What If Just...

22 Vivian

Aiden's so called stadium is a football field with a relatively small number of seats.

"I need to change. Will you wait in the car or will you get out?" the guy asks, taking out his bag from the back seat.

"I'd rather go out," I reply.

Of the whole stack of books, I take the thinnest one with me - so that it's not hard to carry.

"Don't go too far, 'kay?"

"Okay," I smile in response.

I decide to take a seat on the terrace in the shade of the trees - the field is perfectly visible from here (I don't know why I need to see something there if I'm going to read).

Some players have already changed their clothes and are waiting for the rest.

All men are very different, but they are united by one passion - football, and for the sake of it they are ready to come every Sunday in any weather and under any circumstances.

I once watched a match with my dad, I know the most basic rules, but I can't say that I'm into the game much.

When I look up from the book again, Aiden is already on the field.
I can't help but note that the red uniform suits him very well.

He notices me and I quickly look down.

After a few minutes, the game starts, and I can't concentrate because of the noise.

Football here is very different from football in my world: shouts, reproaches, swearing, conflicts, smiles, jokes, hugs - such a wide range of emotions in a minimum span of time.

I have long abandoned the book, watching the game as a fascinating series.

Aiden takes an active part in everything, though always tries to get justice, even if not with the most censorious words.

I have never seen him so animated - he is in his element here.

When the game ends, little boys and girls run out onto the field.
As I understand, now they will be taught the basics.

Aiden volunteers.

What a contrast between how he just was among his friends and teammates, and how calm and patient he is with the children.

Realization hits me that he probably has to treat me like a child too.
In any case, it's noticeable that many emotions are suppressed in my presence.

Does that mean he can't be himself with me?

Someone's familiar voice brings me out of my thoughts.

"Hey there! I'm Leo, I was driving the night we found you," says a blond-haired, blue-eyed guy with a charming smile.

"Nice to meet you! I'm Vivian," I try to greet him just as openly.

He looks around, as if afraid that someone will disturb us or hear something.

"You've been on our side for quite a while. Have you settled in yet?"

"I don't think I can say for sure, but I'm definitely in the process of discovering a new world", I share timidly.

"This is the first time I've seen someone watching a game with a book in their hands," the guy chuckles kindly.

There is something about Leo that immediately makes you forget about any awkwardness.

"I never managed to read - you are so noisy," I accuse without hesitation, half-jokingly.

"What are you talking about? We are the quietest and calmest team in the whole neighborhood!" he exclaims seriously, convincing me otherwise.