Alessia wishes it could be beautiful, like in those trashy romance novels her mum likes. She wishes it could be flowers and kisses after hard matches and butterflies swirling in her stomach. Instead, it's whispered confessions in the dead of night. It's cold, empty nights and disbelieving looks. it's a bitter pit of jealousy in her stomach, festering like some kind of mould, growing and burning. The facts are this: Alessia Russo is a star striker for England, finally promoted from super-sub to regular starter. She has England at her feet, a World Cup to win, and the best friend (and team) of her dreams. She has been in completely, utterly love with said best friend for years.