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Pedri POV
"So please, make sure that Mom and Dad don't bombard her with too many questions, and make her feel comfortable. She has Kiki and Indigo, but she's also next to you," I instruct Fernando.

"Yeah, yeah. It'll be fine. Don't worry, just focus on the game," my brother sighs. "I mean it. I don't want her to feel uncomfortable," I say. "I know. By the way, what did you tell Mom and Dad? Just that I won't spill anything," my brother says.

"That she's a friend who wanted to come watch a game," I say. "So you haven't mentioned that you're dating her?" he asks. I shake my head. "No, I don't think 'I'm dating her because I had a bet' is the right way to go about it."

"This is about more than just a bet now, isn't it?" my brother asks. I nod. "Yes. I truly love her."

"Wow. Can you repeat that? I've never heard you say this," Fernando laughs. I chuckle. "I love her."

"But you could tell that to Mom and Dad, right?" he asks. I shake my head. "I'll do that when it's official and I'm present. This afternoon she's meeting them while I'm on the field."

"You do have a point there. Well, it'll all work out," he says. I smile and grab my things. "See you later."

"See you later. Drive safely," Fernando says, and I walk out the front door. I toss my sports bag onto the back seat and get behind the wheel. I quickly drive to the training complex where we all gather.

"Pedri boy," Ferran grins as I arrive. I smile back at him, and we walk inside. We'll have a team lunch first, then a tactical discussion, and finally, we'll take the bus to the stadium.

"Are you ready for this?" Alejandro asks when we cross paths. "Born ready," I grin. "Good to hear."

I enter the canteen with the guys, and some of the players are already there, including Gavi.

"Hermano," I smile and give him a pat on the shoulder. "Good to see you," he smiles back.

"How's the bet going?" Ansu asks as he joins us. "Fine," I reply casually. I don't want the guys to realize I'm falling for Sofia.

"How's the shy Sofia doing?" Gavi grins. "She's doing well. She's getting more comfortable," I say. "And still haven't been with anyone else?" he asks, and I shake my head. "You didn't expect that, did you?"

"Not really. It's been over two weeks for you now," he laughs, and the rest of the guys join in. I nod softly. "It's not ideal, indeed."

Then, specific meals are distributed for everyone, and we eat together.

After lunch, it's time for the strategy meeting. Everyone gathers, and Xavi starts his presentation. He greets everyone and begins with a few announcements.

The air is charged with anticipation, and the entire team listen carefully to every word of Xavi.

Xavi's voice was measured, his tone confident as he outlined the strategy. I admired his ability to convey complex ideas with such clarity. He is a true maestro on and off the field.

"Remember, we want to dominate possession," Xavi emphasized, highlighting the hallmark of Barcelona's play. My eyes met Xavi's, and I nodded, acknowledging the importance of controlling the game's tempo.

As Xavi delved into the intricate details, I couldn't help but marvel at the way the manager's passion for the club and its style of play still shone through. It was as if he had never left the pitch, only now he was guiding us from the sidelines.

I mentally absorbed every word, recognizing that this was a rare opportunity to learn from one of the game's greats. I felt a deep sense of pride and responsibility wearing the Barcelona shirt, and I was determined to implement Xavi's wisdom on the pitch.

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