#platoniclucybronze

[virgoilluminati]

World Class

chapter 1

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A/N: Hello, I know i have been absolutely M.I.A and again I apologise profusely. In all honesty, Uni life is beginning to take over all of my life and I have no idea how long it will be before I write again. However I thought I would post this before I go on a hiatus. Its a bit late but i am a massive MASSIVE fan of the englands football teams and i wrote a fic imagining that the reader was a female football player who is together with Jude Bellingham. This could honestly be a complete shambles and I wouldn't know, but enjoy 😊

Concept: Jude Bellingham x Reader, Platonic!leahwilliamsonxreader

Warnings: some angst but not really (ps this is with the girls football team that I wanted to happen, not the reality - so yes some people are on the team who weren't actually in it but sh, its a fic).

Word Count: 3.2K

@y/nmorrison_

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y/nmorrison_ Pinch me 🤏

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judebellingham Never been prouder 💕

leahwilliamson finally! You and me together! The duo we've all be waiting for.

lionesses: youngest ever lioness to date!

4 days ago

Since the earliest memories I could summon, I had been immersed in the world of football. It was a constant presence, an unspoken member of our family, binding us together in a shared passion. My dad’s unyielding devotion to our local football club, Brighton and Hove Albion, was something that bordered on the legendary. It began as a fondness and over time transformed into an all-encompassing obsession, one that cast its spell over our weekends and echoed in our conversations throughout the week.

As the club’s journey through the ranks of the footballing hierarchy mirrored its ascent in my dad’s heart, the rest of us became increasingly entwined in its narrative. Each weekend was a pilgrimage to the stadium, a sacred tradition that we upheld without fail. It wasn’t just a match; it was a spectacle of emotions, a symphony of chants, and a canvas painted with the vibrant colors of loyalty.

Even as a child, I felt the magnetic pull of the sport. It wasn’t just about the game itself, but the shared experience, the collective heartbeat that surged through the stands. As my family cheered, groaned, and celebrated along with thousands of others, I too found myself swept up in the ebb and flow of emotions that only football could ignite.

Perhaps it was the camaraderie, the sense of belonging to something greater, that had me captivated. Maybe it was the way the ball danced across the pitch, carrying with it the dreams and aspirations of players and fans alike. Whatever the reason, football wasn’t just a sport—it was a part of our lives, an unspoken thread that wove its way into our conversations, our routines, and our shared memories.

As the years rolled on, and the enchantment of those weekends at the stadium grew stronger, I began to realize that football wasn’t merely my dad’s passion—it was mine too. From the innocence of childhood to the threshold of adulthood, the love for the game had taken root in my heart, much like the Albion’s colors had embedded themselves in my dad’s soul. And as I stood among the fervent supporters, my voice merging with theirs, it was clear that my journey into the world of football was not merely by chance

*The cheers of the crowd blend into an exhilarating symphony as you stand amidst the throngs of fans, your heart pounding in rhythm with the chants. All around you, people are caught up in the energy of the stadium, united by a common love for the game that's being played out before them.*

*You watch with wide eyes, barely able to contain your excitement, as "Morrison" takes the field. The name echoes in your mind, carried by the fervor of the crowd. The sight of the player, skillfully maneuvering the ball, is mesmerizing. Every swift turn, every precise pass, every daring shot—it's a dance of artistry and athleticism that unfolds before your young eyes.*

*As you stand there, a spectator in the sea of supporters, something shifts within you. In that moment, amid the roars and cheers, you're not just witnessing a match; you're witnessing a dream taking shape. It's as if a door you never knew existed has swung open, revealing a world of possibilities you had never dared to imagine.*

*The air is charged with anticipation, the excitement palpable, as the football journalists seated nearby share their thoughts. "Look at Morrison," one of them remarks, their voice tinged with awe. "The way he navigates the field, it's like he's a step ahead of everyone else. His vision and control are simply extraordinary."*

*"Absolutely," another journalist chimes in. "His technique is impeccable, and he seems to have an innate sense of where every player is on the pitch. Morrison's ability to create opportunities out of thin air is what sets him apart."*

