The secrets of silence

1

"Ahhhh I've been called up Millie!" I squeal, waving my phone in the air.

Millie is the one I've bonded most with since I've started training with the seniors. I mean, I'm still 18 so I haven't trained too often with them but when I have it's been great and everyone's been so kind.

I guess it helps that Millie always gives me a lift back home from training since we live so close to each other.

"Well done Em, I'm so proud!" She squeals back.

This is my first senior call up and I can't wait. We've got European qualifiers this camp and I'm so excited to be a part of it, even if I won't play a lot.

"What's that? The kid got in?" Sam asks, overhearing our conversation.

"Yeah." I blush, looking down at my feet now.

"Well done superstar." She says whilst wrapping her arms around my body and lifting me up like a trophy.

—
"Mills what do I need to bring?" I ask her on the phone the night before we leave.

"Literally just bring some pyjamas, maybe a few casual clothes, your wash stuff. Just anything you feel is necessary." She replies.

"Okay-"

"Boots and shin pads you need. Don't want you pulling a Tooney now do we?" She laughs.

"Thanks Mills, you're really helping me here, I'm very grateful for you."

"Ah don't worry 'bout that kid, I'm here for you. You're a lovely person so I am glad you're a close friend." She smiles, still evidently packing her bag.

"I can't wait for tomorrow. I mean, more than half of the people there I have never met. That's so thrilling, but I'm also kinda nervous." I admit, becoming shyer at this thought.

"I'm sure they will love you Em, they're a lovely bunch and you've always got me, Jess, Niamh and Fran." She replies, hoping that the girls will make me feel welcome.

"Okay, I'm just like not even sure I'm good enough yet. I've stolen someone's place havent I?" I ask her concerned.

"Not stolen. You've earned it." She smiles, "now get some rest. I'm picking you up at 8:30 with the rest of the Chelsea girls."

"Bye Mills." I wave off, ending the call.

—
"Morning." I yawn to everyone in the car.

"Awh bless, the kids still tired." Jess laughs.

"Gowan, have a little rest if you need. We've got like 3 hours till we get there." Millie says, so that's why we needed to leave so early. I didn't realise how far away this place was.

"Here, you can rest your head on my shoulder." Niamh offers as she is sitting next to me in the back.

"Thanks Niamhy." I yawn again, placing my head on her shoulder and falling asleep.

As we arrive at St George's Park, Millie wakes me up so I don't miss the experience of the first time at arriving in the place all footballers dream of.

"Woah." I admire, completely struck by awe as I look out the window.

"It is pretty great." Millie admits.

"Great? It's amazing. I don't think there's actually any words to describe this place and do it justice." I reply, keeping my mouth hanging open.

"Right let's just park up and then we can go inside." Millie says, finding a spot next to a grey Audi.

"Thanks Millie." The three of us thank her simultaneously.

"No worries. Let's go inside and meet the rest of the girls Em." Millie says, placing her hand on my back and taking me to the entrance.