Conflicted heart

Chapter 21: world cup final

The World Cup final was a sight to behold, a culmination of the teams' hard-fought journey to reach the pinnacle of the sport. As the players gathered in the tunnel, Ona couldn't help but notice the laser focus in Lucy's eyes. She tried to smile at her best friend, but Lucy's unwavering concentration on the task at hand made it clear that it was all business.

The game began, and the intensity on the field was palpable. It was a tight, evenly matched contest, with both teams displaying their skill and determination. In a moment of brilliance, Spain scored first with a stunning goal from Olga Carmona, sneaking the ball past Mary Earps at the far post. Ona celebrated with her teammates, the cheers and jubilation in stark contrast to the focused resolve on Lucy's face.

As the final whistle blew, and Spain's bench erupted onto the pitch in celebration, Ona climbed off the pile of celebrating players. She couldn't help but glance over at Lucy, who stood there with tears streaming down her face.

The sight of her best friend in such agony tugged at Ona's heartstrings. She walked over to Lucy, wanting to be there for her in this difficult moment. As Ona approached, she reached out to offer comfort, but Lucy turned and snapped at her, "Just... not now, Ona."

Ona frowned, her eyes reflecting a mixture of sympathy and frustration. She knew that Lucy was deeply upset, and it was hard to see her like this. Ona didn't give up, though. She followed Lucy trying to hug her to offer her comfort as Lucy pushed Ona as she watched Lucy go over to her team still crying. away as the team gathered for their losing speech.

Lucy listened to the captain's words, her face still etched with agony and sadness as Lucy was dealing with her own emotions, and she needed space.

As the post-match ceremony commenced and players from both teams received their medals, Ona couldn't shake the image of Lucy, sitting alone on the bench, tears streaming down her face. It was a stark contrast to the joyous celebration happening around them.

After receiving her own medal, Ona decided she couldn't leave her best friend in this state. She made her way over to Lucy, who looked up through tear-filled eyes as Ona approached. The sight of her friend with such raw emotion tugged at Ona's heartstrings.

Without saying a word, Ona pulled Lucy into a warm, tight hug. She could feel Lucy's body trembling as the sobs wracked her. Ona held her best friend close, offering silent support.

Lucy's voice quivered as she spoke through her tears, "I should have done more, Ona. I let everyone down."

Ona gently rubbed Lucy's back, her voice filled with reassurance. "Lucy, you were incredible out there. You played your heart out. You can't carry this loss on your shoulders alone."

As the tears continued to flow, Lucy looked at Ona with a mixture of vulnerability and gratitude. "I just wanted to win so badly, for the team, for our country... for myself."

Ona continued to hold Lucy, offering the comfort of her presence. "You are an amazing player, Lucy. And you're an even more incredible person. This loss doesn't define you. You've made us all proud."

Lucy's sobs began to subside, and she leaned into Ona's embrace, resting her head on Ona's shoulder. Ona lovingly brushed her lips against Lucy's forehead, her voice soft and affectionate, "Mi Bonita, you're not alone in this. We're in it together, through the highs and the lows. You're my best friend, and I'm so proud of you."

The medal ceremony continued around them, but for that moment, Ona and Lucy shared a connection that transcended the game. They leaned on each other, providing the support and comfort that only true friends could offer, and through it all, their friendship remained unbreakable.