Court and Pitch
Alessia Russo x wnba!reader
Word count:Around 13k
Warning:angst, use of the word “soccer”, light homophobia.
Based on this request.
Ever since joining the Los Angeles Sparks not too long ago, your notoriety has only grown. At just 22, you’ve become one of the WNBA’s brightest stars, lighting up every court you step on.
The fans have embraced you as a basketball phenomenon, and your name is constantly buzzing in the sports world.
You’ve earned the reputation of being one of the most fierce competitors and rookie in the league. On the court, you’re known for your confidence—no, scratch that—your cockiness, and everyone loves it. It’s like you thrive on the attention.
The world sees you as this larger-than-life figure, strutting across the hardwood as if you own every inch of it. And to be fair, you kind of do.
There’s no shot you don’t believe you can make, no defender you think you can’t break down. When you're on the floor, there’s an undeniable swagger in your step, a smirk that lets everyone know you’re in charge.
Take tonight’s game, for example. The arena is packed, fans decked out in purple and gold, chanting your name as the clock ticks down. The Sparks are up by ten, but you're far from done making a statement.
“Hey, get ready to watch some magic,” you say to Cameron, one of your teammates and friends during a time-out, grinning as you catch your breath.
“Y/N, you know they hate it when you talk like that, right?” Cameron laughs, shaking her head.
You shrug with a playful smirk. “They hate it because they know it’s true.”
As you jog back onto the court, the crowd roars louder, and you can feel their eyes on you, expecting something spectacular.
With the ball in hand, you dribble up the court, staring down the defender in front of you. She’s been hounding you all game, but you can tell she’s losing steam.
“Is that all you got?” you tease, smirking as you cross the ball from one hand to the other. “This is about to get embarrassing for you.”
Without waiting for a response, you hit her with a quick crossover, your speed catching her off guard. You step back behind the three-point line, and with a fluid motion, you launch the shot. The crowd holds its breath.
Swish.
The crowd erupts, and you turn toward them, blowing a kiss with a wink as you jog back down the court. The other team calls for a timeout, clearly rattled, but you just laugh as you high-five your teammates.
One of your opponents walks by, shaking her head. “You’re too cocky for your own good.”
You flash her a grin. “Confidence, baby. You should try it sometime.”
This is what everyone sees—the confident, cocky Y/N who lights up the court and plays like she has something to prove.
The fans feed off your energy, loving every second of your fearless attitude. You know you’re good, and you don’t shy away from letting everyone know it.
You strut back to your bench with determination, pointing up at a section of fans holding signs with your name on them.
But off the court? That’s a whole different story. You’re not the larger-than-life, trash-talking superstar when the final whistle blows.
Away from the bright lights and roaring crowds, you’re quiet, reserved, and—if you’re being honest—kind of shy. But no one sees that. Everyone just assumes you’re as outgoing in real life as you are on the court.
Only a handful of people know the real Y/N. Your teammates, your family, and your close friends know that behind all the cockiness and confidence, you’re just someone who wants to be understood for who you are, not for the fame you’ve gained.
But for now, you play your part. “Good game,” you say with a grin after the final buzzer, slapping hands with the opposing team.
They know it’s all in the spirit of competition, and they walk away with smiles despite the loss.
As you head off the court, the media rushes to you, microphones and cameras shoved in your face. You flash your signature smile, the one everyone expects, and prepare to play your role once again.
——
“Do I really have to go?” you asked, frustration seeping into your tone as you adjusted your outfit for the sports event in London tonight.
“Yes, you do,” Emma snapped, not even looking up from her phone. “And stop making this harder than it needs to be. We need to maintain your image.”
You rolled your eyes. “I’m just not sure why I have to go to every single event. I’d rather stay home and relax.”
Emma sighed, finally glancing up at you. “Because it’s part of the job. You’re not just a player; you’re a brand. And brands need to be seen. Now, can you please smile and pose for these photos? We need content for social media.”
She thrust her phone at you, expecting you to strike a pose. You forced a smile, trying to ignore the growing frustration in your chest. “Do you ever think about what I want? I mean, I’m tired of all this. It’s like I’m just a product.”
Emma’s expression hardened. “This is part of the deal. You signed up for this. Your career depends on it. You know how much is riding on maintaining this image.”
“I get that,” you said, “but I’m not just a brand. I’m a person. And right now, it feels like I’m being suffocated by all this.”
Emma’s eyes narrowed as she fixed the angle of her phone. “Well, we can’t afford to let your personal issues affect your public image. People expect a certain persona from you, and it’s my job to make sure that’s what they get.”
“Even if it means I have to keep hiding who I really am?” you challenged.
Emma’s gaze was cold. “Yes, even if it means that. It’s about protecting your career, not your personal comfort. We have to think long-term here.”
You felt a pang of frustration and sadness. “But why does it have to be like this? Why can’t I just be myself?”
Emma didn’t miss a beat. “Because being yourself isn’t always marketable. And right now, we need to focus on what sells. Just play your part tonight, and we’ll get through this.”
You sighed, knowing there was no point in arguing further. “Fine. Let’s just get this over with.”
Emma nodded, her expression softening slightly. “Good. I’ll make sure to get some great shots. And remember, just smile and engage with the fans. That’s what they want to see.”
As you forced a smile for the camera, you couldn’t shake the feeling of being trapped in a role that wasn’t truly yours. The pressure to conform was weighing heavily on you, and the freedom to be yourself felt more elusive than ever.
Upon arriving at the event, you stick close to your teammates, hoping to avoid conversations with strangers. The room is buzzing with athletes, journalists, and influencers, making it feel overwhelming.
You long for the quiet comfort of your LA apartment, where you can be yourself without the weight of expectations pressing down on you.
Standing by the bar and absently swirling your drink, you notice someone approaching. Tall, blonde, and instantly recognizable—it’s Alessia Russo, the star of Arsenal’s women’s football team. You’ve seen her play and know she’s incredible. But why is she coming toward you?
“Hey, Y/N, right?” Alessia smiles warmly, her tone casual and friendly. You feel a surge of nerves.
“Um…Yeah…it’s me Y/N, um… hi,” you stuttered, and you mentally slapped yourself for being so awkward.
The confidence you project on the court seems to vanish in this unfamiliar setting.
Alessia’s eyes light up with curiosity. “I’m Alessia. I’ve heard so much about you. I just wanted to introduce myself. I’m a big fan.”
You shift uncomfortably, feeling the weight of her gaze. “Um….yes I heard about you too and thanks… I guess,” you reply, trying to muster a smile but feeling awkward.
