Paris with Love and Gold Medals

Chapter Five

THE NEXT FEW MOMENTS after the game were a whirlwind like everything was happening at once. One second, Elena was celebrating with her teammates, the next, she was surrounded by cameras and microphones. The media team swept in almost immediately, their questions coming at her rapid-fire. She answered them as best as she could, still buzzing with the adrenaline of their win. They asked about the game, about that final spike, and about what it meant for the Philippines to win their first Olympic match. They marveled at her strength, her athleticism, and her composure under pressure.

Elena could see the admiration in their eyes, could hear it in the way they spoke to her. They kept calling her strong, calling her great, but honestly, she was still trying to wrap her head around everything that had just happened. It was clear that they were enamored with the story-the Philippines' first Olympic volleyball victory, and she was right at the center of it. But even as she answered their questions, it didn't feel real yet; it was like she was watching it all happen from a distance, not quite fully in the moment.

After a few more interviews, some quick greetings, and more handshakes than she could count, Elena finally made her way out of the arena. A few assistants from their team flanked her, along with some security personnel. The cool air outside was a welcome relief after the heat and noise of the stadium. She took a deep breath, feeling the tension slowly start to leave her shoulders.

As they approached the exit, Elena's eyes landed on someone leaning casually against the wall. It took her a moment to recognize him, but when she did, her heart skipped a beat. Ryan. He was there, waiting for her, his posture relaxed, yet there was an air of anticipation about him. His arms were crossed over his chest, and he seemed lost in thought. He didn't notice her at first, which gave her a moment to just... look at him. And damn, he looked good. There was something about the way he carried himself like he was both relaxed and ready for anything. His hair was a little messy, probably from running his hands through it, and his jawline was so sharp it could cut glass. She couldn't help but think how handsome he looked, more so than she'd even realized before.

Did she think he was hot? Absolutely. She'd noticed it before, but right then, it hit her all over again. There was something about him, something that drew her in. Maybe it was the way he seemed so effortlessly cool, or maybe it was just the fact that he stayed. He could've left, could've gone back to whatever he needed to do, but he didn't. He was here, waiting for her. It meant a lot, actually.

Elena felt a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth, her heart beating a little faster as she took a step towards him. Her nerves were still buzzing from the game, but now there was something else mixed in it. Excitement? Maybe. Curiosity? Definitely.

Just then, Ryan finally looked up and saw her. Their eyes met, and for a split second, everything else faded away. The noise, the chaos, the exhaustion from the game-all of it faded into the background. It was just the two of them, standing there, caught in the moment that felt almost suspended in time. And in that moment, Elena knew-she was in trouble. But in the best possible way.

***

As Elena walked toward him, Ryan felt his heart rate pick up, and for a moment, he didn't know what to do or say. He wasn't usually the kind of guy who got tongue-tied, but right now, with her closing the distance between them, he was at a loss. Should he say something witty? Congratulate her on the game? Compliment her on the win, or how she completely dominated the court? All of those words felt suddenly inadequate like they couldn't fully capture what he was feeling.

Elena was no longer in her jersey; she had changed into something more casual, but damn, she was still stunning. The way she walked, with that natural grace and confidence, made her seem like she was glowing. Not to exaggerate, but it felt like Elena was the most beautiful woman he had ever laid his eyes on. The kind of beauty that didn't just catch your attention but completely held it captive.