The World (Sequel to International)

For Now

August 2026

Mapi's POV:

Our honeymoon was nice and relaxing. We went to Portugal and then just went around Europe. It was nice to go to countries we've been too before but actually got able to explore this time. 

Now I was back in Barcelona for the start of preseason. "Where's Mariana?" Leila asked.

"She had something to take care of in Portugal. She'll be here in a few days." I smiled. "So how's that?" I nodded my head toward Mariona.

"We're going out to dinner this weekend." She smiled. "Things are changing Mapi."

"Sometimes change is good though."

"Unless your girlfriend goes to a new team without telling you." Alexia crossed her arms.

"IT WAS ONE TIME!" Jenni yelled. We all laughed. "I came back! Eventually."

"How's married life?"

"Good. She's been in Portugal a lot since we got back from the honeymoon. Few training camps with the national team and a couple of meetings. She's coming back though." 

The days went on and eventually, Mariana returned to Barcelona. "Mari!" Patri waved. 

She looked up and started to head over. One of our managers walked over and grabbed her, pulling her away.

"That's fine. I didn't want to see my friend anyway." Patri put her hand and head down.

Leila patted her shoulder.

Mariana didn't return to the field. We finished up there and headed to the weight room, that's where she finally walked in.

And she looked very upset.

"What happened?" I asked. She shook her head and then walked out. 

I got up to follow her. "Mapi. Finish your set."

"But Mari-"

"Finish your set."

I sighed and got back to work. 

Before

Mariana's POV:

I got back to Barcelona and was finally going to join the team for preseason. 

 "Mari!" Patri waved.

I looked up and started to head over. A manager came over.

"Mariana. Can you come with me please?"

"Sure." I walked away with him. I sat in the office while they finished up a phone call. 

"You like playing here?"

"Yeah, I love it."

"But it's not home."

"Well no, but it's become home." I smiled. 

"Ponta Delgada is your home, yes?" I nodded. "They have a new team." I nodded again. "They approached you over the summer."

"Yes, and I turned them down," I said. "That's why I was in Portugal for so long. Well, and visiting my grandmother. She's getting older. But I thanked them for showing interest in me and politely declined. Barca is the best fit for me right now." 

He nodded and looked at the other people in the office. "We're happy to hear that. Very happy. We love having you here. Again we've wanted you here for years. Ponta Delgada contacted us yesterday. Still very set on bringing you to the squad." I nodded. "And we have reached an agreement. You will train with us today and tomorrow. Play in our last preseason match against Real Sociedad. Then you will fly to Ponta Delgada and join Santa Clara on loan for the season."