Finding Love

Mateo

"Everyday I am met with new surprises but this one seems to be my favorite"

Rushing out of my hotel I knew I was late and would get a mouthful from coach. I jumped in the car and apologized to the team.

"Pretty boy why does it always take you a million years to get ready?" Antony asked with an irraitied face. I didn't think we were that late it was only 7:50 and Nobu was not far. 

"Stop your crying Antony, at least he made it" Vinicius said as he gave me a smile and went back to focusing on his phone. 

I was more than grateful too Neymar for advocating that I attend this dinner. As we spend our time in America our management team found it best we broadcast to create buzz for the game. 

I wasn't opposed to the idea but getting back in the media was scary. Since our last game I kind of fell off the face of social media.  

"I've heard good ratings about this place" Vinius told us to break the silence in the car. Neymar and him dived into conversation about what they would order but my mind drifted to this new deal. 

I had no problem being interviewed but having to deal with comments trying to tell me who I am was not something I looked forward to. The media is quick to manipulate what you say and make any narrative good or bad. 

In less than 20 minutes we pulled up to Nobu. I told these idiots it wouldn't take long and as they all hoped out the car, I paused noticing the paparazzi waiting outside.

"Souza lets go, why are you sitting in the car like a duck" Atony joked as he stepped outside.  I Ignored him and shut the door, sending Neymar and coach a message saying I needed a minute. 

I was acting like a pussy but I had to gather my thoughts before going in. It has been a while since I've shown my face to the public and with this talk of broadcasting I got scared.

With the world cup coming up fast reality started to hit and I was not prepared. Gathering my thoughts I stepped out the car and hurried inside. Ignoring the constant questions from the paparazzi, I walked inside the restaurant and asked where my table was. 

The lady led me to back and I heard noise. I walked inside and apologized for my lateness, Coach gave me a look and I had a smile on my face trying to dismiss his concerned stare. 

Everyone seated at the table continued to converse as I greeted our host at the entrance. Walking down the line my heart stopped when I saw her. 

Right in front of me was Rosalie Wright, the women who has been on my mind for days. I couldn't compose myself and kept a blank face. She spoke to me but I didn't hear any words. 

I was too distracted by her lips and beautiful face to register what was going on. Snapping back into reality she pulled away from my hand and I turned to find my seat embarrassed by my actions. 

Dinner proceed fairly well expect for when I looked up and saw Rosalie and Vinicius conversation laughing. What could be so funny that her entire face lights up like that? I lost my appetite and started picking at the food. 

I noticed Rosalie didn't order much off the menu and limited herself to a strawberry daiquiri with dumplings. I was so fixated on her I didn't realize Neymar was looking at me from the opposite direction. 

He had a grin on his face and I knew then I was obvious. Changing my demeanor I decided to get this dinner out the way. 

"Mr. Costa what exactly are you hoping to do with this partnership" I asked in a dry manner

The table got quiet as everyone turn to Mr. Costa the man gave me a wide smile before answering, "I am glad you ask that Mateo! As you can see I want to broadcast the world cup and bring in an international audience to the company. There is no better way than partnering with one of the best teams in the world" he said raising his glass towards me.

I raised mine as well and took a sip. "Let me rephrase Mr. Costa" I said clearing my throat. "What do we gain from this partnership? You said we are one of the best teams so what are you offering us" I asked the man knowing I wasn't much of a fan towards him. 

Mr. Costa was not the type of businessmen who do things for others benefits, I could tell this was a personal gain and I was simply not agreeing with it. 

"Well to your dismay this partnership for one could boast your popularity as many people are not happy with your return" he rudely stated attacking me with a sensitive topic. 

Before I could say anything else Coach interrupted the conversation "Thank you Mr. Costa for inviting us here. The offer still stands as me and my team have to consider this amazing opportunity" he said to change the mood in the room

I was suddenly tired of this game and ready to go home. I noticed Rosalie look at me with sincere concern and I got up from my chair exiting the room. What Mr. Costa said was low and I wasn't going to let some power hungry man affect my mood. 

Walking into the waiting room between the bathrooms I sat down on the coach and let out a breath. Today has not been my day I mumbled to myself.

"I'm sorry about my boss" a soft voice spoke out to me as I had my head laying on my knees. I looked up and was shocked to see Rosalie in front of me... 

"Um, what he said was rude and as his employee I do apologize on his behalf" she said so professionally. I didn't understand why she was here talking to me instead of that baster but he probably sends all his workers to clean up his mess. 

"No need to apologize sweetheart" I said giving her a fake smile. I wasn't in the mood for pity and was ready to head back to the hotel. 

Keeping my eyes on her as my head was laying on my knees, I noticed she was pacing back and forth in thought. She looked conflicted and I began to feel bad.

"Listen, I accept the apology you don-" 

"Do you want to head out of here with me" she asked in a rushed tone. I stared at her confused, turned on by her abruptness. 

"Never mind it was a stupid question. I'm going to go back" before she could walk off I sat up and grabbed her wrist. She looked me up and down with her brown eyes and I became lost again in them.

"I'll take you up on that offer" I said quietly. I didn't want to deal with my teammates or the reality of soccer; taking this moment to live. We both snuck out the back and she tossed the keys to me as we hoped in the car.