atmosphere she had left behind.

Jana became a constant presence by her side, their bond growing stronger with each passing day. They shared jokes during training, worked together on drills, and celebrated each other’s successes. Y/N found herself looking forward to their moments together, her heart fluttering whenever Jana flashed her that brilliant smile.

“Hey, do you want to grab dinner after training?” Jana asked one day, her tone casual, but Y/N could see the spark of hope in her eyes.

“Sure, that sounds great,” Y/N replied, feeling a rush of excitement. “I’d love to.”

That evening, they found a cozy little restaurant tucked away in the streets of Barcelona. Over delicious tapas and laughter, Y/N felt the last of her walls crumble. Jana’s easy laughter and genuine curiosity about her life made her feel seen and valued in a way she hadn’t experienced in far too long.

“You know, I’m really glad you’re here,” Jana said, her voice softening. “You bring something special to this team.”

Y/N’s heart raced at the sincerity in Jana’s words. “I’m glad to be here too. I was nervous about starting fresh, but everyone has made it so easy.”

Their eyes locked for a moment, and Y/N felt a surge of emotions rushing to the surface. Could she really let someone in again? Could she risk the possibility of heartbreak?

“Y/N,” Jana began, her expression turning serious, “I know this might be too soon, but I feel like we have a connection. I like you, and I want to get to know you better. Would you—”

Before Jana could finish, Y/N felt a rush of warmth flood her cheeks. “I like you too,” she admitted, her heart racing. “I’ve been trying to figure out how to say it.”

A wide smile spread across Jana’s face, lighting up the dimly lit restaurant. “Really? I thought I was going to have to convince you.”

Y/N laughed, her worries dissipating. “No convincing needed. I just… I was scared. But I want to see where this goes.”

They continued to talk, the evening slipping away unnoticed as they shared stories and dreams, laughter echoing through the air. As they walked back, hand in hand, Y/N felt a sense of hope and excitement. The walls she had built around her heart were finally crumbling, replaced by something beautiful and promising.

The next day, Y/N stepped onto the pitch at Camp Nou for the first time, her heart swelling with pride and anticipation. The stadium was a sea of blue and garnet, the fans chanting in unison. The energy was electric, and as she took her place among her teammates, she felt a rush of belonging.

With every touch of the ball, Y/N felt freer than she ever had before. The love and support from her new team poured into her, fueling her performance. Each pass, each run, felt like a celebration of her new beginning.

As the game progressed, the cheers from the crowd washed over her, a stark contrast to the boos she had once faced. This time, she was embraced by love and acceptance, and it felt like coming home.

After scoring her first goal, Y/N couldn’t help but run towards the stands, raising her arms in celebration. The crowd erupted, chanting her name. In that moment, she knew she had made the right choice. She was no longer defined by her past, but by the love and trust she was building here in Barcelona.

As the final whistle blew, Y/N joined her teammates in the center of the pitch, laughter and joy filling the air. Jana wrapped her arms around her, pulling her close. “I knew you’d shine here,” she said, her voice filled with pride.

Y/N smiled, feeling the warmth of friendship and love enveloping her. “Thank you for being here, for believing in me.”

They stood together, basking in the joy of the moment, surrounded by teammates and fans who had welcomed her with open arms. Y/N had finally found her place, her new family, and with Jana by her side, she was ready to embrace whatever the future held.

---

The atmosphere at the Emirates Stadium was electric as Arsenal prepared to face FC Barcelona in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Fans filled the stands, a sea of red and white waving flags, and the air buzzed with excitement and anticipation. For Y/N, it was a match fraught with mixed emotions. On one hand, she was thrilled to be back at the stadium where she had spent so many seasons; on the other, she knew that her former team was about to face a Barcelona squad that had embraced her fully since her transfer.

As the whistle blew to start the match, Y/N took her position on the pitch, feeling the weight of expectations from both sets of fans. Arsenal’s supporters had always been a source of pride, but she could feel the tension building among her former teammates. The first half was grueling, with Barcelona quickly demonstrating their dominance. Y/N played fiercely, but it was clear that the synergy of her new team was unmatched.

With each goal that slipped past Arsenal’s defense, Y/N felt a pang of sympathy for her old teammates. The score climbed higher, reaching a staggering 10-0 by the final whistle. Y/N scored three goals herself, her joy tempered by the sheer humiliation of the scoreline. The cheers from the Barcelona fans were a stark contrast to the silence that enveloped the Arsenal supporters.

As the teams shook hands after the match, Y/N noticed Leah Williamson, her former friend, standing a few feet away, looking utterly defeated. The tension in the air was palpable. Leah’s eyes flickered over to Y/N, and for a moment, there was a mix of resentment and longing.