*As the match unfolds, "Morrison" continues to steal the spotlight, leaving the commentators and analysts in awe of his talents. "Did you see that pass?" one exclaims. "He threaded the needle between three defenders!"*

*"He's a true maestro," another adds. "A virtuoso with the ball at his feet. The way he orchestrates the game, it's like watching a symphony."*

*And amidst these exclamations of admiration, you stand captivated, your eyes never leaving "Morrison." He's not just a player on the field; he's a magician, a master of his craft. And in that moment, as the football world marvels at his prowess, a seed is planted in your heart—a dream to follow in his footsteps, to make your mark on the same field that's currently alive with his magic.*

*Unbeknownst to anyone around you, including the football journalists whose words paint a vivid picture of "Morrison's" talent, this moment will become a defining one for you. A seed has been planted, a dream sparked. The seed of wanting to step onto that very field, to wear the jersey of a national team, to dance with the ball just like "Morrison." And little do they know, the young spectator lost in admiration is you, Y/N, who will one day carry this inspiration into the very spotlight that now shines so brightly on "Morrison."*

From the age of three, you were thrust into the colorful tapestry of football. Those early memories are a mosaic of vivid sights, sounds, and emotions. You remember the thrill of entering the stadium for the first time, flanked by your brothers who were then 6 and 8, and your sister, who at 5, was as eager as any of you to be part of the excitement.

Back then, the Albion was more than a football team; it was a place where memories were crafted. It was the collective heartbeat of your family, the nucleus around which your weekends revolved. Each match day felt like a page turned in your shared story. The cheers, the groans, the jubilation—it was a symphony of emotions that resonated deep within you, leaving an indelible mark on your young heart.

As the years flowed by, you watched as the team underwent its own transformations. Players came and went, and the fortunes of the club swayed like a pendulum. And in parallel, you observed the changes within your family. Your dad, once a fervent and boisterous fan, began to carry streaks of grey in his hair, the marks of time etched on his face. Your brothers, who used to mirror the movements of their favorite players, gradually ventured into their own sports and pursuits, creating their own paths in life.

Your eldest brother, who was 10 when you were born, stood as a bridge between the older and younger siblings. He brought a unique perspective, having witnessed both the carefree days of his youth and the responsibilities that came with growing up. His presence, though more subtle, was a steady thread connecting your family’s journey through the years.

And then there was your sister, who had started off as a little football enthusiast, clad in Albion colors, with a keen interest in the game. However, as the years rolled on, her interests began to shift. The football craze was replaced by an infatuation with all things fashion and makeup. She became the embodiment of girlishness, a transformation that initially baffled and later amused the rest of you. The matches, which were once an arena for you all to bond over your shared love for the game, now seemed like a duty for her, a family commitment she fulfilled while mostly engrossed in her phone.

Amidst all this change, there were three constants that stood like pillars, holding up the spirit of your family’s connection to the football field—your dad, your eldest brother, and you. You remained the devoted trio, the ones who carried the torch of passion even as others moved on to different interests. Your dad’s voice continued to merge with the chants, your brother’s eyes remained locked on the ball’s every move, and you soaked in the atmosphere, cherishing the memories as they unfolded before you.

In many ways, the Albion was a mirror of your lives, reflecting the ebb and flow of time. It marked the passing years, the shifting priorities, and the evolution of your family dynamics. As the team battled on the pitch, you too navigated the journey of your lives, each match a chapter in the collective story that you shared.

When you turned 12, an opportunity you had long awaited finally arose—you could try out for the girls’ team at Albion. It was a chance to immerse yourself even deeper in the world that had shaped your upbringing. The girls’ team, although immensely popular, was fraught with challenges. The team often struggled with limited resources, and securing a spot on the roster was fiercely competitive. Despite the hurdles, you were determined to make your mark.

Multiple attempts were needed to earn your place on the team, a testament to the steep competition and the dedication required. The club, though underfunded and predominantly focused on the boys’ team, was a place of growth and transformation for you. Throughout your time there, you underwent a remarkable evolution in your playing style, transitioning from defense to attack.