You don’t typically open up easily, especially not to strangers who seem to be interested in you because of your fame.
Alessia looks at you with a hint of amusement. “I didn’t expect you to be so shy. On TV, you’re so confident and fierce.”
You raise an eyebrow, puzzled. “What- um.. What do you mean?”
“Well,” Alessia begins, leaning casually against the bar, “you seem more down-to-earth than what the media portrays. It’s refreshing to see someone so genuine. I get it, though. People have certain expectations of you, right?”
You find yourself relaxing slightly. She’s striking a chord. “Yeah, people definitely have expectations. Sometimes it feels like I’m just a product, not a person.”
Alessia’s smile widens. “I can imagine. It must be exhausting always being in the spotlight. I’m glad we’re having this chance to talk. You seem really different from how you’re presented in the media.”
As you start to open up, you realize Alessia isn’t just another fan; she’s actually interested in who you are beyond the public persona.
The conversation flows more easily, touching on sports, hobbies, and personal experiences. You find yourself laughing and sharing stories you usually keep to yourself.
Alessia asks about your life in LA and your favorite things to do when you’re not on the court. “What do you do to unwind after a tough game?” she inquires, genuinely interested.
“I usually just stay in,” you say, a bit hesitant. “Watch movies or read. I’m not really into the whole party scene.”
Alessia nods, understanding. “Me neither, honestly. I’d rather relax at home than deal with the chaos of events like this.”
The more you talk, the more at ease you feel. Alessia’s genuine interest and easygoing nature make it easier for you to let your guard down. You start to enjoy the conversation and find yourself opening up more than you anticipated.
As the evening progresses and the event starts winding down, Alessia leans closer. “I really enjoyed talking to you tonight. I’d love to stay in touch.”
You hesitate for a moment, unsure if you’re ready to let someone new into your life. But there’s something about Alessia’s kindness and sincerity that makes you want to take a chance. You hand her your phone, and she grins as she types in her number.
“Text me anytime,” she says with a twinkle in her eye. “I’d love to continue our conversation.”
You smile, feeling a mix of shyness and excitement. “Yeah, I will. Thanks for making tonight less overwhelming.”
As you watch Alessia walk away, you feel a flicker of hope that maybe, just maybe, you’ve found someone who understands you beyond the facade.
——
You did end up texting Alessia the next day—or more accurately, Cameron did it for you. After you told her you’d exchanged numbers with Alessia Russo, she immediately raised an eyebrow and smirked.
“So… are you going to text her?” she asked, lounging on the couch of your hotel room with a mischievous glint in her eyes.
“Yeah, yeah, I’ll do it” you mumbled, fiddling with your phone but making no move to actually open the message app.
Cameron narrowed her eyes, catching on instantly. “Uh-huh, sure you will.” She stood up and stretched lazily. “Hand it over.”
You blinked. “What? No way. I’ve got it.”
She was too fast for you, though. Before you could react, Cameron swiped your phone right out of your hands and darted toward the bathroom. “Cameron, no! Give it back!”
“Trust me, Y/N! You’ll thank me later!” she called, slamming the bathroom door behind her with a loud click.
You rushed over, pounding on the door. “Cameron, I’m serious! Don’t—open the door! You can't just text her!”
Inside, you could hear her typing away furiously. “Oh, relax. I’m just being your wingwoman, you’ll appreciate it. “Hey, Alessia…” she began narrating, laughing to herself.
“Stop it! I’ll text her on my own! Cameron, come on!” You banged on the door again, but the sound of her laughing only grew louder.
After a minute, the door creaked open just a sliver, and Cameron’s hand emerged, holding your phone. “There. Done. You’re welcome,” she said smugly as she tossed the phone into your hands.
You grabbed it, scanning the message she’d sent in horror:
*Hey, Alessia! This is Y/N. Hope you’re doing well :)*
You groaned. “You didn’t—”
Cameron grinned. “Oh, I did. Now you just sit back and wait.” She flopped onto the couch again, crossing her arms like she’d just won a battle.
You stared at the phone, heart racing. Moments later, it buzzed with a new notification. Alessia had responded:
*Hey, Y/N! So glad you texted! How’s everything going?*
Cameron shot you a look that said, “I told you so.”
You sighed, a reluctant smile creeping onto your face. “Fine, you win this round.”
You spent the next hour texting with Alessia, heart racing the entire time. Every time your phone buzzed, you’d glance at Cameron, who was sitting beside you on the couch, eagerly reading over your shoulder.
She was your lifeline, occasionally feeding you responses when you didn’t know what to say.
At one point, Alessia messaged, *Are you free tonight? Maybe we could grab dinner?*
You froze, staring at the screen, unsure how to respond. Your heart felt like it was about to jump out of your chest. You turned to Cameron, who had the biggest grin on her face.
“Oh. My. God,” Cameron gasped dramatically, clutching your arm. “She just asked you on a date! Alessia Russo wants to take you out on a date!”
“It’s not a date, Cam,” you said, trying to play it cool even though your voice cracked. “She just wants to hang out, you know? As friends.” You rolled your eyes, but even you didn’t believe what you were saying.
Cameron looked at you like you had just said the dumbest thing imaginable. “Uh-huh. Sure. 'Friends.' Y/N, she didn’t ask you to go play video games or grab a quick coffee. She asked you to dinner.At night.That's a date, babe.”
You flushed, trying to brush her off. “Whatever. It’s not like that.”
Cameron nudged you hard, nearly making you drop your phone. “Oh, come on, you're so oblivious! She’s a world-class soccer player who could hang out with anyone in London, but she's choosing to spend her evening with you. She’s definitely into you.”
You blinked at her, feeling your nerves spike again. “I mean… I guess? But what if it’s not that? What if she just wants to, like, talk about sports or something?”
Cameron burst out laughing. “Y/N, literally no one asks someone they barely know to dinner to talk about sports. She’s interested. Just admit it!”
You sighed, knowing she wasn’t going to let this go. “Fine. Let’s say it is a date—what am I supposed to do? I barely even know her!”
Cameron grinned devilishly, “That’s the whole point of a date! You get to know each other. Just be yourself. Except, you know, maybe a little less awkward.”
You glared at her, feeling heat creep up your neck. “Thanks for the pep talk,” you muttered sarcastically.
Cameron waved her hand dismissively. “Oh, come on, you know what I mean. Now hurry up and reply before she thinks you're ignoring her!”
With a deep breath, you typed out your response, letting Cameron proofread it before hitting send.
*Yeah, I’m free tonight. Dinner sounds good!*you sent, feeling a knot of anxiety in your stomach.
