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s e v e n

K e n a n s - p o v ::

Back at the training ground, I cant seem to wipe the smile off my face. Everything feels lighter, more vibrant, since my days with Mine. As I lace up my boots, Federico , my teammate and close friend, nudges me with a knowing grin.

"Someone is in a good mood." he teases, raising an eyebrow. "Whats the story? Did you score a winning goal off the field too?"
I laugh, shaking my head. "Maybe I did."

Federicos eyes widen slightly in surprise. "Alright, spill. Who is the lucky girl?"

We jog out onto the field, joining the rest of the team for warm-ups. "Her name is Mine," I start, my voice filled with warmth.
"She works at the café I go to. We have been talking for a while"
Federico looks intrigued. "The café girl? The one you have been talking about non-stop? Man, you must really like her."

"I do," I admit, feeling a surge of emotion. "She is different, fed. She sees me for who I am, not just the footballer. Its refreshing."

We start our drills, passing the ball back and forth. Federico nods, his expression thoughtful. "That is important. So, what did you guys do?"

"We just talked, really talked. Went to a quiet café after the match, yesterday we were in a park. It was simple, but it felt...real," I say, kicking the ball to him. He traps it effortlessly, then returns it to me.

"That is good, Kenan. You need someone who keeps you grounded. Our lives can get pretty crazy."

"Exactly." I agree. "But it is not all sunshine and roses. She is worried about the public attention, the scrutiny that comes with being with someone like me."
Federico pauses, looking serious.
"That is a valid concern. Its not easy, living in the spotlight. Have you thought about how you will handle it?"

"I have," I reply, my tone more somber "I told her we will take it one step at a time, figure it out together. I do not want to lose her because of my career."
He claps me on the shoulder, a supportive gesture.
"You are doing the right thing. Just be honest with her, and with yourself. If its meant to be, you will find a way."

We continue our training, the conversation with my friend giving me a sense of clarity. It is reassuring to know that my friend understands and supports me. As the season progresses, I focus on the drills, but my mind keeps drifting back to Mine and the future we are trying to build.
After practice, my teammate and I head to the locker room, still talking about everything and nothing.
"So when are you seeing her next?" he asks, peeling off his sweaty jersey.

"We have got a date planned for the weekend." I say, feeling a thrill of anticipation. "We are going to visit a museum she likes. Something different, away from the crowds."

My friend grins. "That sounds perfect. Keep it up man. You are onto something good here."
I nod, feeling a renewed sense of purpose
"Thanks, Fed. I appreciate it."

After all the talking, I shower and change, I reflect on how much has changed in such a short time. Mine has brought a new dimension to my life, one that balances the intensity of my career. I am determined to make this work, to find a way to merge our worlds without losing what makes us unique.
Leaving the locker room, I check my phone and see a message from Mine;
Looking forward to our date. Cannot wait to see you again.

I smile, my heart lifting. I type back a quick response: me too. Its going to be amazing :)
With that, I head out.