In the initial stages, you believed that your place on the field was in goal, sheltered from the intense confrontations that often came with the front lines of the game. Being a goalie allowed you to focus on one clear objective: stopping the opposing team from scoring. It was a role that suited your aversion to confrontation and desire to contribute without being in the spotlight.

However, as you honed your skills and developed a deeper understanding of the game, your coaches began to notice your attributes. They saw in you a fast-paced player with a knack for accurate passes and a sharp eye for opportunities. Gradually, you transitioned from the backlines to the front, your role evolving to capitalize on your newfound abilities.

An unforgettable moment came during a match when you found yourself sidelined. A stronger goalie had been given the chance to protect the net, and it seemed like fate had other plans for you. Just as the game unfolded, misfortune struck—the star striker suffered a sprained ankle, leaving a void at the center forward position. With your teammates by your side, you assumed that one of them would step up to fill the gap.

To your astonishment, the coaches turned their eyes to you. The responsibility of leading the attack fell squarely on your shoulders. It was a moment that felt both exhilarating and intimidating. As you embraced your new role, the game took an unexpected turn. That match, the one where you were entrusted with the center forward position, marked a turning point in your journey.

The final whistle blew, and the score displayed a resounding 4:0 victory in favor of your team—with you netting a remarkable hat trick. It was a performance that left an indelible mark, a testament to your capabilities and the newfound passion that surged within you. From that moment onward, there was no doubt: you were a center forward.

During the tumultuous years of 17 to 19, when the threads of your family’s unity began to unravel, football emerged as your refuge. It was the sanctuary where you sought solace from the storms that were battering the foundations of your home. Amidst the chaos, you received a once-in-a-lifetime offer—a two-year loan transfer to Arsenal, a giant leap forward in your football journey. But that wasn’t the only challenge you faced; you decided to aim even higher and try out for the England U18 squad.

But the road to that dream was paved with obstacles, and rejection hit you hard. Unlike the other kids who were fortunate enough to receive a spot, your family’s financial constraints and commitments held you back. With limited means to facilitate the demanding training schedules and your parents’ firm belief in a solid education, the path to joining the U18 squad seemed like an insurmountable climb.

Still, you were determined to make the most of your opportunity at Arsenal. Commuting to London became a regular part of your life, and although you weren’t a regular starter, being a sub for the youth team kept the fire of your dreams alive. The echoes of your cleats on the field became a rhythmic reminder that your aspirations were worth the sacrifices you were making.

In the midst of this period, a familiar face emerged as a constant support. Jude, a friend who had been by your side since the days of diapers, became an anchor during this tumultuous phase. He and his younger brother, Jobe, had been selected for the England U18 squad—a success that both inspired and frustrated you. While you were thrilled for them, it was a reminder of the opportunities that eluded you due to circumstances beyond your control. Nevertheless, their achievements acted as a cushion against the sting of your own setbacks.

You and Jude had always shared a special bond, a connection that had grown stronger as you navigated the twists and turns of life together. It was a friendship that seemed unbreakable, a relationship built on a foundation of shared memories and mutual understanding. Yet, as fate would have it, your time away at England’s camp would become a turning point, reshaping the contours of your emotions.

In the midst of drills, practices, and long hours away from home, your perspective shifted. The camaraderie you had shared with Jude started to take on new hues. It was as if the spotlight had shifted, revealing feelings that had been waiting in the wings, yearning for their moment on the stage. The realization hit you like a bolt of lightning—it wasn’t just friendship that bound you two together anymore.

The long nights spent talking about football, sharing dreams, and laughing about the little things had sowed the seeds of something deeper. Your feelings had blossomed quietly, nourished by the unspoken moments that carried a touch of something more. The day came when you looked at Jude and saw not just a friend, but someone who stirred your heart in ways you hadn’t anticipated.

It wasn’t easy to come to terms with this shift, this change in the dynamics that had been woven into your lives since childhood. But in those moments of introspection, you realized that sometimes, the most meaningful journeys were the ones that led you to unexpected destinations.

