Chapter 5: nala makes everything better

776 26 0
                                    

The morning after the tense encounter with Alexia was filled with a sense of unease for Nora. She couldn't shake the memory of the athlete's harsh words from the previous day. Determined to find a way to bridge the gap between them, she decided to start the day with a visit to Mapi's room, much like she had done the day before.

Nora burst into the room with her usual enthusiasm, leaping onto Mapi's bed. "Wake up, Mapi! It's a new day, and we have lots to do!"

Mapi, still groggy from sleep, smiled weakly. "Nora, you're relentless in the mornings."

But before their playful banter could continue, the door to Alexia's room swung open once again. This time, Alexia, though clearly still annoyed, appeared less agitated than the previous day.

"Seriously, Nora? It's early," Alexia grumbled, her tone less harsh than before. She glanced at Mapi, who had given her a reassuring look, urging her to be more understanding.

Nora frowned, her lip quivering in response to Alexia's reprimand. She was on the verge of tears, feeling the weight of the tension between them.

As Nora left Mapi's room, she couldn't help but feel a sense of isolation. She wandered through the apartment, unsure of what to do next. It was then that she noticed a furry presence at her feet. Alexia's dog, Nala, had come to investigate the commotion.

Nora knelt down and scooped Nala into her arms. The dog, sensing her sadness, nuzzled against her chest, offering a comforting presence. Nora couldn't help but smile through her tears. It was a small but meaningful connection, a reminder of the warmth and love that existed even in the midst of tension.

Nora returned to the living room with Nala nestled in her lap. She felt a bit better, the dog's presence providing a sense of solace. Mapi, who had joined her, noticed the change in Nora's demeanor.

"You know," Mapi began, "Alexia is going through a tough time right now. The injury and the loss have hit her hard. She's not always like this."

Nora nodded, her heart softening as she held Nala close. "I understand, Mapi. I just wish I could help in some way."

Mapi placed a reassuring hand on Nora's shoulder. "You being here means a lot to both of us. Just give her some time. She'll come around."

Nora appreciated Mapi's wisdom and understanding. She knew that building bridges took time and patience. With Nala in her lap and Mapi by her side, Nora was determined to find a way to connect with Alexia, even in the face of adversity.

Lying in her bed, Alexia stared at the ceiling, lost in thought. Her knee was wrapped up, a constant reminder of the injury that had derailed her career and the Champions League final that had slipped through her fingers. She knew she was supposed to be focusing on recovery, but the weight of defeat and frustration pressed heavily on her.

As she lay there, her phone buzzed with a message. It was from Mapi. Alexia picked it up and read the words on the screen. Mapi had sent a message acknowledging Alexia's anger and frustration but also urging her not to take it out on Nora. Alexia sighed, realizing that she had let her emotions get the best of her.

With a mixture of annoyance and curiosity, she scrolled through her social media feed and saw the picture that had prompted Mapi's message. It was a snapshot of Nora and Nala cuddling on the couch, their expressions filled with contentment. The sight of Nala, her faithful companion, seemingly choosing Nora over her made Alexia groan in mock indignation.

"Traitor," Alexia muttered under her breath, her voice tinged with amusement.

She knew it was irrational to feel jealous of a dog, but in that moment of vulnerability, Nala's perceived betrayal felt like another layer of frustration. She couldn't help but feel like everything was slipping away from her – her team, her career, and even the companionship of her loyal dog.

With a sigh, Alexia set her phone aside and closed her eyes, attempting to push away the negative emotions that had consumed her. She needed time to heal, not only physically but also emotionally. As she lay there, she couldn't help but reflect on the challenges that lay ahead and the uncertain path she was on. Little did she know that the days and weeks to come would bring unexpected twists and opportunities for growth, both on and off the field.

Forbidden love: a Alexia putellas story Where stories live. Discover now