A few moments later, your phone buzzed again. *Great! I'll pick you up around 7. Looking forward to it.*
Alessia had added a little smiley face at the end, and your heart skipped a beat.
Cameron let out a high-pitched squeal. “I can’t believe it! Y/N has a date with a hot soccer player!”
“Cameron, stop!” you groaned, burying your face in your hands. “And I’m pretty sure they call it football here, not soccer.”
Cameron waved her hand dramatically. “Who cares what they call it? The point is, shy little Y/N is going on a date with a total babe! I have to tell the girls!” She started to jump up from the couch.
Your eyes widened in panic. “NO, CAM, DON’T!” You lunged for her arm, but she was already bolting toward the door, giggling like a maniac.
“You can’t stop me! This is huge news!” she shouted, running out of the room, leaving you standing there, horrified.
“Cameron!” you called after her, but it was too late. You could already picture the team group chat exploding with messages about your “date.” You sighed, rubbing your temples.
“Why do I even tell you things?” you muttered under your breath, already bracing yourself for the endless teasing you knew was coming.
——
After what felt like hours of trying on different outfits, you finally stood in front of the mirror, surrounded by half your team, who were far too invested in getting you ready. Each of them had an opinion, and no one could agree on anything.
“She has to look hot. It’s Alessia Russo, for crying out loud,” Aari said, holding up a sleek dress.
“No, she needs to be comfortable and herself,” Briana argued, handing you a more casual skirt and top combo.
“That skirt is cute,” Lex added, tilting her head in approval.
“No way, this dress is definitely cuter,” Aari shot back, shaking her head.
The entire process was exhausting, with voices overlapping and opinions clashing. You stood in the middle of it all, watching the chaos unfold, but deep down, you appreciated how much they cared.
Eventually, after what seemed like an eternal debate, the team finally came to an agreement on a simple but cute outfit.
A soft, fitted top with jeans that weren’t too flashy, paired with a jacket. It was you—comfortable but still stylish.
“Alright, let me finish up your makeup,” Aari said, gently blending in the last bit of bronzer. “You’re almost ready.”
You took a deep breath, trying to calm the nerves that were creeping in. As soon as Aari finished, your phone buzzed on the counter. It was a message from Alessia:
*Hey, I’m here.*
Your heart skipped a beat. “She’s here,” you announced, your voice a little shaky as you stood up quickly.
Instantly, everyone sprang into action, helping you put on your jacket and offering last-minute advice.
“Okay, Y/N, you’ve got this!” Cam grinned, holding the door for you. “Good luck on your date.”
You narrowed your eyes at her. “It’s not a date,” you grumbled, tugging at your jacket nervously.
“Uh, yes, it totally is,” Briana said with a knowing smirk, while Lex added, “You’re literally going to dinner with a hot soccer player. If that’s not a date, I don’t know what is.”
Cam nodded emphatically. “Right?! I mean, it’s Alessia Russo. You’re going on a date with a superstar. How cool is that?”
You rolled your eyes, trying to suppress a smile. “You guys are impossible.”
“Just be yourself,” Aari added, giving you a soft smile as she handed you your bag. “That’s who she’s into anyway.”
“Exactly,” Briana chimed in. “No need to be nervous. You’re Y/N, the coolest, most badass rookie player in the WNBA. If she doesn’t fall for that, then she’s got bad taste.”
You couldn’t help but laugh at their supportive banter. Even though they were teasing you, their words meant a lot.
It reminded you that no matter how overwhelming the spotlight could be, you had a team of people who genuinely had your back.
As you stood by the door, the girls cheered you on with playful shouts of encouragement.
“Go get her!” Cam shouted, clapping her hands.
“Remember, confidence! But not too much of your court attitude, okay?” Aari teased with a wink.
Feeling slightly more confident, you smiled at them one last time before stepping out into the night.
Their cheers echoed down the hallway, and despite your nerves, you couldn’t help but grin as you made your way to meet Alessia.
As you stepped out of the hotel, you spotted Alessia leaning against her sleek car, scanning the area. When she saw you approaching, her face broke into a warm, welcoming smile.
“Hey,” she greeted softly, pulling you into a gentle hug.
“Hi,” you replied, your voice barely above a whisper. She looked stunning, her long blonde hair cascading over her shoulders, and she was dressed similarly to you, wearing a puffy jacket to fend off the cold.
“Shall we go?” she asked, opening the car door for you. As she fumbled with the handle, she realized the door was locked and let out a nervous laugh. “Oops, looks like I locked the car,” she said, her cheeks flushing slightly as she tried again.
You couldn’t help but laugh at the situation. “No worries,” you said, trying to hide your amusement. “It happens.”
Alessia finally unlocked the door with a sheepish grin. “Thanks for being patient,” she said as you slid into the car.
The drive was smooth and relaxed. With soft music playing on the radio, you chatted casually. Alessia seemed to sense your nervousness and went out of her way to make you feel comfortable, easing the tension with her friendly demeanor and occasional playful comments.
——
The restaurant Alessia chose was perfect—a hidden gem that felt almost like a secret retreat from the world. The dim lighting, soft jazz music playing in the background, and the cozy ambiance created an intimate setting that immediately set you at ease.
As you both settled into your seats, Alessia flashed a warm, reassuring smile. “So, tell me something I don’t know about you,” she said, her tone light and inviting.
You chuckled nervously, “I’m not great at talking about myself. I usually prefer listening.”
Alessia raised an eyebrow playfully. “Oh, come on. I’m sure there’s more to you than what we see on the court. What’s something you’re passionate about outside of basketball?”
You hesitated for a moment, then took a deep breath. “Well, I really enjoy painting. It’s a way for me to unwind after a tough game. Not many people know that.”
Alessia’s eyes lit up. “Painting? That’s awesome. What do you like to paint?”
You found yourself opening up more as the conversation flowed. “Landscapes mostly. It’s calming to recreate scenes from nature. It’s the complete opposite of the high-energy game.”
Alessia nodded, genuinely interested. “I get it. I have a similar escape with photography. It’s a different way to see the world and capture moments.”
The conversation effortlessly shifted between your shared passions and life experiences. Alessia was remarkably adept at making you feel comfortable, her genuine curiosity and empathy shining through.
As the evening wore on, you found yourself disclosing more than you’d planned. “You know, Emma, my manager, is really strict about my public image. She even told me I couldn’t come out or share anything personal.”
Alessia’s gaze softened. “That sounds really tough. I can imagine how exhausting it must be to constantly juggle who you really are with the persona you’re expected to maintain.”