The memory unfolded like a reel of precious moments, taking you back to a time when innocence mingled with the promise of what lay ahead. It was a day that had been marked with joy, hidden intentions, and the kind of emotions that only youth could amplify.

Jude had returned from his camp, a beacon of accomplishment and dreams, to a surprise party at his parents' house. As he stepped through the door, his eyes took in the decorations that adorned the living room—the streamers, the balloons, the festive atmosphere that awaited him. The room was alive with laughter, the chatter of friends and family, all gathered to celebrate his achievements.

*Amidst the crowd, his eyes locked onto you, a vision that seemed to shine brighter than everything else. Your face lit up with a radiant smile as you bounded towards him, arms outstretched in a hug that enveloped him in warmth. "Jude, welcome back!" you exclaimed, your excitement palpable.*

*He chuckled, returning the hug and taking in the familiar scent that was uniquely yours. "Thanks, Y/N. You didn't have to go through all this trouble, you know."*

*Your laugh was light, but your eyes held a knowing glint. "Trouble? Nah, it's all worth it to celebrate your success."*

*The surprise wasn't just in the decorations or the presents—it was in the way you seemed to radiate a special kind of affection. Your arms were laden with gifts, a display of generosity that caught him off guard. He knew the struggles you faced, the limited resources that often defined your choices, and yet here you were, offering tokens of your care and support.*

*He smiled gratefully, his heart touched by your gesture. "You really didn't have to do all this."*

*Your expression turned teasing. "Oh, come on, Jude. A little party never hurt anyone."*

*Throughout the night, the two of you exchanged subtle glances, a language only the two of you seemed to understand. Those glances held layers of unspoken emotions—friendship, understanding, and something deeper that seemed to stir in the air. It wasn't just the passing of time that had altered the way you saw each other. It was the transformation that adolescence brought—the realization that the feelings you had suppressed were now seeking to surface, too potent to be ignored.*

*As the hours wore on, he couldn't help but notice the way you had grown, your presence somehow more captivating than ever before. The red dress you wore seemed to accentuate every curve, every contour, as if it was tailor-made to captivate his attention. He had always seen you as beautiful, both inside and out, but now he was acutely aware of the woman you had become—a woman he wished he could have in a way that transcended friendship.*

*And as the night drew to a close, as the laughter began to ebb and the music faded into the background, he found himself grappling with emotions he had never dared to acknowledge. The longing in his gaze met the flicker of desire in your eyes, two souls standing on the precipice of something unknown, teetering between the comfort of familiarity and the allure of uncharted territories.*

*With the party winding down, the alcohol flowing freely, the lines between courage and inhibition blurred. The music's rhythm seemed to echo the cadence of his heartbeats as he finally mustered the courage to speak his truth. "Y/N," he slurred slightly, his voice tinged with a mixture of emotion and alcohol. "I've... I've always..."*

*You turned towards him, your eyes a mix of concern and curiosity. "What is it, Jude?"*

*He let out a deep breath, his words stumbling over one another. "I've always thought... I mean, I've always... liked you, Y/N. Not just as a friend, but... you know, more."*

*The weight of his confession hung in the air, a moment suspended in time. You looked at him, your heart racing in tandem with the beats of his. This was a revelation you had secretly hoped for but never quite expected.*

*A mixture of emotions crossed your features, but then you smiled, a tender expression that held a world of unspoken emotions. "Jude," you began softly, "I've felt the same way."*

*His eyes widened, as if he couldn't believe what he was hearing. The alcohol had stripped away his inhibitions, allowing his true feelings to surface. A mixture of relief, joy, and vulnerability washed over him, and he smiled, the weight of his secret finally lifted.*

*As the night drew to an end, you found yourself helping him navigate through the haze of alcohol-induced confusion. Guiding him to a seat, you chuckled softly. "You know, Jude, I think it's time to get you ready for bed."*

