How she manages to also make it this delicious is beyond me. My usual tame porridge is quickly becoming my least favourite breakfast, even though that’s been my go-to for a long time.
Her meals are simply better in every way.
When we’re all done with breakfast, I’ll clean up the kitchen as she packs up her stuff before we drive together to the arena.
When we get there, we say our goodbyes for the day, with me fighting the urge to do something stupid like kiss her cheek or grab her hand.
Every day, the impulse grows stronger, but I restrain myself.
I’ll do my workouts and look for her in the stands whenever we’re out on the field. Dean will tease me about my obsession with her, but I don’t find it in me to be bothered by it.
I know I’m in trouble with this woman, but the least I can do is look for her.
When the workday is done, we’ll meet up, go back to my apartment, and enjoy dinner together with Harriet.
Then we’ll finish off the evening with a movie or playing board games before Lily heads down to her apartment for the night.
On Thursday, we meet up for our interview at midday, and as expected, Lily comes prepared.
We begin with nerves and mental toughness, and I quickly realise I’ve never really thought much about it, but I can see how it would be beneficial to do so.
Lily is bright and to the point, prompting me to reflect on aspects of my performance I have never considered before.
Usually, I don’t get nervous unless it’s a game that determines qualification or a championship, where it feels like everything is on the line during those ninety minutes.
Those games energise me, pushing my teammates and me to go the extra mile and give our all on the field.
During the more regular games, I don’t get the same adrenaline rush, but it’s always a thrill to walk onto the field,hear the crowd’s cheers, and experience the atmosphere of thousands of eager football fans.
Which is why I’m confused when I walk out into the stadium, full of nerves I don’t usually experience.
My whole body is buzzing with excitement, but there’s no denying the nerves there as well.
I do this several times a week, at home or away, and I’ve never felt this level of nerves in a regular game.
Then I remember something special about today’s game.
It’s the first game since coming back to London, with Lily in the stands, watching every minute.
A stupid part of my brain wants to seek her out in the crowd, but I know that’s an impossible task.
I’ve had family and friends come and support me— mainly my older brother—Joseph, but it’s been a while since someone was here cheering for me.
Harriet and her husband sometimes tag along as well.
Having Lily here sends a rush of anticipation through my body, and I’m determined to do my part to give her the best entertainment a football game can provide.
Chapter 10
Lily
It’s halfway through the game, and I decide to explore the shops and look for some souvenirs to kill some time while I wait for the next period.
Sebastian’s team leads 1-0, and watching them play has been exhilarating.
European football is very different from American football, yet I find myself enjoying it a lot.
The game is easy to follow, with few complicated rules. Each team has eleven players out on the field, and they’re trying to put the ball in the net, simple as that.