You nodded, feeling a mix of relief and vulnerability. “It is. Sometimes it feels like I’m trapped in this persona that everyone expects, and it’s hard to be authentic.”
Alessia reached across the table, gently placing her hand over yours. “You don’t have to pretend with me. I see you for who you really are—an amazing person who’s just trying to find their way amidst all the noise.”
The warmth of her touch sent a comforting shiver through you. “Thank you, Alessia. It means a lot to hear that from someone who gets it.”
As she stroked your knuckles softly, you felt an incredible sense of ease and connection. “You know,” Alessia continued, “the person I see now is so different from the confident player I see on TV. You’re genuine and kind, and it’s refreshing.”
You smiled, feeling more relaxed than you had in a long time. “It’s strange, but it’s also nice. I feel like I can be myself around you.”
The night continued in this intimate, relaxed manner. Alessia’s ability to make you feel at ease, her genuine interest in your life, and the way she saw past the public facade made the evening unforgettable.
It wasn’t just a dinner; it was a rare opportunity to connect on a deeper level, away from the pressures and expectations of the outside world.
As the night drew to a close, Alessia drove you back to your hotel, and, to your surprise, she even accompanied you to the lobby.
“So, when are you leaving London?” Alessia asked, her voice gentle but tinged with nervousness.
You glanced at her, feeling a mix of warmth and unease. “The day after tomorrow,” you replied.
Alessia fidgeted with her keys, her eyes darting around as if searching for the right words. “Well, um… would you maybe want to have breakfast with me tomorrow? It could be a breakfast date, or just breakfast. You know, it doesn’t have to be a date if you’re not into it.”
You stumbled over your own words, your nerves palpable. “Um… yeah, I’d love to. Whether it’s a breakfast date or just breakfast... I mean, if it’s a date, then that’s, uh, great too!”
Alessia let out a nervous laugh, her cheeks turning a soft pink. “Yes, it can be a breakfast date, just like tonight. Or, you know, like tonight’s dinner, but in the morning.”
You tilted your head, trying to decipher her words. “So, was tonight, like, a date?”
Her gaze dropped to the ground, and she mumbled, “Well, kind of. Or it could have been just dinner between friends. But, um, I was hoping it felt a bit more like a date?”
“Oh! No, it definitely felt like a date! ” you responded, your excitement bubbling over.
Alessia’s laughter was light and endearing, filled with nervous relief. “I’m glad you think so.”
A moment of awkward silence followed, with both of you avoiding eye contact. Finally, Alessia spoke up. “So, um, breakfast date tomorrow at 9? Is that good for you?”
You nodded eagerly, trying to mask your anxiety. “Yeah, 9 works great for me.”
“Perfect,” Alessia said, her eyes twinkling as she smiled. “I had a really lovely time tonight. I’ll pick you up at 9 then.”
She hesitated, leaning in slightly as if unsure, and then placed a soft, fleeting kiss on your cheek. Your face flushed bright red, and you could feel your heart racing.
“I’ll see you tomorrow, Alessia!” you managed to say, your voice a bit unsteady.
She smiled again, a little more confidently this time. “See you tomorrow.” With one last lingering look, she turned and walked away.
You watched her go, feeling both giddy and nervous. As you made your way to the elevator, you let out a deep, relieved sigh, your mind already racing with anticipation for the next day.
As you opened the door to your hotel room, your friends rushed in, their excitement palpable.
“How did it go?” Cameron asked, practically bouncing on her toes.
You grinned, recounting every detail of the evening. “It was amazing. Alessia and I went to this cozy restaurant, and we talked about everything from basketball to our lives outside the spotlight. She even asked me out for breakfast tomorrow.”
Cameron’s eyes widened. “Oh my gosh, you have a breakfast date with her? That’s incredible!”
The rest of the team crowded around you, their faces lit up with genuine happiness. “Tell us everything!” one of them exclaimed.
You laughed, describing how Alessia had been both charming and nervous, and how the evening had felt surprisingly comfortable despite the initial awkwardness. “She asked if it could be a date, and I was so flustered. I ended up saying it could be a date breakfast or just a regular one. It was really sweet and… kind of adorable.”
The room burst into cheers and playful teasing. “Y/N’s got another date!” Aari shouted.
Cameron, beaming, added, “I told you it was a date! I’m so glad you had a great time.”
Their enthusiasm was infectious, and you felt a wave of relief and happiness wash over you. Despite the nerves and the awkward moments, it had turned out to be a memorable evening.
“I’m really excited for tomorrow,” you said, smiling as you looked at your friends. “Thanks for being so supportive.”
“Of course! Now go get some rest—you have a big breakfast date ahead!” Cameron said, giving you a thumbs-up.
As you settled in for the night, you couldn’t help but replay the evening’s highlights in your mind, feeling grateful for the support and the unexpected connection with Alessia.
——
When Alessia got home, she immediately grabbed her phone and called her best friend Ella. Her excitement was palpable as she spoke.
“Ella, you will not believe how tonight went!” Alessia gushed into the phone. “Y/N is nothing like I expected. She’s actually really shy and so adorable. We had such a great time, and we’re going to have breakfast together tomorrow!”
Ella’s voice was filled with teasing delight. “Oh wow, someone’s smitten! I’m so happy for you, Alessia. You’ve got to tell me everything—what did you two talk about? Was it as magical as it sounds?”
Alessia laughed, her enthusiasm undiminished. “It really was. We talked about so much—her life, her struggles with being in the spotlight. She opened up more than I thought she would. It felt so natural and comfortable. I just can’t wait to see her again.”
After hanging up, Alessia settled into her bed, her mind buzzing with thoughts of the evening. She replayed their conversation, the way Y/N’s eyes lit up, and the soft laughter they shared. The anticipation of their breakfast date tomorrow made her smile as she drifted off to sleep, feeling a mix of excitement and contentment.
——
The next morning, Alessia picked you up promptly at 9, and instead of driving, you both decided to walk to the charming café she had chosen.
The crisp morning air was invigorating, and the short stroll allowed for easy conversation, setting a relaxed tone for the day.
As you walked side by side, you noticed how Alessia seemed to be both graceful and clumsy at the same time. A few times, she almost tripped over her own feet, her balance wavering with each misstep.
Once, she was so engrossed in conversation with you that she accidentally bumped into someone on the sidewalk. You both laughed, finding her small mishaps endearing.
When you arrived at the café, the quaint atmosphere was warm and inviting. The café had a cozy, intimate vibe, with soft lighting and comfortable seating. As you both sat down, Alessia's playful demeanor continued.
