𝐀 𝐁𝐞𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐔𝐬︱Pablo Gavi

88: A new year's toast

The final hours of 2024 had arrived, and Barcelona was alive with a palpable sense of anticipation. The city buzzed with excitement, its streets illuminated by festive lights and fireworks, the promise of a new year hanging in the air like a delicate, sparkling thread. I was both excited and anxious as I prepared for Ferran's New Year's Eve party. The event was the highlight of the evening, and I wanted to make sure everything was perfect.

Pablo and I arrived at Ferran's apartment just before the festivities were set to begin. His home had been transformed into a winter wonderland, every corner adorned with twinkling fairy lights and elegant decorations. The scent of gourmet food and fine champagne mingled in the air, creating an inviting atmosphere. As we stepped inside, the warmth and joy of the party immediately enveloped us.

"Isa! Pablo!" Ferran's cheerful voice cut through the lively chatter as he made his way over to us. His enthusiasm was contagious. "I'm so glad you both could make it. We're just about to start the countdown. Come on, let's get you something to drink!"

We followed Ferran to the bar area, where he poured us each a glass of sparkling champagne. The crowd was a mix of familiar faces and new acquaintances. Ansu, Balde, and Lamine were already there, enjoying themselves and mingling with the other guests. Valentina and Mikky were also present, their faces glowing with excitement.

Pablo and I made our way through the crowd, greeting friends and catching up on the latest news. The evening was filled with laughter, dancing, and the kind of camaraderie that makes New Year's Eve so special. Ferran's apartment was alive with energy, and it felt like the perfect place to celebrate the end of a memorable year.

As the evening progressed, Ferran announced that it was time for the countdown. The excitement in the room was almost tangible. We all gathered around, our glasses raised and ready for the final moments of 2024.

"Five... four... three... two... one!" The countdown echoed through the room, and as the clock struck midnight, the apartment erupted in cheers and applause. Fireworks lit up the sky outside, visible through the large windows. The room was filled with joyous shouts and the clinking of glasses.

Pablo pulled me into a warm embrace, his smile wide and genuine. "Happy New Year, Isa," he said, his voice filled with emotion.

"Happy New Year, Pablo," I replied, my heart swelling with happiness. It felt like a perfect start to the year ahead, with Pablo by my side and the support of our friends.

The celebration continued with an abundance of food, drinks, and dancing. Ferran had outdone himself with an impressive spread of appetizers and a lavish dessert table. The music was upbeat, and the dance floor was quickly filled with people eager to celebrate.

I spent some time catching up with Valentina and Mikky. We talked about our plans for the upcoming year and reminisced about our favorite moments from the past year. It was heartwarming to reflect on everything we had experienced and to share our hopes for the future.

As the night wore on, Ferran made his way around the room, ensuring that everyone was having a great time. He eventually gathered everyone together for a special announcement. With a broad smile, he raised his glass and signaled for attention.

"Thank you all for being here tonight," Ferran began, his voice carrying over the crowd. "This year has been incredible, and I couldn't have asked for better friends to share it with. Here's to a new year filled with even more amazing moments."

Everyone raised their glasses in a toast, and the room was filled with heartfelt cheers. The celebration continued with even more dancing and laughter. As the clock ticked past midnight, the party showed no signs of slowing down.