*He grinned sheepishly, his cheeks flushed with a mixture of embarrassment and happiness. "Yeah, I think you might be right."*

*With gentle care, you helped him remove his shoes and jacket, your fingers brushing against his skin in a way that sent shivers down his spine. As you guided him towards his room, his eyes met yours, a silent exchange of understanding passing between you. Despite the alcohol-induced haze, the truth had been spoken, and your hearts were now aligned in a way they had never been before.*

*As he settled into bed, he reached out, his fingers gently brushing against yours. "Thank you, Y/N," he whispered, his voice filled with sincerity.*

*You smiled softly, your heart brimming with emotion. "For what?"*

*"For being you. For always being there. And for making this night unforgettable."*

*You leaned down, placing a soft kiss on his forehead. "Sleep well, Jude."*

*And as you turned to leave, the glow of his smile was the last thing you saw before closing the door, leaving you with the knowledge that the path ahead was one that you would walk together, united by a bond that had been years in the making and a confession that was long overdue.*

And from that moment on, the once unspoken feelings between you and Jude transformed your relationship into an unbreakable bond, seemingly unshaken by the currents of life. The subtle exchanges, the lingering glances, and the tender gestures evolved into full-fledged date nights, each moment etching a new chapter in your shared story. Your studies, once your primary focus, now had to share space with the whirlwind of emotions that came with being Jude's girlfriend.

It was a transition that felt as natural as the sun rising every morning. What had started as a friendship now blossomed into a romance that seemed to defy all odds. You found yourself immersed in the world he occupied, his dreams and aspirations becoming yours too. And in return, he was your anchor, the steadfast presence that held you steady through every twist and turn.

It was Jude who convinced you to take a chance on your own dreams, urging you to try out for the U21s group in England. His unwavering belief in you became the catalyst that spurred you to take the leap. His parents' financial support opened doors that had once been closed due to limitations beyond your control.

When the day of the tryouts arrived, you were a whirlwind of nerves and excitement. The magnitude of the opportunity weighed on you, the fear of letting down those who believed in you almost suffocating. The field seemed like a stage, and your every move was under scrutiny.

But as you stepped onto that field, something within you ignited. The whispers of doubt were drowned out by the beat of your heart, the passion that had driven you all these years. The ball felt like an extension of your being, and the rush of the game swept you into a current of determination. You gave it your all, every sprint, every pass, every moment of perfect synchronization with your teammates.

When it was over, and you caught your breath, you dared to look around. The faces of the selectors held expressions that revealed nothing. The uncertainty was almost unbearable, the minutes stretching on like hours. And then, the moment of truth arrived.

"You're in."

Those words, simple yet laden with meaning, sent an electric jolt through you. The elation that followed was as overwhelming as the realization that you had just secured your place on the U21s team. The sweat on your brow mixed with tears of joy as the weight of your achievement sank in.

As you walked off the field, a sense of pride and gratitude filled your heart. Jude's smile awaited you, a mirror of your own feelings. He enveloped you in a hug, whispering words of congratulations and pride. In that moment, you knew that your journey, both in football and in love, was one that was woven with the threads of determination, support, and an unyielding bond that would carry you through every triumph and challenge that lay ahead.

(Y/N's story)

As the sun's gentle rays pierce through your curtains, illuminating your room with a soft and golden glow, you feel a surge of excitement coursing through your veins. The anticipation of the day ahead hangs in the air, almost tangible. Your eyes immediately gravitate to the framed number 7 England Women's National Team jersey hanging proudly on your bedroom wall, a visual testament to your hard work and dedication. Amidst the posters of football legends like David Beckham and Messi, this jersey holds a special place, now more than ever. It symbolizes the culmination of countless training sessions, sacrifices, and dreams that have led you to be selected as a representative of your nation in the upcoming Women's World Cup.

A year had passed since the pivotal moment when you secured your place on the U21s team, a year that had been marked by leaps and bounds of progress. The pitch had become your canvas, the game your art form, and every match was a testament to your growth as a player.