While reaching for her menu, Alessia’s fork slipped from her hand and clattered to the floor. She quickly bent down to retrieve it, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. “Oops, sorry about that,” she said, her voice tinged with a nervous laugh. “I guess I’m a bit of a klutz this morning.”
You couldn’t help but smile, finding her genuine and endearing. “It’s fine. It just makes the morning more memorable.”
Alessia laughed, clearly relieved by your easygoing reaction. “I’m glad you think so. It’s nice to be with someone who doesn’t mind my little mishaps.”
As you chatted over breakfast, you felt yourself becoming more comfortable. Alessia shared stories from her childhood and football career, her animated gestures and bright smile making her stories come alive. You found yourself laughing and relaxing more with each passing minute.
“Tell me more about your childhood,” you asked, intrigued by her stories. “What was it like growing up?”
Alessia’s eyes lit up. “Well, I grew up in a small town, and football was pretty much the center of my world. My family was always supportive, and I had a lot of fun playing with my friends.”
As the conversation flowed effortlessly, you began to feel more at ease, noticing how Alessia’s clumsiness seemed to add to her charm.
She dropped her fork again, this time catching it with a laugh. “I guess I’m just having one of those days,” she said, grinning.
You shook your head, amused. “Well, I think it just makes you even more endearing.”
Alessia leaned in, her gaze soft and sincere. “I’m really glad we’re getting to know each other like this. It feels so natural.”
You nodded, a smile spreading across your face. “Me too. It’s been a really great morning.”
After finishing breakfast, you both made your way back to the hotel. As you walked and talked, her hand brushed lightly against yours. You hesitated, feeling a flutter of anticipation.
You longed to take her hand, to feel the warmth of her touch. Tentatively, your fingers inched closer, and with a mix of hesitation and hope, you gently intertwined them with hers.
She looked at you with a soft, knowing smile, her fingers lacing securely with yours as she held your hand tightly.
The gentle pressure of her hand against yours felt both exhilarating and calming.
Your cheeks warmed with a soft blush, and you smiled tenderly as Alessia swayed your hands back and forth, a quiet rhythm that felt intimate and reassuring.
Arriving at the hotel, you walked Alessia to her car.
“I really enjoyed our date,” you said, your voice filled with genuine warmth, still holding her hand.
Alessia lifted your hand to her lips, pressing a gentle kiss on your knuckles before drawing you closer. Her eyes sparkled with affection as she spoke. “Me too. I don’t want this to end. I want to spend more time with you.” Her voice was a soft, earnest plea as she let go of your hand, wrapping her arms around your waist and pulling you against her.
“Is this okay?” she asked, her voice barely a whisper, her breath mingling with yours. You nodded, a bit shy but eager.
“I don’t want to leave either, but you have training and I have interviews,” you said, placing your hands tenderly on her shoulders.
She sighed softly, her gaze steady and hopeful. “Are you free tonight?”
“Yes,” you responded with a gentle nod.
“How about one last date before you leave for LA? I can’t cook, but we could order some food and watch a movie at my place,” she proposed, her confidence growing with every word.
You felt her fingers brush softly against your back, and you leaned into her embrace, feeling the warmth and comfort of her closeness.
“I’d love that,” you whispered, your voice filled with sincerity and affection.
Your faces were inches apart, and you could feel the warmth of her breath on your skin. She leaned in slowly, her eyes searching yours for permission. You nodded, and with a tender, deliberate motion, she closed the distance between you.
When your lips finally met, the kiss was soft and tentative, full of the unspoken emotions you both felt.
You wrapped your arms around her neck, pulling her closer, and felt her arms tighten around your waist in response. The world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of you in that perfect, fleeting moment.
It was unexpected to share your first kiss in a parking lot, but the location didn’t matter as much as the connection between you.
When you finally pulled away, you gazed into each other’s eyes, sharing one last gentle kiss. You could feel her smile against your lips, a tender, shared joy.
“I’ll see you tonight,” you said softly, pulling away with a smile that mirrored hers.
“See you tonight,” she replied, holding your hand for a lingering moment before letting go. You walked back to the hotel, your heart full and your face lit up with a beaming grin.
——
“What about this one?” Alessia asked, scrolling through Netflix as you both looked for a movie to watch.
After breakfast this morning, you had faced Emma’s reprimand for not being where you were supposed to be.
You had lied about your whereabouts, and now you were overwhelmed with a schedule packed with interviews, photoshoots, and other work commitments for the rest of the afternoon.
You hadn’t even had a chance to fully revel in the joy of your amazing date and first kiss with Alessia before being bombarded with work and Emma's demands.
The girls had been curiously probing about your date, and when you shared the details, they erupted into cheers and squeals, especially when you mentioned the kiss.
Throughout the day, Alessia and you stayed in touch through texts and discreet phone calls whenever you found a quiet moment. Her messages and calls provided a welcome escape and made the day pass more smoothly.
Now, you were in her cozy living room, having taken an Uber to avoid burdening her after her grueling training session.
You had ordered sushi, and the two of you enjoyed it together, laughing and sharing stories. The ease of conversation and shared laughter made the evening feel special.
Currently, you were curled up on her couch, a soft blanket draped over your lap as you both searched for a movie to watch.
“Yeah, sure, why not,” you replied, settling in and getting more comfortable. You were nestled close to her, your mind lingering on the kiss you had shared.
As the movie played, Alessia inched closer, her arm sliding around your shoulders and drawing you nearer. You rested your head on her shoulder, feeling a deep sense of contentment and warmth.
You reached for her free hand resting in her lap and intertwined your fingers with hers. The simple touch was incredibly soothing, providing a comforting escape from the stress of your day.
When the movie ended, it was late, and you knew it was time to head back to the hotel.
“I’m going to call an Uber,” you said, pulling out your phone and preparing to arrange your ride.
“No, no, no, I’m driving you,” Alessia insisted, taking your phone from your hand and heading towards the front door to grab her car keys.
“Alessia, it’s really okay. You must be tired. I don’t want you to drive me; go rest,” you said, reaching out to retrieve your phone, but she slipped it behind her back, making it out of reach.
“It’s okay; I want to. Plus, it’ll give us a bit more time together,” she said softly, her eyes meeting yours with a gentle intensity.
She then cupped your face in her hands, leaning in and capturing your lips in a tender kiss. You responded by wrapping your arms around her waist, pulling her closer and deepening the kiss.
When you finally pulled apart, she looked at you with a smile and said, “Let’s go,” unlocking the front door and leading you outside to her car.
