The next morning, the Blazing Lions were buzzing with excitement as they prepared for their highly anticipated match against the American team. The air was filled with a mix of nerves and determination, everyone eager to showcase their skills and execute their newly perfected moves.
Uno and Denise were the last to leave their room, still basking in the warmth of their heartfelt moments the night before. As they boarded the bus, they took seats together, sharing headphones to watch another episode of Top Gear. Uno chuckled as Clarkson wrecked another car, and Denise smirked, “You know, if you ever tried half the stunts they do, I’d probably have to save you more often.”
Uno grinned, “I’m careful. Well, mostly. But having you around makes everything a bit safer.”
Denise leaned her head on his shoulder, “Let’s hope we don’t need a rescue mission anytime soon.”
As the bus rolled toward the stadium, their teammates’ playful chatter filled the air. Uno and Denise exchanged Top Gear quotes, earning amused glances from their friends.
Lance, sitting across from them, grinned, “You two and your Top Gear quotes. Can’t get enough of that show, can you?”
Uno shrugged, a mischievous glint in his eye, “What can I say? It’s a classic.”
When they arrived at the stadium, the team quickly geared up. The crisp air was invigorating, and everyone was eager to get started.
As they changed into their uniforms, the red jerseys with white shorts stood out vibrantly against the green field. Uno, Lance, Matt, and Angelo, all in suits, and Denise, Olivia, Avva, and Jada in semi-formal attire, looked sharp and confident. Uno and Denise even wore matching shoes, a small but endearing touch.
As they were about to head out, Uno and Denise shared a playful moment. Denise grabbed a nearby pillow, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “Hey, Uno, I think I deserve a rematch from last night.”
Uno raised an eyebrow, a grin spreading across his face. “Oh, you want to go again?”
Before he could react, Denise swatted him with the pillow. “Yes, I do!”
Laughing, Uno grabbed another pillow, and they tumbled onto the bench, engaging in a playful pillow fight. Their laughter echoed through the room, drawing curious glances from their teammates.
“What’s going on in there?” Angelo called out from the other side of the room.
Uno, slightly out of breath, responded, “Just a little friendly competition!”
Denise, giggling, added, “I think I’m winning!”
After a few more playful swats, they collapsed on the bench, breathless and smiling. Uno leaned in, his voice soft. “You’re amazing, Denise. Never change.”
Denise’s eyes sparkled with affection. “I could say the same to you.”
They joined the team in the locker room, where the excitement was palpable. As the starters—Uno (FW/Capt) [10], Denise (FW/CoCapt) [11], Lance (LW) [8], Matt (RW) [27], Angelo (CDM) [9], Isabelle (MF) [98], Maury (MF) [25], Avva (LB) [21], Acel (RB) [15], Jada (MF) [13], and Lorenzo (GK) [1]—huddled together, Uno began the hype-up session.
“Alright, team! This is our moment. We’ve trained hard, we’ve got the moves, and most importantly, we’ve got each other. Let’s show them what the Blazing Lions are made of!”
Denise added, her voice filled with determination, “We’ve got this. Together, we’re unstoppable. Let’s go out there and give it everything we’ve got!”
