The next few days passed in a whirlwind of training sessions, tactical meetings, and a growing sense of camaraderie with her new Atletico teammates. Yn quickly found herself fitting into the rhythm of Madrid, discovering new routines with Summer by her side and learning her way around her new team. The sense of freedom and a fresh start felt better with each day.
One evening, after an intense training session, Yn was stretching on the sidelines when Rasheedat jogged over, flashing a bright smile.
“So,” Rasheedat said, plopping down next to Yn, “how are you finding life here?”
Yn grinned, pulling her knee to her chest. “Honestly? I’m loving it. There’s something about this place that just...it feels right.”
“Good to hear,” Rasheedat nodded, tossing her water bottle back and forth. “We’re glad to have you. And I’m excited to see how you play in a real game.”
Yn raised an eyebrow, giving a slight smirk. “Careful, you might regret that. I’ve been known to surprise people on the field.”
“Oh, I’m counting on it!” Rasheedat laughed, giving her a playful nudge. “Just don’t go too easy on us in training, or we’ll never be ready for the matches.”
They both laughed, and Yn felt a warmth spread through her. It was reassuring to know her new teammates were not just open to her presence, but actively rooting for her to succeed.
---
Later that evening, Yn returned to the hotel to find Summer sprawled on the couch, flipping through Spanish TV channels with little success.
“Welcome back!” Summer greeted her cheerfully. “Anything good on?”
Yn shook her head, rolling her eyes. “It’s mostly reruns of dramas, but I think I’m getting the gist. Spanish lessons courtesy of telenovelas?”
Summer snorted. “Not a bad plan, honestly. But I’d rather get out and explore Madrid with you tomorrow if you’re up for it.”
Yn’s face lit up. “Yes! I haven’t had a real chance to look around yet.”
“Perfect. We can hit up that café we spotted near Plaza Mayor, maybe do some shopping…” Summer’s voice trailed off as she noticed Yn’s thoughtful expression.
“You know,” Yn began, looking down at her hands, “I’ve been thinking. If this loan goes well, and I really like it here… I wonder if I’d consider making a permanent move.”
Summer’s eyes widened, clearly caught off guard. “Wait, are you serious?”
Yn shrugged, a bit shy. “I mean, it’s just a thought. I love Arsenal, and London will always be my home. But something about this city, this team—it feels like I’m exactly where I need to be.”
Summer reached over, squeezing Yn’s hand. “Well, whatever you decide, I’m with you. But maybe give it a bit of time? We’ve only just started this chapter.”
Yn smiled, reassured by Summer’s support. “You’re right. Let’s see how it goes.”
---
The next morning, Yn and Summer set off to explore Madrid. The air was crisp, and the city buzzed with life as they wandered through historic streets, stopping for coffee, and taking pictures of the iconic architecture. Yn felt a sense of lightness she hadn’t felt in ages, like she could breathe deeply again.
As they walked through a busy market square, Summer pointed to a stall selling scarves in Atletico’s colors. She grinned and held one up to Yn. “Look, you’re already blending in. You have to get one!”
Yn laughed, taking the scarf and wrapping it around her neck. “You think it suits me?”
“Absolutely,” Summer nodded, giving her an appraising look. “You’re practically a local.”
They spent the day roaming around, enjoying Madrid’s vibrant culture, trying various tapas, and sharing quiet moments of laughter that Yn would treasure. The worries and stresses of the past months felt far away, and she savored every second of it.
---
A few days later, Yn found herself back on the Atletico training pitch, preparing for their first match of the season. She was buzzing with a mixture of excitement and nerves. This was her chance to show her new team what she could bring, to prove that she belonged here.
Manolo, the coach, clapped his hands together, gathering the players in a circle. “Alright, listen up! Yn, we’ll be looking to you to link up with Rasheedat on the left side. I want to see those quick combinations we practiced. No need to rush things; just play your game.”
Yn nodded, determined. “Got it, coach.”
As the team dispersed to warm up, Gio jogged over, grinning. “You ready for this? Big debut with Atletico—it’s a lot of pressure.”
Yn smiled, taking a deep breath. “I think so. It’s just… I want to make the right impression, you know?”
Gio chuckled. “Just be you. Trust me, if you play the way you did in training, they’re going to love you.”
---
When game day arrived, Yn found herself pacing the tunnel, trying to calm her nerves. She glanced at her teammates, many of whom offered reassuring smiles or nods, and she felt a surge of confidence.
Standing beside her, Rasheedat nudged her shoulder. “Ready to make some magic happen?”
Yn grinned, gripping the hem of her jersey. “Absolutely.”
As they walked onto the pitch, the stadium buzzed with energy. Yn looked around, her heart swelling with pride and excitement. This was her moment, her chance to start fresh.
The game began, and Yn quickly fell into the rhythm of play. She and Rasheedat worked together seamlessly, executing passes, creating space, and setting up plays. Yn felt more alive with each touch of the ball, her confidence growing as the game progressed.
In the second half, after a series of quick passes between her and Rasheedat, Yn found herself open just outside the box. She took a deep breath, focused on her target, and struck the ball cleanly. It soared past the goalkeeper and into the net.
The stadium erupted, and Yn felt her teammates rushing toward her, congratulating her with hugs and pats on the back.
“That was brilliant!” Rasheedat shouted, beaming. “You’re a natural here!”
Yn laughed, her heart pounding with joy. “Thanks, couldn’t have done it without you!”
As they returned to their positions, Yn caught sight of Summer in the stands, cheering with a huge smile on her face. She gave a small wave, feeling a rush of warmth. This was exactly where she was meant to be.
---
After the game, Yn and Summer met back at the hotel. Summer enveloped her in a hug as soon as she walked through the door.
“You were amazing out there!” Summer gushed. “You looked like you’d been playing with them forever.”
Yn smiled, taking off her jacket and sitting beside her. “It felt like it, honestly. I think this move was the best thing I could have done.”
Summer nodded, looking thoughtful. “You know, I think Madrid suits you more than I realized. You’re…happy here.”
Yn looked down, absorbing her words. “I am. I think for the first time in a long time, I feel like myself again.”
Summer reached out, taking Yn’s hand in hers. “Well, whatever you decide, I’m with you every step of the way.”
Yn squeezed her hand, gratitude filling her heart. “Thank you, Summer. For everything.”
They spent the evening reliving the game, planning future adventures, and dreaming of all that lay ahead. Yn knew that whatever came next, she was ready for it. Madrid was only the beginning, and she was determined to make the most of every moment.