Y/N approached Leah, her heart racing. She had spent so long trying to rebuild her self-worth, and now, in the aftermath of such a humiliating defeat, she felt a surge of confidence. “Looks like you could use some practice on the pitch,” Y/N said, a smirk creeping onto her lips. “I mean, ten goals? Even I didn’t think you could be this generous.”

Leah’s expression shifted from surprise to anger, her fists clenching at her sides. “That was a team effort, Y/N,” she replied sharply, her tone laced with frustration. “Don’t think this is all on me.”

Y/N’s smirk widened, sensing Leah’s vulnerability. “But you were the captain, weren’t you? I guess leading your team to a double-digit loss really takes a toll on your leadership skills.”

The words stung, and Y/N saw the hurt flash across Leah’s face. For a brief moment, she regretted her harshness, but the adrenaline from the match kept her bravado intact. Leah opened her mouth to retort, but Y/N cut her off.

“Honestly, I didn’t expect much from you. But hey, at least I finally got to officially score a few goals against you,” Y/N added, the edge in her voice almost triumphant.

Leah’s eyes narrowed, her posture stiffening. “You think you’re so clever now, don’t you? Just remember, you’re not as untouchable as you think.”

“Touché,” Y/N replied, raising an eyebrow. “But I guess this proves that the grass really is greener on the other side, doesn’t it?”

With that, Y/N turned on her heel, walking away from Leah, leaving her former vice-captain standing alone amidst the chaos of post-match interviews and congratulatory shouts from her new teammates. She could hear the echo of Leah’s frustration behind her, but she didn’t turn back.

As she joined her Barcelona teammates, celebrating the victory, Y/N felt a mix of satisfaction and sadness. The rivalry was fierce, but she had finally stepped into her power, leaving the past behind her.

---

It was that time of the year again international duty and the atmosphere at England’s training camp was usually vibrant, filled with laughter and camaraderie as players prepared for their upcoming matches. However, today felt heavy, charged with unspoken words and brewing animosities. Y/N and Leah had been circling around each other all week, their past unresolved and emotions simmering beneath the surface.

During a break in training, Leah made a comment that set Y/N off. “You know, if you spent half as much time focusing on the team as you do on your Instagram following, maybe we’d actually win something,” Leah said, her tone dripping with disdain.

Y/N whipped around, eyes blazing. “Oh, please. At least I have accomplishments to celebrate. You should try winning sometimes instead of hiding behind your club legacy like a shield.”

Leah stepped forward, her frustration palpable. “You think it’s easy? Being the one everyone looks to when things go wrong? You’re just too wrapped up in your own world to see that.”

“Wrapped up? Is that what you call it? Because I call it self-preservation,” Y/N shot back, her voice rising. “I mean, let’s not pretend like you haven’t spent your fair share of time trying to tear me down behind the scenes. How’s that secret hate page working out for you, Leah? Oh wait, you wouldn’t know. It’s not like I told you about it.”

Sarina, looked over from where she was chatting with another coach. She noticed the escalating tension and approached the two players. “What’s going on here?” she asked, her voice calm yet firm.

“Nothing,” Leah snapped, crossing her arms defensively.

Y/N scoffed. “Oh, it’s definitely something, Sarina. Leah here seems to think she can criticize my focus while she’s been busy playing the victim. I mean, it must be exhausting being the team’s emotional punching bag.”

“Emotional punching bag? Really?” Leah’s voice shook with anger. “You have no idea what it’s like to carry the weight of this team on your shoulders. You think you can just waltz in, score a few goals, and suddenly you’re god?”

“Waltz in? That’s rich coming from you. How about I just return the favor for all the snide remarks and backhanded comments you’ve thrown my way? This is what you wanted, right? A little taste of your own medicine?” Y/N countered, a cruel smile on her lips.

Sarina stepped in, sensing the need to de-escalate the situation. “Both of you, enough. We’re here to prepare for our upcoming matches, not to air grievances. Y/N, Leah, take a step back. You’re both valuable players, but this isn’t helping anyone.”

Y/N folded her arms, refusing to back down. “I’m just calling it like I see it, Sarina. Leah acts like she’s so above it all, but the truth is, she’s just petty. She has no right to throw stones when she’s living in a glass house.”

Leah’s cheeks flushed with anger, but she remained silent, clearly struggling to find a response. Sarina continued, “Y/N, if you have an issue, you need to address it in a constructive way. Leah, you need to step back and consider how your words affect your teammates. This isn’t just about you anymore.”

Y/N took a deep breath, her defiance softening slightly. “Constructive? Like how Leah constructs her little narratives about me? I’m just giving her a taste of her own medicine.”

