OFFSIDE

58

❝ And at every table, I'll save you a seat, lover. ❞
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Elena's POV
"Don't stress so much, Elena. It's all going to be fine. They'll be here any minute now," Julieta tries to calm me down. I've been a nervous wreck all day. I can't eat a thing, my stomach feels weird, and I've already been to the bathroom ten times in the past hour. I'm a bundle of nerves right now.

I'm just afraid things won't go well. What if no one shows up? Or they don't like my paintings? I desperately want someone to be proud of me for once.

I want Pablo to be proud of me.

Then the door swings open and a large group of footballers enters. I smile broadly as I see my friends. I'm so grateful they've taken the time to come here.

Lamine is the first to approach me, holding a big bouquet and dressed in a suit. It looks so cute. "On behalf of all of us," he smiles, giving me a hug. I then greet all the other guys with hugs and look over at Mikky.

"So nice to finally meet you," I smile at her. "Likewise. Thanks for the invitation," she says, and we exchange a hug. Mikky is such a powerhouse. Very cheerful, but not too girly. She also has a bit of an edge.

Pedri is the last in line. I look at him, slightly puzzled. Where's Pablo?

Pedri walks up to me and gives me a hug. I immediately recognize his signature scent and smile.

"Where's Pablo?" I ask as soon as he lets go. Pedri's expression shifts from difficult to serious. This question hurts him, and I understand why. It might seem like I'm not happy he's here. But I'm very happy and grateful.

"He couldn't make it," he says, and the whole group falls silent. His words hit me like a bombshell, and I gasp for breath. What does he mean, Pablo isn't coming? Tears well up in my eyes, and I struggle to hold them back. I don't want anyone to see me weak.

"He really wanted to be here, but his coach kept him for an extra training session. He's very sorry," Pedri says, and I bite my lip.

It's not Pablo's fault. I'm sure he feels terrible about not being here.

"Oh, uh, yes, I understand," I stammer a bit. The joy and pride I felt earlier have vanished. It feels like I've been slapped back into reality. Because, after all, it always goes this way.

"But we're going to have a great afternoon. I'm really looking forward to seeing all your paintings," Fermín tries to lighten the mood.

I glance at Pedri and then put on my happy mask. The mask I always wear while I'm dying inside. The mask that has let me pretend to be the cheerful girl I often am not.

"Exactly. Welcome, everyone. I'm so grateful you're here. This means so much to me," I smile through the pain. Thanks to the mask. I sigh deeply. Come on, Elena, you can do this.

I look around awkwardly, unsure of what to say to the group. More people are entering the room. I see a few familiar faces, but also some unfamiliar ones.

"Let's get started," I'm saved by Mrs. Ramirez. I look at her gratefully, and we walk to the room where my paintings are displayed. I immediately hear some astonished sounds.

I stand next to Mrs. Ramirez in front of the group and look at them. I see Pedri watching me with pride and attention while the rest are already looking around at my work. I give Pedri a small smile, and he subtly gives me a thumbs up; a sign that everything will be okay.

Mrs. Ramirez steps up to the small podium at the front of the room. She taps the microphone gently, signaling for everyone's attention. The murmurs quiet down, and all eyes turn toward her. She smiles warmly at the crowd, then glances at me, her eyes twinkling with pride.