In the car, as you drove, the reality of parting ways began to sink in, leaving you with a bittersweet feeling. The time spent with Alessia had been a refreshing break from your usual struggles and unhappiness. She had seen the real you and made those few days in London unforgettable.
Noticing your somber mood, Alessia placed her hand gently on your thigh, her touch soothing. You couldn’t help but smile at her comforting gesture.
As you arrived at the hotel, Alessia parked the car and immediately pulled you into a warm embrace. You buried your face in the crook of her neck, savoring her warmth and the closeness.
“I’m going to miss you a lot,” you admitted, your voice muffled against her skin.
“Me too,” she replied softly, her voice filled with genuine emotion.
You pulled back slightly and kissed her. The kiss began tenderly but quickly grew more passionate as your lips and tongues danced together. The intensity of the kiss conveyed the depth of your feelings.
After a few moments, you pulled away, and she smiled at you with a mixture of sadness and affection.
“We’ll text and call each other, okay? It’ll be challenging because of the time difference, but remember, you can call me anytime. I’ll always be here,” Alessia said, her thumb caressing your cheek.
“Okay, and you can call me too. I’ll always answer,” you promised, leaning into her touch and giving her another gentle kiss.
After sharing a few more soft kisses, you reluctantly parted ways. It was getting late, and Alessia needed to return home to rest for her early morning training.
You began walking away, turning to wave at her. She waved back and blew you a kiss, which you caught with a smile.
Both of you were surprised by how difficult it was to say goodbye after only three days, but it was clear that these brief moments together had created a meaningful connection.
——
You’ve been back in Los Angeles for four weeks now, and saying that you miss Alessia doesn’t even begin to cover it.
You’ve been texting and FaceTiming every day since you returned, but it’s been tough because both of you are busy and the time difference is a constant challenge.
Still, you’ve made it work. You’ve managed to have virtual dates where she’s having dinner while you’re having lunch. It’s not ideal, but you’ve made it work.
“I think I prefer the ponytail,” you told Alessia as she got ready for her training session.
It was midnight for you and 9 a.m. for Alessia. You were laying in bed, feeling the heavy pull of sleep but wanting to stay awake to see her.
“Okay, ponytail it is,” she said with a playful grin, pulling her hair into a neat ponytail before turning back to the screen. “You know, I love how you always notice the little things.”
She smiled at you with that warm, familiar look. “You should really go to sleep, love. You look like you’re about to fall over. I don’t want you to be sleepy on my account.”
You both had started calling each other cute nicknames, though you weren’t exactly sure where things stood. It was casual for now, but there was a lot of affection between you.
“I don’t want to miss any chance to talk with you,” you said, your eyes fluttering closed despite your efforts to stay awake.
Alessia giggled softly, her laughter a comforting sound. “Well, when you wake up, you can call me and we’ll continue our little chat. I’ll be having dinner, and you’ll be having breakfast. It’s like we’re having a date across time zones.”
“That sounds perfect,” you said with a yawn. “Have a great morning, babe.”
“And you have a wonderful night, baby,” she said soothingly, her voice a gentle lullaby. “Sleep tight, and dream of me.”
You managed a sleepy smile before the call ended. As you drifted off, you felt a warm sense of connection, eagerly anticipating the next time you’d be together.
——
Tonight, you had a match and were warming up with your team. Alessia had wished you good luck earlier, but sadly, she wouldn’t be able to watch since it was too late in England.
On the court, you focused on giving a stellar performance, brimming with confidence and cockiness. Naturally, you won the game.
As soon as the final whistle blew, Emma pounced on you like a hawk. “Great game, but don’t get too comfortable,” she said sharply. “You need to sign autographs, take photos, and then we have the press conference.”
You tried to catch your breath, but Emma was relentless. “Seriously, Emma? Can I have a minute to breathe?” you asked, your frustration evident.
Emma fixed you with a hard stare. “No, you don’t get a minute. This is part of the job. The fans expect it, and the media demands it. You’re going to do it, and you’re going to do it now.”
You sighed heavily. “I’m exhausted. Can’t this wait?”
“No,” she snapped, her tone brooking no argument. “You’re the star player, and that means your time isn’t your own. Besides, think of it as practice for the bigger stage. We have to maintain appearances.”
Your patience was wearing thin. “I’ve got a few days off starting tonight. I really need this time to unwind.”
Emma’s expression hardened. “You can have your days off after you’ve done your duties. Want to enjoy that time? Then put in the work now and stop arguing with me.”
With a defeated nod, you headed off to handle the post-match obligations. The thought of those precious days off was the only thing keeping you going as you endured the endless rounds of autographs and photos.
——
“Congratulations on your win, baby! You were absolutely amazing,” Alessia’s voice came through, filled with admiration.
She had watched the game replay and was genuinely impressed by how well you played.
“You know,” she teased, “that cockiness on the court—it’s like you’re two different people. I love how you’re all fierce and confident out there, but so sweet and caring when you’re off the court.”
You smiled softly, feeling a wave of relief. “I can finally relax now. I have the whole week off.”
“That’s wonderful! What’s your plan?” she asked, stretching out comfortably on her bed.
You sighed playfully, “Well, my family is on vacation, so I’ll be on my own. I was thinking of just lounging in bed all week.”
Alessia’s eyes brightened as she suggested hesitantly, “Hey… maybe you could come to England? We could spend the week together. I only have one match and the rest of the week off… only if you want to, of course.
Your face lit up with excitement. “Yes! I’d love to come to England and see you play in person! That sounds perfect.”
Alessia’s smile mirrored yours. “I’d love that too, more than anything. I miss you so much, baby.”
“I miss you more, Alessia,” you said, admiring her through the phone. “Will you stay on the line until I fall asleep? I’ll book my plane ticket tomorrow.”
“Of course, I’ll stay with you,” she said warmly, turning onto her side as she gazed at you through the screen while you propped your phone up on your pillow.
“Goodnight, sweet dreams,” she whispered softly.
“Good morning,” you replied, knowing it was morning for her. She chuckled lightly as you drifted off, comforted by her presence on the phone.
——
You were navigating your way through the London airport, eager to meet Alessia. She had texted you that she was waiting for you in the parking lot, and you could hardly contain your excitement.
As you approached the parking area, you spotted her almost immediately—her bright blonde hair stood out even in the bustling lot. With a wide smile on your face, you called out her name. She looked up, her eyes lighting up as she saw you.
You quickened your pace, and she rushed to meet you halfway. She wrapped you in a warm, tight embrace, her arms holding you close as you giggled, feeling the weight of the past month apart melt away.