Your journey hadn’t just stopped at joining the U21s—your career had taken on a life of its own. Arsenal had become your home, the field your sanctuary, and your skills had found a permanent place on the team. The path you had chosen was no longer just a dream; it was the reality you lived every day, a life woven with the threads of passion and sweat.

But there was a twist in this tale that you could have never anticipated, a twist that had elevated your achievements to a level that seemed beyond comprehension. The news that you had been chosen for the women’s senior team left you speechless, the gravity of the honor almost overwhelming. To think that you, a girl who had started her journey with a love for the game, were now a part of the pinnacle of football in your country—it was a realization that was as surreal as it was electrifying.

What made this achievement even more poignant was the synchronicity that seemed to be at play. Just as you received your call-up, Jude had received one too—for the men’s senior team. It was as if the universe had conspired to align your destinies, two childhood friends turned lovers now representing England on the world stage. The thought was as thrilling as it was humbling.

Just as you're lost in your thoughts, your bedroom door creaks open, and there stands Jude, your boyfriend, with a knowing smile on his face. In his hands, he carries a steaming cup of tea. The mug, adorned with the bold England colors, proudly displays your name in elegant lettering. It's a thoughtful gesture that warms your heart and brings a grateful smile to your lips. As you reach out to take the mug, your fingers brush against his, a small but deeply meaningful connection. The unspoken support and love between you and Jude have been a pillar of strength throughout this journey, and his presence now is a reminder of the incredible support system you have both on and off the pitch.

"How you feeling, dove?" Jude's voice is gentle, carrying a mix of concern and understanding.

"I'm alright," you reply, your attempt at reassurance tinged with a hint of tension.

"You don't have to lie to me, you know," he says softly, stepping further into the room. His eyes meet yours, a quiet understanding passing between you.

"Believe me, I was—" He pauses, searching for the right words, as if trying to bridge the gap between his own experiences and your current emotions.

"I know," you interject, a small smile playing at the corners of your lips. "M'fine. Just a little nervous, that's all—" Your voice trails off, the admission hanging in the air.

"It's a big day," Jude finishes, his tone a mixture of sympathy and encouragement. He moves closer, his presence a comforting anchor in the midst of your jumbled thoughts.

You take a deep breath, your eyes briefly flickering to the number 7 jersey on the wall, a tangible reminder of what lies ahead. The weight of the day settles on your shoulders, and you feel a wave of nerves wash over you.

Jude reaches out, his fingers gently brushing against yours. "Remember why you're doing this," he says, his voice steady. "You're representing not just yourself, but every dreamer out there who's ever kicked a ball and dared to believe."

His words resonate deeply, a reminder of the significance of this moment beyond the pressure and the nerves. You meet his gaze, a silent connection that speaks volumes.

"I believe in you," Jude adds, his voice unwavering. "And I'll be cheering for you every step of the way."

A genuine smile finally graces your lips, and you squeeze his hand in gratitude. In this small exchange of words and gestures, you find a renewed sense of determination. The nerves are still there, but they're accompanied by a fire that burns brighter, fueled by the belief that you can rise to the occasion.

As your gaze shifts from the vibrant mug with your name in England’s colors to the jersey that stands as a testament to your journey, you feel a surge of determination mingled with nervous energy. It’s a feeling that you’re accustomed to by now, a reminder that every significant moment comes with its own mix of anticipation and excitement. But as you stand in your room, surrounded by reminders of the path you’ve walked, you know that this is where you’re meant to be.

Jude’s voice breaks through your thoughts, offering a comfort that only he can provide. “He’d be proud, you know.”

You turn to face him, your expression a mixture of gratitude and emotions you struggle to articulate. “Jude…”

He cuts you off gently, understanding the unspoken words that hang in the air. “I know you don’t want to mention him, but you have to believe that he would be proud of you.”

Your voice is barely a whisper as you admit, “I wish he was here.”

Jude’s gaze softens, his eyes holding a depth of empathy that only someone who truly understands can offer. “Y/N, he is here,” he says, his hand gently resting over your heart. “Your brother lives on in you, in your memories, and in the choices you make every day.”

