OFFSIDE

68

❝ I protect you with my life. ❞
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Pablo's POV
The morning sun is shining brightly as I make my way to the office of my PR managers, Iván and Violet. I feel a mix of excitement and apprehension about the meeting. Today, we're discussing my upcoming campaign with Nike and, inevitably, Elena. I want to share what happend at the exhibition.

As I enter the sleek, modern building, I'm greeted by the familiar faces of the staff. They all nod and smile, making me feel at home. I take the elevator to the top floor and walk down the corridor to the large conference room where Iván and Violet are waiting for me.

"Good morning, Pablo," Iván says, standing up to shake my hand. He's always impeccably dressed, his dark suit and tie making him look every bit the part of a top PR manager.

"Morning," I reply, smiling. "Hi, Violet."

"Hi, Pablo," Violet responds warmly. She's more casually dressed than Iván but exudes a sense of professionalism and confidence. Her long blonde hair is tied back in a neat ponytail, and she wears a simple yet stylish outfit.

"Please, have a seat," Iván gestures to the chair opposite him. I sit down, and we begin our discussion.

"We've got a lot to cover today," Iván starts, flipping open a folder. "Firstly, congratulations on the Nike campaign. They're thrilled to have you as the face of their new collection."

"Thank you," I say, genuinely excited about the collaboration. "I'm really looking forward to it."

"We've been working on the promotional strategy," Violet adds, handing me a document. "Here's the initial plan. We'll have a series of photoshoots, some interviews, and a few public appearances."

I scan the document, nodding as I read. "Looks good. When do we start?"

"Next week," Iván says. "We'll need you to be available for the photoshoots first. They want to capture you in action, both on and off the field."

"Sounds perfect," I say. "But before we dive into all that, there's something I wanted to share with you both."

Iván and Violet exchange a curious glance. "Go ahead," Iván says.

"Elena's paintings have been discovered," I say, unable to keep the pride out of my voice. "There's a chance she might become a well-known artist."

For a moment, there's silence. Then, Iván clears his throat. "That's... interesting news," he says carefully.

"Yes, congratulations to her," Violet adds, though her tone lacks enthusiasm.

I frown slightly. "You don't seem as excited as I am."

"It's not that we're not happy for her," Iván explains, choosing his words carefully. "It's just that... this might complicate things."

"Complicate things? How?" I ask, a little taken aback.

"Pablo, you're a public figure," Violet says gently. "And as your PR managers, it's our job to ensure that everything in your life aligns with your image."

"And what's wrong with Elena being an artist?" I challenge, feeling defensive.

"It's not about her being an artist," Iván says. "It's about the public perception. The WAGs – the wives and girlfriends of athletes – are expected to fit a certain image. They're seen as supportive figures, often in the background, focused on their partners' careers."

"Elena's achievements could shift the spotlight," Violet adds. "It could create a narrative where she's seen as pursuing her own ambitions, which might not sit well with everyone."