A Bet That Changed Us ︱Pablo Gavi

18: Unspoken feelings

Pablo's pov

I stood on the edge of the training ground, watching as the buses pulled in, bringing the team back from the States. It was good to see everyone again, but there was a knot in my stomach that I couldn't shake. The past few weeks with Isabella had been more than I ever expected—intense, real, and complicated. And now, I had to face the reality of the bet I'd made with the guys.

As the team filed out of the buses, the usual banter and laughter filled the air. I forced myself to join in, keeping up the facade. But my mind was elsewhere, stuck on the mess I'd gotten myself into. When I finally made my way over to Pedri, Ferran, and Ansu, I knew what was coming.

"Pablito!" Ferran called out, slapping me on the back. "How's it been without us? Miss us? How is your leg?"

"Of course, I miss you, my legs fine" I replied with a grin, though it felt forced. My eyes flicked over to Pedri, who was already smirking.

"So, how's it going with Isabella?" Pedri asked, leaning in closer. "Still working on that bet, or have you already won?"

My stomach twisted. The bet was still on, but things had gotten so much more complicated. What started as a stupid challenge had turned into something I wasn't sure I could control anymore. I had feelings for her, real feelings, but the thought of that €2,000 was still there, lingering like a shadow over everything.

"Yeah, how's it going?" Ansu chimed in, grinning. "You're not gonna lose, are you?"

I hesitated, glancing at the ground. The truth was, I didn't want to lose. But it wasn't just about the money anymore, it was about her. Still, I couldn't back out now. They'd never let me hear the end of it, and honestly, I wasn't sure I wanted to let go of the prize just yet.

"It's going good," I finally said, trying to sound confident. "I'm making progress."

Pedri raised an eyebrow. "Progress, huh? You think you'll seal the deal before the month's up?"

I nodded, though my chest felt tight. "Yeah, I think so."

They all laughed, the sound a mix of camaraderie and competition. Ferran punched my arm playfully. "You better win, man. Two grand isn't something to just give up."

"Don't worry," I said, forcing a grin. "I've got this."

But even as I said it, the guilt gnawed at me. I didn't want to hurt Isabella, and I hated that I was still in this stupid game. But I also didn't want to lose with the guys, or the money. It was a messed up situation, and I was stuck in the middle, between what I wanted and what I knew was right.

As we headed into the locker room, the guys continued to joke and tease, but my mind was elsewhere. I couldn't keep this to myself any longer.

"Hey, listen," I said, stopping them before we reached the door. "I need to say something."

They all turned to look at me, curiosity in their eyes.

"What's up?" Pedri asked.

I took a deep breath. "I think... I think I'm falling In love for her. For real."

The teasing expressions on their faces softened slightly, and Ferran raised an eyebrow. "For real?"

"Yeah," I admitted, rubbing the back of my neck. "It's not just about the bet anymore. I actually am starting to...love her."

There was a moment of silence, and then Ansu grinned. "Damn, Pablito's in love."

Pedri smirked, but there was a hint of understanding in his eyes. "So, what are you going to do?"