A Bet That Changed Us ︱Pablo Gavi

108: wives and girlfriends

Isabella' pov

Valentina and Mikky have been planning this girls' night for weeks now. It's something we all need—a break from the boys, the games, and the constant whirlwind that is life around FC Barcelona. Tonight's about unwinding, laughing, and having a good time with just us girls. Mikky's apartment is the perfect spot, cozy and full of warmth. She's already got the fairy lights up, the wine chilling, and a playlist ready to go.

By the time I arrive, a few of the girls are already here—Alina, the girl Ansu has been seeing, and a few other familiar faces from our circle. Valentina waves me over excitedly, practically pulling me in for a hug. "Isa! Finally, you're here! We've been waiting for you," she says with a grin.

Mikky comes over, giving me a quick squeeze. "It's going to be a great night," she adds. "We have everything planned—gossip, McDonald's for dinner, and of course, a bit of truth or dare."

I smile, feeling relaxed already. It's good to be here with friends, away from the chaos. I spot some of the other girlfriends of the players—young, fun, and all in for a good time. But then, out of the corner of my eye, I see someone who instantly makes my stomach clench—Angie.

I shoot a look at Valentina, who shrugs helplessly. "Pablo Torre invited her," she whispers. "I didn't want to be rude and tell her to leave."

I sigh, already feeling the tension creeping up my spine. I don't get it. She's not friends with us. Hell, she's barely even friends with Valentina or Mikky. But here she is, apparently invited by someone who isn't even here. Great.

Angie, of course, makes herself right at home, laughing a bit too loudly, trying too hard to fit in. She's sitting across from me, and I can already feel the daggers in her eyes whenever she glances my way. I try to ignore it, focusing on Alina, who's telling a funny story about Ansu's cooking skills—or lack thereof. The room is filled with laughter, and I'm just starting to enjoy myself when Angie's voice cuts through.

"I mean, I know this is probably a bit awkward to say," she starts, a sly smile tugging at her lips, "but I just have to say it—Pablo is just so handsome, you know? Like, ridiculously hot. I can't be the only one who thinks so."

The room goes silent. The laughter dies down, and everyone's eyes slowly shift from her to me. The audacity. I feel the heat rising in my cheeks. I clench my jaw, my knuckles turning white around the glass in my hand. Angie looks around, her face falling slightly as she realizes what she's done. Her attempt to stir the pot has backfired spectacularly.

Mikky quickly changes the subject, trying to keep things light, but the tension lingers. When it's time for dinner, we settle in with our McDonald's, the comforting smell of fries and burgers filling the room. The movie's playing, but I'm hardly paying attention. I'm too busy watching Angie, who's now whispering with Luna, her best friend, the two of them casting quick glances my way.

Then comes the dreaded truth or dare. At first, it's all in good fun—truths about embarrassing stories, dares to dance around the room or take a funny selfie. But then it's Luna's turn, and she grins wickedly, her eyes landing on Angie.

"Angie," she says, dragging out her name. "I dare you to text Pablo something flirty. Like, make it good."

The room falls into an uncomfortable silence. I feel like I've just been slapped in the face. I can't believe what I'm hearing. Angie doesn't hesitate. She pulls out her phone, a smirk on her lips, clearly enjoying the discomfort she's causing. It's too much.

"That's enough," I snap, my voice cutting through the room like a knife. All eyes turn to me, but I don't care. I stand up, staring directly at Angie. "I don't know what your problem is, but it's obvious you're trying to cause trouble here. Pablo and I are in a committed relationship, and you need to stop trying to play games with him. It's pathetic, and honestly, it's disrespectful to everyone here."