London, once blue, now red

First Camp

A couple of days flew by, and it was now the night before we had to leave for the England camp. My nerves were starting to get the better of me. As I stood in my room, double-checking my bags, my phone buzzed with an incoming FaceTime call from Leah.

Leah: "Hey, love!"

Her smiling face filled the screen, and just seeing her made me feel a bit more at ease.

Isla: "Hey, Leah. I miss you already."

Leah: "I miss you too. But listen, don't be worried about camp. We're going to have so much fun! And besides, we'll be together."

I nodded, trying to let her reassurance sink in.

Isla: "I know. I just can't help but feel nervous. It's such a big deal."

Leah: "I get it, but you've got this, Isla. Just be yourself and enjoy the experience."

I smiled, feeling a little lighter.

Isla: "Millie helped me pack, so I'm all set."

Leah: "Of course she did. Millie's always got your back."

I laughed softly, thinking about my sister's meticulous packing skills.

Isla: "Yeah, she does. But I'm still worried."

Leah: "Well, worry less and remember that we're doing this together. I love you, Isla."

Isla: "I love you too, Leah. Thanks for always being there for me."

We said our goodbyes, and I felt a bit more confident as I finished packing. The next morning, Millie and I piled into the car and headed to the England camp. The drive was filled with a mix of excitement and nervous energy.

As we pulled up to the hotel, Millie gave me a quick briefing.

Millie: "Okay, Isla. There will be someone with a camera out front. Just wave, say hi with a smile, and you'll be fine."

I nodded, taking a deep breath. We got out of the car and, sure enough, there was a cameraman waiting. I managed a smile and a wave, feeling a bit self-conscious but doing my best to look confident.

Inside the hotel, the corridor was bustling with players. Millie spotted some of her friends and headed off to talk to them. I scanned the room, my eyes darting around as I looked for Leah. I was so focused on finding her that I didn't notice Alessia standing right in front of me.

Alessia: "Isla! Hey, Isla!"

I blinked, finally snapping out of my daze and realising that Alessia was trying to talk to me.

Isla: "Oh, Alessia! Sorry I didn't see you there."

She laughed, a friendly and understanding smile on her face.

Alessia: "No worries. It's a lot to take in, right? First camp nerves?"

I nodded, feeling a bit embarrassed but grateful for her kindness.

Isla: "Yeah, it's a bit overwhelming."

Alessia: "You'll be fine. Just stick with us, and we'll make sure you settle in."

I smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. As we chatted, I finally spotted Leah across the room. She waved, and I felt a rush of relief. She made her way over, wrapping me in a warm hug.

Leah: "There you are. How are you holding up?"

Isla: "Better now that you're here."

Leah: "Good. Let's get you settled in. We've got a great camp ahead of us."