𝐖𝐎𝐒𝐎 𝐗 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐑 𝐎𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐒

•so bloody english (Alexia Putellas)

The aroma of freshly ground coffee beans enveloped the cozy café in Barcelona where I sat, trying to navigate the city with my limited Spanish. I sipped my café con leche, hoping the caffeine would aid my quest for basic communication skills in this vibrant city. Little did I know, my next encounter would both challenge and charm me in unexpected ways.

As I flipped through a guidebook, pondering my next move, a sudden collision startled me. A blonde with warm, hazel eyes stood before me, a slight apology dancing on her lips as she gathered her composure. It took me a moment to recognize her—Alexia Putellas, the skilled midfielder from FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team.

"Mira, lo siento," she said, her voice smooth with a hint of amusement, her Catalan accent adding a melodic twist to her words.

I blinked, momentarily stunned by her presence. Gathering my thoughts, I replied hesitantly, "Um, no pasa nada," hoping my rusty Spanish wouldn't embarrass me further.

She chuckled softly, a smile playing on her lips as she switched to flawless English. "You know, it's funny how English speakers expect everyone to know their language, yet they rarely bother learning others' when they travel."

I felt a blush creeping up my cheeks, both flustered and intrigued by her playful jab. "Guilty as charged," I admitted with a sheepish grin. "I'm trying, though."

Alexia tilted her head, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. "So, what brings you to Barcelona? Aside from getting lost in our charming coffee shops, that is."

Embarrassment turned into a conversation starter as I explained my wanderlust and desire to experience the rich culture and vibrant energy of Barcelona. Alexia listened attentively, interjecting with recommendations for hidden gems and local haunts that weren't in any guidebook.

As we chatted, her warmth and charisma were infectious, easing my nerves about stumbling through Spanish conversations. She teased me about my attempts at ordering coffee and gently corrected my pronunciation, all the while making me feel at ease with her genuine interest and kindness.

Before long, our conversation shifted effortlessly from travel tips to personal anecdotes and shared passions. Alexia spoke passionately about her love for football and her experiences playing for FC Barcelona, while I shared stories of my own adventures and hobbies.

As the afternoon sun dipped lower in the sky, Alexia glanced at her watch with a playful smirk. "I hate to leave such charming company, but I have training soon," she said regretfully, though her eyes sparkled mischievously.

I nodded understandingly, though I couldn't hide my disappointment. "It's been amazing talking to you," I replied sincerely, realizing how much I had enjoyed our unexpected encounter.

She flashed a dazzling smile, her gaze lingering for a moment longer than necessary. "Perhaps we'll bump into each other again," she said, her tone suggestive yet playful.

With a flutter of excitement in my chest, I watched her leave the café, her confident stride and infectious laughter lingering in the air. As I sat there, finishing the last of my coffee, I couldn't help but feel that this chance meeting with Alexia Putellas had not only brightened my day but had also sparked a newfound curiosity in this enchanting city of Barcelona.