“It’s so wonderful to see you in person again” you murmured into her shoulder, pulling back slightly to look into her eyes. You pressed a gentle kiss to her cheek, and her cheeks flushed a lovely shade of pink.
“Wow, you’re even more stunning in real life than on my screen,” she teased playfully, her eyes twinkling with affection. You couldn’t help but laugh, her words making your heart flutter.
“Let’s head out,” she said, taking your suitcase with ease. You both walked to her car, and once you were inside, she started driving. The car was filled with a comfortable silence, only broken by the soft melodies of the radio.
As the car came to a red light, you felt Alessia’s gaze on you. You turned to her with a teasing smile, asking, “What’s on your mind?”
“Nothing much,” she replied softly, her voice full of warmth. “I’m just so happy you’re here with me.” Her words made your heart race, and you felt a shy blush creeping onto your cheeks.
Feeling a rush of affection, you leaned closer and asked, “Can I kiss you?” Alessia’s smile grew even wider as she nodded, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. You closed the gap between you, your lips meeting in a sweet, lingering kiss.
The kiss quickly grew more passionate, her tongue gently exploring yours. The moment was blissful until a sudden honk from another car startled you both. You pulled away, laughing together as you realized the light had turned green.
Arriving at her house, Alessia guided you to the guest bedroom you’d be sleeping in. You thanked her with a heartfelt hug before collapsing onto the bed, utterly exhausted from your journey.
Alessia chuckled softly and joined you on the bed, her presence comforting. As you settled beside her, you turned to face her, and she looked at you with such adoration.
You reached out, capturing her lips in a slow, tender kiss. Her hands traced soothing circles on your back beneath your shirt, and you felt a sense of contentment and love that you hadn’t felt in weeks.
After what seemed like an eternity of gentle kisses, you pulled back, feeling a bit uncomfortable from the long flight. “I think I really need a shower; I feel a bit gross,” you admitted with a sheepish smile.
Alessia laughed softly and guided you towards the bathroom. “Go freshen up, love. I’ll be here waiting for you,” she said, her voice filled with affection. As you walked away, you felt her eyes on you, and you knew that despite the exhaustion, this moment was everything you had been longing for.
That evening, you and Alessia were having dinner together. Of course, you had taken charge in the kitchen, since Alessia had admitted more than once that cooking wasn’t her strong suit.
The cozy atmosphere was perfect—the soft clinking of utensils, the warm lighting, and just the two of you enjoying a quiet evening. But there was something on your mind, a question you had been wanting to ask for a while.
As you played with your fork, gathering the courage, you finally spoke. “So... what are we?” you asked, your voice soft but curious, glancing up at her from across the table.
Alessia blinked, her face showing a moment of surprise as she considered your question. “Well... we can be whatever you want us to be, I guess?” she said, her tone gentle, though there was a hint of nervousness behind her smile.
You bit your lip, heart racing as you decided to go for it. “I was thinking... maybe we could be official?” You paused, feeling butterflies in your stomach. “Like... I’d be your girlfriend?”
For a brief second, Alessia’s eyes widened, but then her entire face softened into the sweetest smile. “I’d love that. I’d love to be your girlfriend,” she said, her voice filled with sincerity.
Your heart felt like it was soaring, and without thinking, you leaned across the table to give her a soft, lingering kiss, smiling against her lips. When you pulled away, you couldn’t help but whisper, “My girlfriend.”
Alessia’s cheeks flushed a soft pink, and she giggled shyly. “And you’re my girlfriend,” she whispered back, her eyes shining with happiness.
You both sat there, grinning like fools, the warmth of the moment wrapping around you. Then Alessia added, “I can’t believe this is real. I’ve been wanting to ask you the same thing, but... I didn’t want to rush you.”
You laughed softly, reaching for her hand across the table. “I guess we both wanted the same thing.”
She squeezed your hand gently, her thumb brushing over your knuckles. “Well, I’m glad you said something first. I’m so happy right now,” she said, her eyes never leaving yours.
Dinner was momentarily forgotten as the two of you sat there, basking in the joy of finally making things official, unable to stop smiling at each other.
——
“Okay, baby, I’m going to go now,” Alessia called out, hurrying through the living room, grabbing her bag and keys.
She was clearly in a rush, her shoes tapping against the floor as she moved back and forth, double-checking that she had everything.
Today was match day, and though the game wasn’t until the afternoon, Alessia had to leave early for team prep and meetings. Her excitement was clear, but so was the usual pre-game focus.
“Alright, love. I’ll see you at the match later,”you replied from your spot at the kitchen table, casually eating breakfast. A small smile played on your lips as you watched her buzz around the room.
Alessia paused for a second, turning toward you. She walked over and placed her warm hand gently on the back of your neck, tilting your head up to meet her gaze. “Come here,” she whispered, leaning down to kiss you softly, her lips brushing against yours in a few quick pecks.
“Text me when you get there, okay?”she murmured, her breath warm against your lips as she lingered just inches from your face.
You smiled, kissing her back a little longer this time before pulling away. “I will. Promise.”
With one last look, Alessia gave you a bright smile, kissed the top of your head, and dashed out the door, leaving the house feeling a little quieter in her absence. The sound of the door closing echoed, and you were left sitting there, lost in thought.
Being with Alessia always filled you with this sense of peace and contentment. It was like the rest of the world and all its stressors faded away—no more work pressure, no cameras, no dealing with negativity or drama, not even the lingering thoughts of Emma. Just you, Alessia, and the affection you shared.
The match wasn’t for a few more hours, so you decided to spend the morning downtown. After getting dressed, you called an Uber and left the house, heading into the heart of the city for a bit of exploring.
After walking around for a while, you unexpectedly found yourself in front of the Emirates Stadium.
The sheer size of it caught your attention, and you remembered Alessia mentioning it before—how proud she was that they played some of their matches there and how they’d broken attendance records. It was a special place for her.
Out of curiosity, you wandered into the stadium’s shop. The store was packed with merchandise—scarves, mugs, and jerseys from various players. Your eyes immediately caught sight of a familiar name: Russo. Alessia’s jersey was hanging right there in front of you.
You walked over, running your fingers across the fabric, admiring her name printed boldly across the back. You couldn’t help but smile, thinking of her out there on the pitch, doing what she loved.
But then you hesitated. Was it too soon to buy it? You hadn’t been together for that long. Would she find it cheesy? Or maybe she’d feel pressured? You weren't sure how she’d react to seeing you wear her jersey so early in the relationship.
