Yn arrived at Arsenal's training ground that afternoon with a wide grin on her face. The news about her international call-up was still fresh, and she couldn't wait to share it with the team. As she walked into the locker room, she spotted Katie, Leah, and a few others chatting, and she quickly made her way over.
"Hey, everyone!" Yn called out, her excitement palpable.
Katie turned around, her eyes scanning Yn's face. "You look like you've won the lottery or something. What's up?"
Yn beamed. "Actually, kind of! I've just been called up for the international friendlies against Germany and Ireland!"
The room fell silent for a moment before the cheers erupted. Katie raised her eyebrows and grinned. "Oh, so I might have to face you when England plays Ireland, huh? That's going to be fun!" she joked, giving Yn a playful nudge.
Yn laughed. "Bring it on, Katie! I'll be ready for you."
Leah stepped forward, her smile genuine. "That's amazing, Yn! I'm so happy for you. You've worked so hard for this."
"Thanks, Leah," Yn said, her heart swelling with pride. "It feels unreal."
Leah's smile softened. "So how's Summer? I haven't seen her around lately."
Yn nodded. "She's actually at a photoshoot for a brand today. She's been super busy with that."
Leah raised her eyebrows. "Busy, huh? Sounds like she's doing pretty well."
"She is," Yn replied with a smile. "She's been amazing, supporting me through everything."
With that, the group shifted gears, and training officially started. It was a solid session, full of energy and focus, with everyone gearing up for the match the next day against Liverpool Women. Yn felt lighter than usual, her movements sharper, her mind focused on the task ahead. She couldn't help but feel a little more motivated, especially with the international call-up hanging over her head.
---
Training ended in the late afternoon, and as the players started heading out, Yn decided to head home. She couldn't wait to see Summer, but as she walked through the door, she found the apartment still empty. Summer wasn't back yet.
"Well, I guess I'll make us some dinner," Yn muttered to herself, slipping off her boots and heading toward the kitchen. She decided on something simple but comforting-pasta. She hummed as she set to work, the soothing rhythm of cooking giving her a moment of calm after the excitement of the day.
About an hour later, Summer finally walked through the door, looking exhausted but happy. "Hey, sorry I'm late," she said, taking off her coat and throwing it over the chair.
"No problem," Yn smiled, standing up from the counter. "I made pasta for us. I thought we could eat together."
Summer's eyes lit up. "I could definitely use some food. I'm starving."
They sat down at the kitchen table, enjoying the meal in the cozy warmth of their apartment.
"So," Yn said between bites, "I'm leaving pretty early tomorrow morning for the game. It's in Liverpool, so I'll be heading out with the team."
Summer nodded, her voice thoughtful. "I actually have some news too. I'll be leaving early as well-I'll be at Anfield, watching the game with my family."
Yn's eyes widened. "You're coming to watch me play?"
"Of course!" Summer smiled, her eyes softening. "I wouldn't miss it for anything."
Yn smiled back, feeling her heart swell with affection. "I'm so lucky to have you cheering me on."
"Right back at you," Summer replied. "I'll be there, supporting you every step of the way."
---
The next day, Yn and the rest of the Arsenal squad arrived at Anfield, ready to take on Liverpool Women. The energy in the stadium was electric, and Yn couldn't help but feel a thrill at the thought of playing in such a historic venue. She spotted Summer in the stands with her family, giving her a wave before turning her attention back to the game.
The match kicked off, and Arsenal quickly took control. In the 15th minute, Alessia Russo put the team ahead with a goal, and soon after, Yn found herself in the perfect position for a header. She leaped into the air, connecting with the ball and sending it into the net, doubling Arsenal's lead.
"Yes!" Yn shouted, running toward the corner flag. She struck a pose, her signature celebration, and heard the roar of the crowd.
Leah Williamson added a third goal in the 27th minute, courtesy of a perfectly placed corner by Katie McCabe. The first half ended 3-0, with Arsenal firmly in control.
---
The second half began, and Arsenal continued to dominate. But in the 58th minute, disaster struck. Liverpool launched a counterattack, and one of the Liverpool players went in for a tackle, catching Yn slightly on her ankle.
Yn winced, the pain shooting up her leg, but she managed to stay on her feet as the medics rushed onto the field. They examined her quickly and, after a brief discussion, gave her the all-clear to continue playing.
"You're okay to keep going," the medic said, but both she and manager Renee agreed it would be wise to sub her off as a precaution, considering the upcoming games.
"Alright," Yn said, nodding. "I'll come off."
Steph Catley replaced her on the field, and Yn hobbled off, trying to hide the discomfort in her step. The team kept the pressure on, and the game ended 3-0 in Arsenal's favor.
After the final whistle, Yn made her way down the tunnel, but before she could get too far, she was greeted by Summer, who rushed over to check on her.
"Yn, are you okay?" Summer asked, concern written all over her face.
"Yeah, I'm fine. It's just a precaution. The medics said I'm good, just a little sore," Yn reassured her, giving her a small smile.
Summer looked relieved. "Good, because I was really worried for a second there."
After a quick hug, Summer introduced Yn to her family, who had come down to congratulate her. "We're so proud of you," Summer's mom, Christiane, said, giving Yn a warm hug.
"Thank you so much," Yn replied, grateful for the support.
With the celebration over, Yn knew it was time to head back to the locker room. She gave Summer one last smile before heading down the tunnel to join her teammates.
The win was important, but Yn couldn't help but feel that her journey was just beginning. The international call-up was only the start, and with Summer by her side, she felt more confident than ever in what the future held.
