Lifeline (Marc Guiu)

Chapter 2

Turning 18 was always a big moment for everyone. Finally, they were no longer underage. Depending on the country, a lot could change. For 18-year-olds in Spain, turning 18 meant they could now drive, drink legally or vote. Big changes. It also meant that, if they were athletes, they could sign bigger contracts with their clubs and sponsors because they were no longer restricted by the laws made to protect minors.

So turning 18 made Marc feel like he was now ready to take on the world. And that included signing a new contract with Puma that meant he would get a bigger spotlight in the brand's ads. So that also meant he had to do photoshoots for them. And it was while at a photoshoot that he found a familiar face. Someone he was supposed to call when he turned 18 but it was hard to call someone when you didn't know their number.

"Long time no see, Vicky's best friend".

"Oh, hi!"

Alicia couldn't believe Marc was there. It made sense because she knew a Barça footballer was going to be doing the shoot but she didn't expect it to be him. No real reason why.

"What are you doing here? Are you a model?"

"You're funny", she said, rolling her eyes. "I'm a make-up artist. I'm supposed to try and make you look good".

"I'm sure you'll do a great job. It's not that hard to make me look good, right?"

"You need to stop flirting with me, Marc. You're a baby".

"I'm already 18. You told me to call you back when I was 18 but...well, my only possibility was asking Fermín for your number and he's probably not in the mood for that".

Alicia sighed. Because Marc was right. Fermín wasn't in the mood for a lot of things. Victoria's dad had caught them while they were making out and all hell broke loose. It had been so hard for Victoria that it broke Alicia's heart to even think about it. Her best friend looked so sad...no matter how hard Alicia tried to cheer Victoria up, nothing worked. She just needed Fermín back in her life. But her dad wasn't going to make it easy for them to be together.

But why did Marc know that?

"Wait. How do you know?"

"How do I know what?", asked Marc, trying not to smile.

"About Fermín not being in a good mood. Do you know the reason why?"

"I do. I heard the fight when Oscar found them but hid in my room so they wouldn't see me. I haven't told anyone. I'm not an asshole".
"Thanks. It's been really hard for them".

"I bet...".

"But", Alicia sighed again, "let's talk about something else. Like, I don't know...why aren't you playing for the senior team all the time? I don't see you at the matches when I watch the team".

"That's so cute that you watch to try and see me", said Marc, making Alicia roll her eyes again. "But I'm only 18 so there's no rush. I already debuted with them a few months ago...".

"I still can't believe you're just 18. Like, how can you be 18?"

"What do you mean how? I was born 18 years ago so...", Marc was very confused by that comment.

"It's just...you don't look 18".

"How don't I look 18?"

"The arms? Which 18-year-old has those muscles?"

"I do?", he chuckled.

"You're making me feel old".

"You're 19. You're a December baby and I'm a January baby so you're barely one year older than me. It's ok to be attracted to me, Alicia. Don't worry. No one will call the police".