Good Luck, Babe! - Leah Williamson

27. In My Feelings

Ella's POV.

A few days later, it's match day. The energy at Kingsmeadow is electric, but it's different for me today. As usual, I'm here early, setting up for Chelsea's match. The stadium is buzzing with excitement, but my mind keeps drifting. The game is about to kick off, but all I can think about is Leah.

She's playing away today with Arsenal, and while I'm still focused on my work here, a part of me is already picturing her somewhere out there on the field, playing hard, doing what she loves. She's so passionate about it, and it's one of the many things I admire about her. I just hope she's safe and that they're doing well.

My phone buzzes, snapping me out of my thoughts. It's Leah.

Leah ❤️
Game just finished! It was a tough one, but we got the win. Heading back now. What's going on with you?

I can't help but smile at her text. Even though we're both busy, it feels comforting to stay connected in little ways. I quickly type back:

Me
Glad to hear it, babe, I'm always so proud of you! Chelsea's game is about to start. Should be wrapping up by the time you're back, yeah? I'll be waiting for you.

I hit send and watch the clock tick down as the teams line up for the match. I can hear the buzz of the crowd getting louder, but the noise in my head is a bit louder today. It's the anticipation of seeing Leah again, of reconnecting after our busy schedules, of sharing our little moments again.

I get back to work, but every so often, I check my phone for another message from her.

Leah ❤️
We're on our way back from Crawley now. Can't wait to see you. Miss you.

My heart skips a beat. It's a simple message, but it means the world to me. She misses me. After all the uncertainty we've been through, it feels like we're back on solid ground. We've found our rhythm again, and I'm hoping it stays this way.

I settle into my seat as the game kicks off. I'm trying to focus on the match, but my thoughts keep drifting. I can't help but wonder how Leah is doing. I know she's probably replaying every moment of the game in her head, thinking about what she could've done better, but I also know she's probably exhausted, just like I will be after this match.

The minutes tick by, and I find myself watching the clock, counting down the time until Leah is back. I can't wait to hear her voice, feel her close again. It's funny—how our moments apart make you realise just how much you can miss someone.

The game moves quickly, and before I know it, the final whistle blows. The match is over, and I pack up my things, eagerly checking my phone again. No new messages.

Me
Are you back yet?

I send it, trying not to overthink, trying not to wonder if I'm being too eager. I've been waiting for this moment, this reconnection, and I don't want to rush it. Just as I'm about to leave, my phone buzzes once more.

Leah ❤️
Be back soon. I've missed you, El.

My heart skips a beat, and I let out a quiet laugh, looking around the emptying stands, suddenly feeling like I'm the only person in the stadium.

Me
Can't wait to see you, babe. I'll be waiting.

I send the message, slipping my phone into my pocket as I make my way out of the stands, my anticipation building.

Me
You're coming straight to mine, right?

Leah ❤️
Yeah, I might be a bit smelly though 😬

I laugh softly, shaking my head. She always manages to make me smile, even on the busiest days.

Me
I don't care, babe. You can shower at mine. I'll make sure there's something comfy for you to wear after.