“Enough!” Sarina said sharply, drawing the attention of the other players nearby. “You both need to put this behind you. We’re a team, and right now, it seems like you’re more focused on tearing each other down than working together.”

Y/N rolled her eyes, finally stepping back. “Fine, whatever. I’ll keep my distance. Seems like that’s what you want anyway, Leah.”

Leah glared, but the fire in her eyes began to dim. “I didn’t ask for this, Y/N. You’re the one making it personal.”

“Personal? Oh, it’s definitely personal now,” Y/N said, a bitter smile crossing her lips. “But don’t worry, I won’t let your insecurities ruin my game. I’ll just make sure to keep winning while you wallow in your own self pity.”

With that, Y/N turned and walked away, the tension still thick in the air. Sarina watched her go, a frown etched on her face. The camp had enough challenges without internal conflicts tearing them apart.

As Y/N walked away, she could hear Leah muttering something under her breath, but she refused to turn back. This was her moment to stand her ground, even if it meant losing a friendship in the process.

“Good luck carrying that weight, Leah,” she called over her shoulder, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “I’m sure you’ll manage just fine.”

The atmosphere in the England camp had been tense since the blow-up between Y/N and Leah. Sarina had taken time to consider the situation, and the repercussions were about to unfold. As players prepared for the upcoming friendly against Spain, the weight of unspoken tensions lingered in the air.

Y/N was sitting in the lounge, scrolling through her phone, when Sarina entered the room with a serious expression. “Y/N, can I have a word?” she said, gesturing for Y/N to follow her to a quieter corner.

“Sure,” Y/N replied, her stomach twisting with unease.

Once they were away from prying ears, Sarina crossed her arms. “I’ve spoken with the coaching staff about your altercation with Leah,” she began, her tone firm but not unkind. “While I understand your frustrations, your behavior was unacceptable. I need to maintain a cohesive team environment, especially as we head into an important match against Spain.”

Y/N felt her heart race, the earlier argument replaying in her mind. “So what? You’re just going to punish me and let Leah walk away scot-free?”

“Leah is the captain. She was trying to keep the team united. She’s been through a lot and is trying to lead,” Sarina replied. “I’m giving you a one-match suspension. You won’t be playing against Spain.”

Y/N’s jaw dropped in disbelief. “You can’t be serious! This is ridiculous! Leah instigated it! You can’t just let her off the hook like this.”

“Y/N,” Sarina said sharply, “This is about maintaining discipline. You can choose to see this as unfair, but I need you to focus on the team. This is not just about you.”

Feeling a surge of anger and betrayal, Y/N’s voice dropped, her words laced with resentment. “Fine. If you think I’m the problem, then I’ll take my problems elsewhere.” Without waiting for a response, Y/N stormed out of the room, her heart pounding in her chest.

An hour later, as the team gathered for the pre-game meeting, Y/N made a decision that shocked even herself. She would withdraw from international duty entirely. She sent a quick message to Sarina and the coaching staff, stating her intent to leave. She packed her belongings and headed out of the hotel, her heart heavy but resolute.

As she stepped into the bright lights of the stadium, she found a spot among the crowd, far from the field where her teammates were warming up. She pulled on the Spain jersey that Jana had gifted her during one of their dates, the bright red fabric feeling both foreign and comforting. It was a bold statement, and she felt a rush of defiance as she settled into her seat.

The match kicked off, and Y/N watched with a mix of emotions. Her former teammates were battling on the field, and every time Leah made a play, Y/N felt a pang of conflict—anger mixed with a sense of longing. The fans around her cheered and jeered, the energy of the game intoxicating. Yet, she felt strangely detached, her heart pounding not just for the game but for what she had left behind.

As the game progressed, Y/N couldn’t help but cheer for Spain even though she loved playing for England, England didn't love her. But she loved Jana played for Spain and Y/N loved her and she loved Y/N. It was exhilarating to be on this side of the field, free from the pressures of being in the squad. Every goal scored by Spain felt like a release, and she found herself shouting and celebrating as if she were one of their players. The rush of adrenaline filled her as she threw her arms up with the crowd, feeling a sense of liberation wash over her.

Throughout the match, she caught glimpses of Leah on the field, the captain doing her best to rally her team. But as the minutes ticked by, Y/N felt the bitter taste of betrayal lingering in her mouth. It was not just Sarina’s decision that hurt, but the realization that Leah, who had once been a close friend, was now part of a system that had betrayed her.

By the time the final whistle blew, signaling a hard-fought victory for Spain, Y/N felt a complex mix of emotions. She had made her choice, but now she was left with the consequences. As she watched the celebration unfold on the pitch, she knew that this was a pivotal moment for her—one that might change the course of her career and friendships forever.

