A Bet That Changed Us ︱Pablo Gavi

70: unexpected suprises

The flight back to Barcelona was a blend of calm and reflection. After the excitement of the match and the warmth of the evening spent with Pablo, the quiet of the airplane cabin provided a welcome contrast. As the plane ascended into the sky, I gazed out the window, watching the lights of Seville fade into the distance. The night had been full of celebration, but the tranquility of the flight offered a moment to absorb and appreciate everything that had happened.

Pablo and I had managed to find a pair of seats together, away from the hustle of the rest of the team. We were settled comfortably, each with our own space but close enough to share a conversation or a touch. The plane's gentle hum and the soft light of the cabin created an atmosphere that was both soothing and intimate.

We talked about the match, dissecting the key moments and the highlights. Pablo was still riding the high of being named Man of the Match, his excitement evident as he recounted his goal and the assist to Lewandowski. His eyes lit up with enthusiasm, and I couldn't help but smile at his infectious energy.

"You were incredible out there," I said, reaching over to squeeze his hand. "The goal you scored—"

"It was for you," Pablo interrupted, his voice soft but sincere. "I wanted to make sure you knew how much I appreciate you being there."

His words made my heart flutter. I squeezed his hand back, feeling a deep connection between us. "I'm glad I could be there," I replied. "It felt right."

The conversation shifted to lighter topics as the flight continued. We talked about our favorite moments from the series we'd watched the previous night and shared laughter over some of the episodes. The camaraderie on the plane was palpable, with players and staff mingling, catching up, and sharing stories from the trip.

At one point, Pablo leaned closer, his voice barely a whisper. "You know, this trip—being with you, watching the match, and just spending time together—it's been special."

I looked into his eyes, seeing a blend of affection and earnestness. "It really has," I agreed. "I feel like we're in a good place, moving forward."

Pablo nodded, a thoughtful expression on his face. "We are. I'm glad we're finding our way back to each other."

As the flight progressed, I leaned back in my seat, feeling a mix of relaxation and contentment. The plane's gentle rocking was calming, and the soft light of the cabin provided a cocoon of warmth. Pablo's presence beside me was reassuring, and I could sense the positive energy between us.

We shared a quiet moment, simply enjoying the proximity. The plane was softly illuminated by the overhead lights, casting a gentle glow around us. Pablo's hand was resting on my leg, his fingers lightly brushing against my skin. It was a small gesture, but it conveyed a lot.

As the plane began its descent into Barcelona, the city lights below gradually came into view. The twinkling lights of the city were a welcome sight, signaling the end of our journey and the start of the next chapter.

The plane landed smoothly, and the team began to gather their belongings, ready to disembark. I felt a sense of excitement about returning to Barcelona, mixed with the satisfaction of a successful trip. Pablo and I walked off the plane together, the camaraderie of the team still evident as we made our way to the arrivals area.

The atmosphere was lively, with everyone chatting and laughing as we headed to the buses. It was a familiar and comforting routine, one that marked the end of a successful trip and the beginning of the daily grind back in Barcelona. As we settled into the bus and started the journey back to the city, I looked over at Pablo, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for the moments we had shared and the path we were forging together.

The flight had been a journey of reflection and connection, and as we arrived back in Barcelona, I felt hopeful and content about the future, knowing that we were on a positive path, both professionally and personally.

The players were chatting excitedly, but for me, the real highlight was the time I'd get to spend with Pablo. With my car left at the training center, Pablo had offered to drive me home. I gladly accepted, eager to be with him.

As we drove through the streets of Barcelona, I couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort and excitement. Our conversations were light and easy, but there was an underlying warmth that made me feel closer to him. His presence felt so familiar, and I found myself smiling more than I had in a while.

When we arrived at Pablo's house, he led me inside with an effortless charm. The place was just as I remembered: cozy and stylish, reflecting Pablo's laid-back yet sophisticated personality. I felt a wave of contentment wash over me as I stepped inside.

Just as I was about to get comfortable, the doorbell rang. I quickly changed into something more relaxed, curious about who might be visiting. When I walked into the living room, I was taken aback to see Aurora, Pablo's sister, standing there. I hadn't expected her and was caught off guard.

"Isabella!" Aurora's eyes widened with surprise and pleasure. "I didn't know you'd be here."

"Hey, Aurora," I said, trying to mask my surprise. "I didn't realize you were visiting."

Aurora gave a playful shrug. "Pablo didn't mention you'd be here. Looks like I'm interrupting a special night."

Pablo, sensing the tension, stepped in to explain. "Aurora, Isabella and I have been working on our friendship. We're trying to move past everything."

Aurora's gaze shifted between us with a hint of amusement. "Friends, huh? It seems like there's more to it."

I felt a flush rise to my cheeks, and Aurora's knowing smile didn't help. "We're really trying to focus on being friends again. It's a process, but we're getting there."

Aurora's expression softened. "I'm glad to hear that. It must have been difficult for both of you."

Pablo nodded, adding, "It's been a journey, but we're focusing on the positives now."

The evening was unexpectedly pleasant. Aurora shared updates about her life, and Pablo and I talked about the game. The easy conversation and shared laughter felt refreshing, and I was beginning to feel more at ease with Aurora's presence.

When the conversation shifted to our future plans, Aurora's curiosity was piqued again. "So, what's next for you two? Are you planning to stay just friends, or...?"

Pablo and I exchanged a glance. We hadn't fully defined what we were to each other, but we knew it was important to be clear.

I spoke up, "We're just taking things one step at a time. We're focusing on building a strong foundation, whatever that turns out to be."

Aurora nodded, clearly intrigued but respectful. "That sounds like a good approach. I hope you both find what you're looking for."

As Aurora said her goodbyes, she gave us both warm hugs and left with a smile. Pablo and I were alone again, the night's revelations settling in around us.

Pablo turned to me, a thoughtful expression on his face. "I didn't expect Aurora to come over tonight. I hope it wasn't too awkward for you."

I smiled, feeling a sense of relief. "No, it was actually nice to catch up with her. I'm glad she stopped by."

Pablo reached out and took my hand gently. "I'm glad you're here. It feels right."

We spent the rest of the evening talking and laughing, the comfort and warmth between us growing stronger. As the night went on, I felt a deep sense of belonging.

When it was time for bed, I settled into Pablo's room, feeling a contentedness I hadn't felt in a long time. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but look forward to what the future might hold for us.