The weight of his words settles over you, a reminder that the journey you’re on is not just yours alone. The dreams that had been ignited by a childhood hero had been stoked by your brother’s unwavering support, even if it was from a distance. As you stand on the precipice of another milestone, his memory serves as a guiding light, a reminder that your journey is as much about honoring the past as it is about embracing the future.

And so, with the weight of memories and the strength of your emotions, you step forward. The nerves still flutter in your stomach, but they’re accompanied by a resolute spirit and a heart full of love. As you make your way towards the field, you know that your brother’s presence is a part of you, propelling you forward, whispering encouragement in the wind, and watching over you as you chase your dreams.

“Right. No more soppy things,” Jude interjects with a playful grin, his voice lighthearted. “My girl is about to go to Australia and perform in the biggest competition in the world.”

You chuckle, your nerves momentarily forgotten in the face of his cheeky comment. “Wow, no pressure at all."

He nudges you gently, his confidence in you evident in his gaze. “For you, it’ll be a breeze.”

Your heart swells at his unwavering faith, and the affection in your next words is genuine and heartfelt. “I love you."

His response is swift and sincere, his voice carrying a depth of emotion that makes your heart skip a beat. “I love you too.”

As you bask in the warmth of your connection, the aroma of your dad’s pancakes wafts up the stairs, a reminder of the bustling life that surrounds you. Your dad’s voice rings out from downstairs, adding a touch of humor to the moment. “If you lot want pancakes, you better have them now because Eden is eating them all!”

Eden, your sister, once the quiet girl who kept herself occupied during your training nights, had now taken on a new chapter of life. Pregnant with her second child, her journey had led her down a different path—one that you couldn’t help but marvel at.

As you make your way downstairs, the scent of pancakes mingling with the laughter of your family, you’re enveloped in a sense of belonging. The love that threads through every interaction is a constant reminder that your journey is supported by the pillars of those who love you—each member of your family contributing to the mosaic of your life in their own special way.

And as you sit down to enjoy a meal together, the anticipation of the competition still lingers, but it’s accompanied by a sense of togetherness that soothes your nerves. With your loved ones by your side, your journey takes on an added layer of meaning, and you’re reminded that no matter where life takes you, the bonds that tie you to your family, to Jude, and to your own dreams, will always remain unbreakable.

You took a deep breath before making your way down to join your family at the dinner table. You smiled as you greeted everyone, but a subtle feeling of insecurity gnawed at you.

As the conversation began, your brother Rowan asked, "So, Y/N, how's your football season going? Still scoring those goals?"

Your face lit up, "Definitely! I've been training hard, and we have some big games coming up."

Your brother Marley chimed in with a skeptical tone, "I mean, isn't women's football way easier than men's? It's not like the competition is as tough."

Jude, sitting beside you, felt the urge to speak up but hesitated, knowing that you might not want him to intervene.

You decided to subtly address your family's misconceptions, "Actually, Marley, Arsenal is part of the Women's Super League (WSL), which is a very competitive league."

Your sister Eden raised an eyebrow, "But it's not like the Premier League, right?"

Just then, your dad walked in, and his presence seemed to shift the atmosphere in the room. He looked at you, his expression filled with understanding and support.

"Now will all of you stop getting her down," he said firmly, addressing the family. "It's a big day. She's got a lot on her plate, and I'm sure none of you will understand the amount of pressure she is under—"

Jude took the opportunity to change the subject, diverting the conversation to a less tense topic, like Australia as a whole. The discussion carried on for a while, shifting away from your football endeavors.

As dinner came to an end and you helped your dad with the dishes, you began to speak again, "thanks dad,, it's okay if they don't get—"

"No, don't," he interrupted gently. "Ever since your brother—" He paused, his voice faltering for a moment. "Ever since then, football has become like a swearword. You're the only one who shows me the light that comes with it. Your siblings blame it for what happened to Noah—" He paused again, struggling to continue.

Your eyes welled up with emotion, and you reached out to put a hand on your dad's shoulder.

