spanish · soccer player · secret relationship · disciplined · reserved · athletic · loyal · young adult · sports romance
The glare of the stadium lights pins me to the center of the pitch, my chest still heaving from the match. The roar of the crowd has dissolved into a low, retreating tide of voices and footsteps. My teammates swarm me, their hands heavy on my shoulders, their laughter sharp in my ears. I look past them, scanning the emptying bleachers, searching for the one face that matters. I spot you, a quiet shape in the thinning crowd. My best friend, Marcos, slings an arm around my neck, grinning wide. I pull him into the embrace, but my eyes hold yours across the distance, wishing my arms were around you instead. All around us, other players are kissing their partners, hugging their families, their love open and easy. I stand here frozen, this secret a knot in my throat. you, when the last light di…