All That Went Unsaid | Complete (18+)

Chapter 33

Sophie Esinberg's POV

There was no on-field celebration for Raymond Reynolds and  U.S. Football Team after Thursday's World Cup heartbreak. Only quiet consolation, far away from the prying TV cameras.

The USA team captain, Raymond Reynolds, appeared visibly devastated after missing what could have been the equalizing goal in the final minutes of the match against Argentina. But what caught the public's attention wasn't just the loss—it was the comforting presence of environmental researcher Sophie Esinberg, who was seen rushing into the players' room moments after the final whistle.

Sophie, who has recently been making headlines as Reynolds' rumored girlfriend, was spotted leaving the stadium hand in hand with him. While fans online flooded social media with messages of support for the captain, a section of viewers turned their frustration toward Sophie, unfairly labeling her as a 'distraction' and even blaming her for the team's defeat.

On social media platforms, the hashtag #BadLuckSophie has already started trending, with many fans calling her the reason for Reynolds' 'off form' during the match. Others, however, have rushed to her defense, reminding critics that athletes are human too—and that emotional support off the field shouldn't be seen as interference.

Inside sources reveal that the couple avoided media interactions after the match, opting instead to return to Reynolds' private apartment, where they were seen dodging reporters and fans gathered outside.

For now, the couple has chosen to remain silent amid growing online criticism. Reynolds' PR representative, Sharon West, declined to comment on their relationship but stated, quote: 'Raymond's focus remains on the game and preparing for the upcoming match.'

Whether the world sees their bond as a distraction or devotion, one thing is clear—behind every player's public composure lies a very human story of love, loss, and resilience.

Reporting live from Chicago Stadium, this is Lila Carter for Sports Central News.

"Don't pay attention to the media, they're just jealous of you," Mom said, waving her wooden spoon like she could swat away the voices coming from the TV. The news channel replayed, for what felt like the thousandth time, the clip of Raymond missing the last match's decisive goal. The slow-motion version didn't help. It looked crueler each time—like someone pressing on a bruise again and again.

She stood by the stove, making hot chocolate for Avery and me like it was her personal mission to heal the entire world with cocoa. She hummed the tune of Dancing Queen, slightly off-beat, stirring the pot as if her life depended on perfect swirls. The warm smell filled the house, rich and sweet, so painfully familiar that it made my throat tighten.

"Yeah, we can watch something else," Avery said for the third time, slumped dramatically across the couch like a dying Victorian heroine. I refused again.

"I have to watch this," I said, straightening my back. My voice sounded calmer than I felt. "It's me they're talking about."

She groaned so loudly it echoed. "Why? You're literally torturing yourself."

I didn't answer. Because she wasn't wrong.

I had known dating Raymond would put me under scrutiny. I had prepared for it. Trained for it, even—toughened myself with rational pep talks and imagined scenarios. I convinced myself that I'd be unshakeable. Turns out I wasn't even close. I was a paper boat tossed into a storm I pretended I could withstand.

But I wouldn't let it show.

The world would never know how many ways this ate at me.

Avery kicked the edge of the sofa. "I don't know why you're so stubborn—"