“Looks like I made the right choice after all,” she muttered under her breath, the vibrant red of the Spain jersey standing out against the sea of England colors around her. “Let’s see how they handle this.”

With that thought, Y/N settled back into her seat, ready to embrace whatever came next.

As the final whistle echoed through the stadium, Y/N felt a rush of exhilaration. The Spanish team was celebrating their well-deserved victory, and she was ready to join in the festivities. She spotted Jana, her girlfriend, amidst the throng players calling friends and family down to the field. The sight of her made Y/N’s heart swell with a warmth she hadn’t felt in a long time.

With a grin, Y/N pushed her way through the jubilant crowd, joining Jana and their friends. “Did you see that goal?” Jana laughed, her eyes sparkling. “I swear, I could have scored that one blindfolded!”

Y/N chuckled, playfully rolling her eyes. “You mean like Y/N did with Arsenal last season?” Salma quipped.

“Hey now, let’s not dredge up old traumas,” Y/N replied with a mock frown. “Today is a day for celebrating my favourite team, remember?”

“favourite team, huh? Is that what we’re calling it now?” Jana teased, nudging Y/N with her shoulder. “I think I like the sound of that.”

As the Spanish players began to gather for photos, Y/N felt a sense of belonging that had eluded her for so long. She joined in, posing with Jana and their friends, all laughter and smiles. The atmosphere was electric, filled with camaraderie and joy, a stark contrast to the tension she had left behind with the England team.

But just as Y/N was about to snap a group selfie, she caught sight of Leah across the pitch, flanked by a few other English players. Leah’s expression was a mix of anger and disbelief as she watched Y/N embrace her new life so freely. Y/N felt a thrill of defiance course through her.

“Hey, look who it is,” Y/N called out, raising her phone in Leah’s direction, a cheeky grin plastered on her face. “Do you want to join us for a picture? I’m sure you could use a few tips on how to have fun!”

Leah’s face flushed with irritation as she marched over, her teammates trailing behind her. “Y/N, this is pathetic,” Leah snapped, her voice rising above the celebrations. “You’re acting like you're actually on that team. You didn’t even give us a chance to explain.”

Y/N crossed her arms, maintaining her playful demeanor. “Oh, come on, Leah. You can’t be this upset over a little fun. Don’t you have your own fans to focus on?” She gestured to the scattering of England supporters still lingering near the bench.

Leah stepped closer, her frustration boiling over. “This is serious. You think it’s easy to see a teammate celebrating with the enemy? You’ve turned your back on us!”

“Teammate? Is that what we were?” Y/N shot back, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “Seems more like we were just coworkers who barely knew each other.”

Just then, Alexia approached, her presence commanding. She had been watching the exchange with an amused smile. “Oh, Leah,” she interjected, her tone playful yet authoritative. “You should know by now that if a bird wants to leave the flock, you don’t chase after them. You let them fly, especially if they’ve found a better nest.”

Leah opened her mouth to retort, but Alexia continued smoothly, “Besides, you wouldn’t want to throw a tantrum in front of the fans, now would you? That’s a pretty bad look for a captain.”

A hush fell over the surrounding group, and Y/N couldn’t help but let out a laugh. “That’s right, Leah. Maybe take notes from a real captain on how to handle this gracefully,” she quipped, relishing the moment.

Leah’s expression turned to one of barely contained fury, and she took a step back, realizing she was outmatched not just by Y/N but now by Alexia too. “Whatever,” Leah finally muttered, turning on her heel and marching away with her teammates, who looked just as bewildered.

Y/N watched Leah retreat, her heart racing. There was a strange mix of triumph and sorrow in her chest. “Wow, Alexia,” she said, grinning. “That was amazing.”

Alexia shrugged with a smirk. “Just watching out for our own, right? And besides, you deserve to celebrate the win without the baggage of your old team.”

Jana squeezed Y/N’s hand, her eyes shining with admiration. “I knew you’d fit right in with us.”

With that, the group burst into laughter again, the earlier tension fading into the background. Y/N felt free, unburdened by the shadows of her past. She was ready to embrace whatever came next, knowing she had found her place among her new teammates—and in Jana’s arms. Bound by more than trust, bound by love.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The End

[millyh23]

I was think of doing a little countdown to Halloween for these last 10 days by releasing a different Halloween/Autumn themed fic everyday so if there are any specific players you’d like send them through

[millyh23]

Both, maybe sisters bot reader broke up with her friend

Coming out soon

I would give it a name but I can’t think right now but when I can think of one it will be up in the masterlist