Her Swimmer

Plans

Talia had packed her bags, ready to leave for Australia, but there was still one night left in Barcelona. She felt a pang of reluctance, knowing she wasn't quite ready to say goodbye to the city just yet. So she decided on what to do.

Hiking felt like the perfect way to soak in the remaining beauty of the place she'd come to love in such a short time.

After slipping into her athletic gear and grabbing her water bottle, Talia set out to one of the well-known trails. The sun was already starting its slow descent, casting a warm, golden hue over the cityscape. The higher she climbed, the more breathtaking the views became, the sprawling city and sparkling sea stretching out beneath her.

Despite her profession as a swimmer, Talia rarely had the chance to enjoy this kind of physical activity outside the pool. There was something different about being in the open air, surrounded by nature instead of the harsh, sterile environment of a competition pool. The earthy scent of the trail, the chirping of birds, and the soft breeze made the experience feel almost meditative. The hike provided a sense of peace that contrasted sharply with the intensity of her athletic career.

As she reached a viewpoint, she paused, taking in the panoramic view of the Barcelona skyline bathed in the golden light of dusk. The sea glittered in the distance, and she felt a quiet sense of satisfaction. It was moments like these that reminded her why she loved traveling, why stepping away from the pool and the constant grind of training was essential.

Talia inhaled deeply, letting the fresh air fill her lungs as she took in the moment. The hike was a reminder that while she was always chasing the next win, the next medal, there was a world beyond the water—one she needed to experience fully.

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As Talia stood at the top of the trail, basking in the stunning view, she suddenly felt something nudge her leg. Looking down, she saw a small, excited dog—a fluffy little thing wagging its tail furiously. With a soft laugh, she bent down, rubbing its ears and letting it lick her hand.

"Hey there, little one," she murmured, her heart warming at the unexpected encounter. She scanned the area, searching for its owner, but no one seemed to be nearby.

Then, faintly, she heard a woman calling out, the name Nala ringing in the air. Talia quickly put two and two together. "She's over here!" Talia called back in Spanish, her accent rough but understandable.

Within moments, the woman appeared, slightly out of breath from her search. As she came closer, recognition flickered in both their eyes. Talia's breath caught in her throat.

There, standing before her, was Alexia Putellas.

La Reina.

The queen of Barcelona. A true legend in football, revered worldwide. Talia knew exactly who she was—how could she not? Alexia was the kind of athlete whose name transcended sports, an icon known by millions.

For a moment, they stood there, both equally surprised, though Alexia recovered quicker.

"Gracias," Alexia said with a warm smile, clearly grateful for Talia's help.

Talia, still a bit starstruck, nodded and smiled back. "De nada," she replied, managing to keep her composure despite the whirlwind of thoughts racing through her mind.

Alexia's eyes lit up with recognition the moment she saw Talia's face. It wasn't just from that fleeting encounter at the beach; Alexia knew who she was. She had watched the Rio Olympics and the following swimming competitions following over the years, captivated by the young swimmer who had wowed the world with her talent and grace in the pool. Talia Sterling was more than just an athlete; she was a star, a once-in-a-generation talent that Alexia had silently admired from afar.