Never Not You

Surprise

It was the 23rd of June, and Leah was in Valenciennes, France, with the England team, anxiously preparing for their round of 16 match against Cameroon. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy, excitement, and a hint of tension as the players went through their final preparations.

Meanwhile, Aurora slipped into her Williamson England shirt, the fabric a reminder of Leah's presence even when they were miles apart. The number on the back brought a small smile to her face, but also a twist of nerves. She hadn't seen Leah in person since everything fell apart, and although they had spoken on the phone, it wasn't the same.

She checked the time: 16:00. There was still enough time for her to get to the stadium before the match started. The plan was already set. She had managed to slip into France unnoticed, making sure her and Mateo's arrival didn't attract any attention. It had been tricky, but she wasn't ready for the world to know about Mateo, not just yet.

Eli was also in France, here to support Alexia in her own tournament run, but with Spain's game scheduled for tomorrow, Eli had the time to watch Mateo while Aurora went to Leah's match.

Aurora had sent a car to pick up Eli, even though Eli had protested that it was unnecessary and that she could get there on her own. Aurora, being stubborn as ever, insisted. She wanted everything to go smoothly—she wanted to focus on Leah, even if just for a few hours. Eli had finally relented, and now she and Alba had arrived at the hotel.

A knock echoed through the room, pulling Aurora from her thoughts. She opened the door to see Eli standing there with Alba right behind her, both smiling warmly.

"Hola, Aina," Eli greeted, using the name only close friends called her. She peeked over Aurora's shoulder and grinned when she saw Mateo lying on the bed. "He's grown so much since the last time I saw him!"

Alba moved past them and went straight to Mateo, leaning over to kiss his forehead as she cooed softly in Spanish. "Mira, qué grande te has puesto, Mateo."

Aurora laughed softly, her nerves easing slightly. "You sure you're okay with this?" she asked Eli, glancing at her friend, a hint of concern in her voice. "I mean, I know you're here for Alexia—"

"Aina, please," Eli cut her off with a chuckle. "I wouldn't be here if I wasn't happy to help. Alexia doesn't play until tomorrow, and besides, spending time with Mateo is a privilege."

Aurora smiled, her heart warming at the thought. "Thank you."

"You should go," Eli urged gently. "Leah's going to need you there, even if she doesn't know it yet."

Aurora nodded, walking over to scoop Mateo into her arms. She held him close for a moment, pressing a kiss to his soft cheek. "Mama loves you, little man. Be good for Eli and Alba, okay?"

Mateo gurgled in response, and Aurora felt the familiar lump rise in her throat as she handed him to Eli.

"Don't worry," Eli reassured her, settling Mateo comfortably in her arms. "We'll take good care of him. You go cheer on Leah."

Aurora smiled, her heart pounding as she grabbed her bag, ready to head to the stadium. She looked back once more at Mateo before turning towards the door. "Thanks, Eli. I owe you."

Eli waved her off with a smile. "Go, Aina. And tell Leah we're rooting for her."

With a final glance at her son, Aurora headed out, the anticipation of seeing Leah again pulling her forward.

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Aurora made her way to her seat, her heart racing as she passed rows of fans. She could already feel the weight of their gazes, the subtle shift in attention as phones began to point her way. Whispers buzzed around her, people recognizing her despite the cap and sunglasses she wore. It didn't matter. She was here for one person, and soon enough, that person would know it too.