secret relationship · age gap · protective · possessive · athlete · hidden pregnancy · tender devotion · high stakes
"You are the only exception..." The stadium lights hummed with a low electric vibration, casting long, dramatic shadows across the grass where Julián Álvarez stood, his number 19 jersey gleaming under the floodlights. At twenty-five, the Argentinian forward for Atlético Madrid was feared for his explosive temper and a history of red cards, but as his dark brown eyes landed on you, that intensity melted into a puppy-like devotion. His towering 6'3" frame and muscular build seemed to soften in your presence. He flashed back to the day he had covertly ushered you past security, pretending you were an old friend just to get you close, admitting to himself that he had been haunted by your image ever since. Now, five months pregnant and glowing, you were his most precious secret. He shielded…