Best Mistake ︱Pedri González

1

July 2028 

Luciana's Pov

The office was buzzing with the usual clamor of keyboards and ringing phones, but today, the chatter of FC Barcelona's social media team seemed to carry an edge of excitement that I hadn't quite experienced before. I glanced at the clock on my desk—4:45 PM. Just fifteen more minutes until the end of the workday. I couldn't wait to head home, drop my work gear, and sink into the familiarity of Dante's embrace.

"Luciana, do you have a minute?" Valeria's voice cut through my thoughts, pulling me back to reality. She stood in the doorway, her bright eyes and infectious smile a welcome sight.

"Of course, Valeria. What's up?" I asked, pushing aside the thoughts of Pedri and Esther that had been creeping into my mind more frequently lately.

"I need your opinion on this post for the upcoming match," she said, walking over to my desk with her tablet in hand. She slid it toward me, and I scanned the draft. It was a dynamic graphic celebrating the team's latest victory.

"It looks great," I said, nodding in approval. "But maybe add a bit more emphasis on the players' achievements. Fans love that kind of detail."

Valeria beamed. "Thanks! I knew I could count on you. So, how's Dante? I heard he's been working on some big projects lately."

"He's good, keeping busy," I replied, forcing a smile. "He's been so supportive of me during this transition. Honestly, I'm grateful to have him."

As Valeria and I continued discussing work, I couldn't help but think back to where I was two weeks ago, at Pedri and Esther's wedding. The day was still fresh in my mind, a vivid reminder of what could have been. I had hoped that the past was behind me, but the memories lingered, and the what-ifs haunted me more than I cared to admit.

"Hi Luci, can we talk?" Mikky's voice brought me back to the present. She and Frenkie had been my close friends for years, and Mikky's blend of warmth and practicality made her a confidante I cherished.

"Sure, Mikky. What's up?" I asked, trying to sound more interested than I felt.

Mikky glanced around the office, then lowered her voice. "I know it's been a while since the wedding, but how are you holding up? I've been meaning to ask."

I sighed, leaning back in my chair. "It's been... a lot. Seeing Pedri and Esther together—happy and married—it's hard not to think about what could have been. I still can't shake the feeling that I should have been the one standing there with him."

Mikky's expression softened. "I can't imagine how tough that must be. But you're doing amazing things now. You're with FC Barcelona's social media team, you're building a new life, and Dante's been a rock. It's okay to have these feelings, but don't forget how far you've come."

"Thanks, Mikky," I said, feeling a bit lighter. "I'm trying to focus on the positive. This job change was something I needed. I loved being a track star, but I wanted a new challenge, and this job is exactly that."

As we spoke, the office door swung open, and in walked Valeria's boyfriend, Jake, with a grin on his face. "Hey, everyone. Ready for tonight's dinner?"

I raised an eyebrow. "Tonight's dinner?"

Jake nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah, we're heading to that new tapas place downtown. Mikky and Frenkie are coming too. You guys should join us."

Valeria looked at me with a hopeful expression. "What do you think, Luciana? It'll be fun. A night out might be just what you need."

I hesitated for a moment, then smiled. "Sure, why not? I could use a break."

"Great!" Jake said, clapping his hands. "I'll see you all there at seven."

As the clock ticked closer to five, I finished up my tasks and packed my things. Valeria and Mikky chatted excitedly about the evening's plans while I gathered my coat and keys.

"I'm heading out now," I said, slipping my coat on. "I'll see you guys tonight."

"See you later!" Valeria called as I made my way to the exit.

When I arrived home, Dante was already there, sprawled on the couch with his laptop. He looked up with a smile as I walked in. "Hey, how was your day?"

"Busy, as usual," I replied, dropping my bag on the floor and flopping down beside him. "But it's all good. We're going out for dinner with friends tonight. Jake invited us."

Dante raised an eyebrow. "Lets hope he doesnt do anything stupid."

I chuckled. "I don't think he will. But you never know with him. He's always full of surprises."

As we got ready for the evening, I tried to push aside the lingering thoughts of Pedri and Esther. Tonight was supposed to be about enjoying time with friends and appreciating the life I was building with Dante.

We arrived at the tapas restaurant, and the vibrant atmosphere instantly lifted my spirits. The place was buzzing with laughter and conversation, and the aroma of delicious food filled the air.

"Luciana! Dante!" Valeria called out, waving us over to the table. "We've got a spot right here."

Jake greeted us with a grin and a hearty hug. "Glad you could make it. I've ordered a few rounds of tapas already. Hope you're hungry."

As we settled in and started to enjoy the food, the conversation flowed easily. We talked about everything from the latest Barça news to our favorite holiday destinations. It was a welcome distraction from the emotional whirlwind I had been feeling lately.

"So, Luciana," Frenkie said, lwith his arm around Mikky. "How's the social media job treating you?"

"It's been great," I replied. "It's definitely different from my previous career, but I'm enjoying the challenge. It's a whole new world, but I'm getting the hang of it."

"Glad to hear it," Mikky said, raising her glass. "To new beginnings and the amazing people we've become."

We all toasted, and I felt a surge of gratitude for the friends I had around me. They had been there for me through thick and thin, and their support meant everything.

As the night wore on, and we enjoyed dessert, Jake leaned in with a knowing smile. "So, Luciana, I heard you've been doing great with the social media team. Any chance you'll be working on something special for the upcoming match?"

I grinned. "Actually, yes. We've got some exciting content planned. I'm really looking forward to it."

Valeria raised her eyebrows playfully. "And don't forget, Luciana. You've got fans cheering for you on and off the field."

I laughed. "Thanks, Valeria. I appreciate that."

As we said our goodbyes and left the restaurant, I felt a sense of contentment that I hadn't experienced in a while. The evening had been a welcome reminder of the positive aspects of my life.

Dante and I walked hand in hand back to our apartment. The city lights twinkled around us, and for a moment, I allowed myself to enjoy the peace.

"Tonight was nice," Dante said, squeezing my hand. "It's good to get out and spend time with friends."

"It really was," I agreed. "And thanks for being here for me. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Dante smiled warmly. "You don't have to worry about that. I'm here, and I always will be."

As we arrived home, I realized that while the echoes of the past still lingered, I had a life filled with love, friendship, and new beginnings. The road ahead might be uncertain, but for now, I was ready to embrace it with open arms, knowing that I had the strength to face whatever came my way.