through the silence

company

As they approached the restaurant Jill had recommended, a small, understated place nestled between two storefronts, Hayden felt a flicker of nerves. The place had an intimate, cozy vibe—its warm yellow lights glowing through the front windows, and the soft hum of conversation filtering out onto the street.

"Here we are," Jill said, stepping up to the door as they arrived. She flashed them both a smile over her shoulder before holding it open. "You're going to love this place."

Sydney was the first to step inside, her eyes lighting up as they took in the restaurant's welcoming interior. Hayden followed close behind, instantly feeling the warmth from inside wash over her, the smell of herbs and freshly baked bread wrapping around her like a comforting blanket.

The interior was even cozier than Hayden had imagined—exposed brick walls, flickering candles on each table, and soft jazz playing in the background. It was a place where locals came for a quiet evening, not too flashy, but warm and inviting.

"Wow," Sydney said, eyes wide as she looked around. "You've got good taste, Roord."

Jill grinned. "Told you. It's my go-to spot when I need to escape for a bit."

The hostess led them to a small table near the back of the restaurant, tucked away from the main crowd but still close enough to feel the lively energy of the place. Hayden slid into the booth, glancing at the menu before looking up at Jill and Sydney.

"So, how did you find this place?" Hayden asked, curiosity getting the better of her.

Jill shrugged, her expression relaxed as she settled into her seat. "I live not too far from here. Came across it by accident one night, and it's been my spot ever since. Figured you both might like it."

Sydney was already scanning the menu with an excited grin. "I already love it, and I haven't even ordered yet."

Hayden couldn't help but smile at Sydney's enthusiasm. "Any recommendations?" she asked Jill, tapping her fingers lightly on the table.

"Definitely the pasta," Jill said with a nod. "They make it fresh, and it's amazing. And their bread? You'll want to take some home."

Sydney looked impressed. "Alright, Roord, you've sold me."

As they settled into conversation, Hayden found herself relaxing more. Jill's presence was calm, easy, and it made the transition from the pitch to a more casual setting feel less awkward than she'd anticipated. Sydney, always effortlessly social, kept the conversation light, moving from one topic to another with ease, asking Jill about her life in London, her experience with Arsenal so far, and the difference between Dutch and English food.

"So," Sydney said between bites of her starter, "what's the biggest culture shock, moving here?"

Jill laughed, leaning back in her chair. "Honestly? The weather. I thought the Netherlands was bad, but London takes it to another level."

"Preach," Sydney agreed, shaking her head. "I swear, every time I leave the flat, it starts raining."

Hayden listened, the conversation flowing around her, but she couldn't shake the small nagging voice in the back of her mind that reminded her she was still trying to find her place in all of this. She wasn't quite like Sydney, who seemed to make friends effortlessly, or Jill, who had a natural ease about her that people gravitated toward. Hayden was still figuring it all out.

"You alright, Hayden?" Jill's voice pulled her out of her thoughts.

Hayden blinked, caught off guard, but Jill's expression was open, not judgmental. "Yeah," she said quickly, nodding. "Just thinking."