"But don't listen, alright?" he continued, his voice stronger. "You're brilliant. And we'll be cheering you on—even if they don't get it."

Tears filled your eyes as you hugged your dad tightly, feeling the weight of his words and the immense support he offered. In that moment, you realized that even though your family might not fully understand, you had your dad by your side, standing as a pillar of encouragement.

@skynews

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@skynews The women world cup is finally here, with many of us at home hoping that this moment at the euro's last year could potentially be recreated. Can the women bring it home once again?. Link in our bio for the full story

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fifaupdates This team was already brilliant, and now with new players such as Morrison, our new team is going to be so fun!

garyliniker with names like morrison added to this list, this should be a breeze for our girls. Come on lionesses 👊👊👊

As the car sped down the road, you found yourself lost in thought. The events of the evening replayed in your mind, the ups and downs of family interactions leaving you with a mix of emotions. The comforting presence of Jude beside you helped ease some of the tension, but you couldn’t shake off the unease completely.

Jude glanced at you from time to time, sensing your introspection. “You know, sometimes families don’t always understand the things that matter most to us. But that doesn’t diminish their significance.”

You nodded, appreciating his wisdom. “You’re right. I just wish they could see how much football means to me.”

Jude smiled warmly, his gaze focused on the road. “They might come around eventually. It takes time for people to change their perspective.”

You leaned your head against the window, taking in the passing scenery. “I hope so.”

After a while, Jude turned on the radio, filling the car with a soft melody. The atmosphere shifted, and you found yourself gradually relaxing. The tension that had been gripping your shoulders began to loosen, and you exchanged a small smile with Jude.

As you approached the airport, you felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The upcoming football event was a big deal, and you were determined to give it your all. Jude parked the car, and you both gathered your bags. Walking towards the entrance, you felt a reassuring squeeze of Jude’s hand, grounding you in the present moment.

I’m going to miss you,” he said, his voice genuine.

You smiled, touched by his sentiment. “I’ll miss you too. But I’ll make sure to give my best out there, for you, and for myself.”

Jude chuckled, “I know you will.”

At the security checkpoint, you turned to face him. “Promise me you’ll take care of yourself while I’m gone.”

Jude’s eyes softened as he cupped your cheek. “Of course. And you better come back with a victory to celebrate.”

You both shared a lingering kiss before reluctantly parting ways. As you walked towards your gate, you stole a glance back at Jude, feeling a sense of gratitude for the person who had always stood by you.

(Y/N's story)

Just as you were about to enter the security gate, a familiar figure caught your eye. Leah Williamson, a fellow player from Arsenal, was making her way towards you with a warm smile on her face. She reached you in no time, enveloping you in a tight hug.

“Y/N! How have you been?” Leah’s genuine enthusiasm radiated as she pulled away from the hug.

You grinned, feeling an immediate sense of comfort in her presence. “Leah! It’s so good to see you. I’ve been good, just getting ready for the big event.”

Leah chuckled, giving you a playful nudge. “Of course you are. You always give a hundred percent.”

As you and Leah caught up on each other’s lives, Jude approached, and a warm exchange of greetings ensued. “Hey, Jude..” Leah winked at Jude, playfully adopting a protective stance. “Don’t you worry. I’ll make sure she doesn’t get into too much trouble.”

Jude laughed, clearly reassured by Leah’s presence. “Thanks, Leah. You’re the best.”

As the time to say goodbye approached, Jude gave you one final hug and a lingering kiss. “Go out there and give it your all, Y/N. I’ll be cheering you on from here.”

You nodded, holding back the emotions that threatened to surface. “I will. And I’ll be back before you know it.”

Jude squeezed your hand, offering his support one last time before turning to Leah. “Look out for her, alright?”

Leah grinned, her tone filled with confidence. “Don’t worry, Jude. She’s in good hands.”

With a final wave, Jude headed back to the car while you and Leah made your way towards the departure gate. As you walked side by side, you couldn’t help but feel grateful for Leah’s friendship and the bond you had formed during your time at Arsenal.

(Leah's story)