Then again, you wanted to show her how proud you were, how much you supported her, not just as a girlfriend but as someone who admired her talent and passion. After a moment of deliberation, you picked the jersey off the rack, holding it up with a grin.
Screw it, you thought. You were buying it.
As you made your way to the register, you couldn't help but imagine Alessia’s reaction when she saw you wearing her name. Would she be surprised? Happy? You hoped it would make her smile the way she made you smile every day.
——
Arriving at the stadium, you were immediately struck by the electric atmosphere. The place was buzzing, packed with men, women, and children all decked out in various jerseys.
Some fans were singing team chants at the top of their lungs, others laughing and chatting with excitement. As you scanned the crowd, a few Russo jerseys caught your eye, and it brought a smile to your face, knowing how proud Alessia would be to see her name out there.
Sticking to your promise, you quickly sent Alessia a text: "I’m here!" before heading inside to find your seat. The stadium felt even larger from the inside, and the anticipation building in the crowd was contagious.
Settling into your seat, you began scrolling through your social media, casually passing the time.
Suddenly, the crowd erupted into cheers, and you looked up to see the Arsenal women’s team emerging from the tunnel for their warm-up. Your eyes immediately found Alessia, her figure unmistakable as she jogged to the center of the field.
There was something about her that captivated you in that moment. Dressed in her training kit, she looked completely in her element, focused yet calm.
Her hair was tied up in a neat ponytail, and the way she moved was almost hypnotic. You couldn’t take your eyes off her—she was stunning, both as an athlete and as your girlfriend.
As Alessia stretched and warmed up, you noticed her sneaking glances toward the stands, scanning the crowd. It was obvious she was looking for you.
When her eyes finally landed on you, her face lit up, and you waved, feeling your heart skip a beat as she waved back with a huge smile. Her gaze shifted to your jersey, and for a moment, you could see the curiosity in her expression as she squinted slightly, trying to make out the name on the back.
She pointed at your jersey with a grin, giving you a thumbs up, and you knew exactly what she was thinking—she was hoping it was her name you were wearing. You smiled back at her, standing up slightly to show off the back, and she gave a little fist pump, clearly pleased.
With a playful smile, she blew you a kiss, and even from the distance, she could you her cheeks flush slightly as you caught it with a laugh before returning to her warm-up routine.
It was a small, intimate moment in the middle of a crowded stadium, but it felt like it was just the two of you.
——
The final whistle echoed through the stadium, marking the end of the match. Arsenal had won, and Alessia had scored two breathtaking goals. The stands erupted in cheers, fans chanting for their heroes as the players exchanged handshakes on the pitch.
After the formalities, the Arsenal players began their lap around the stadium, waving to the fans and stopping for photos.
Alessia made her way closer to your section, taking the time to chat with fans, especially the young ones. It was heartwarming to watch her interact with them—so sweet and patient, laughing with them, even signing shirts and taking selfies.
The kids clearly idolized her, and seeing that made your heart swell with pride. You couldn’t help but feel lucky to be hers.
From where you stood, you debated whether you should go over and talk to her. Part of you wanted to be close, but you weren’t sure if Alessia wanted to be seen with you in front of all these people.
You’d been keeping a low profile, not wanting to attract too much attention. Wearing a hat was your attempt at blending in, though you weren’t sure how much it actually helped.
Then there was the Emma factor. If she found out you were at an Arsenal match in a Russo jersey, she would flip.
The dating rumors would undoubtedly blow up, and with Emma so intent to keep your sexuality hidden, it could lead to trouble. Not for you, but certainly for her. You didn’t want to complicate things.
Sighing, you decided not to approach. Instead, you started making your way out of the stadium, feeling a little disappointed but knowing it was probably the right decision. Before leaving, you quickly texted Alessia:
*Heading back to your place now. See you soon*
As Alessia continued signing autographs, her eyes scanned the crowd again, looking for you. But when she didn’t see you, a flicker of worry crossed her face.
Where had you gone? Did something happen? Did you not enjoy the match? She tried to stay focused on the fans, but the nagging thoughts kept surfacing.
Once she finished up and made her way to her car, she switched on her phone and saw your message. Her brows furrowed as she read it.
You had left without saying goodbye. Confused and slightly concerned, she dialed your number immediately.
The phone barely rang before you picked up. “Hi, babe! Great match!” you said cheerfully, hoping to ease any tension.
“Thanks,” Alessia replied, though you could hear the worry in her voice. “But are you okay? Why did you leave so early? I wanted to see you after the match.”
Hearing her concern made your heart melt. “Oh… I didn’t know if you’d want me to come up to you with all those people around. You know how it is with rumors. I wasn’t sure how you’d feel.”
“Baby, of course I wanted to see you,” Alessia said, her voice softening. “I don’t care about rumors. Do you?”
“I mean, I don’t either… but with Emma and my contracts, I didn’t want to stir things up. You know how she is. I just didn’t want to get into trouble, but I really wanted to come up to you,” you admitted, feeling a bit guilty.
Alessia sighed, her voice affectionate. “I understand, love”
“I’ll make it up to you, I promise. I just didn’t want to cause any issues today.”
“It’s okay, I get it,” she reassured you. “I’m on my way home now, so I’ll see you soon, alright?”
“Yeah, okay. I’ll be waiting for you,” you replied with a smile.
“Good. And hey, next time, don’t hesitate, okay? I want you there,” she added softly, before hanging up.
As you hung up the phone, you couldn’t stop smiling. Hearing how much she wanted you there eased your worries, and you were already looking forward to seeing her again in just a little while.
——
When Alessia stepped through the door, she was immediately welcomed by the comforting smell of food cooking. Curiosity piqued, she wandered into the kitchen and found you standing by the stove, still dressed in her jersey, completely focused on preparing dinner.
You hadn’t noticed her yet, so with a mischievous smile, she quietly snuck up behind you, wrapping her arms around your waist. The sudden touch made you jump a little, nearly spilling what was in your hands.
“Ah! Alessia, you scared me!” you gasped, turning your head slightly to look at her.
She giggled softly, the sound warm and playful. “Sorry, love,” she mumbled with her chin now resting on your shoulder, her body gently pressed against yours. You were both the same height, and the way she fit perfectly against you felt natural, comforting.
Without missing a beat, she planted a soft kiss on your cheek. “By the way, my jersey looks so good on you,” she whispered teasingly, her breath warm against your skin.
You couldn’t help but grin. “Does it really?” you teased back, leaning into her slightly as she started to sway the two of you gently from side to side, like it was the most natural thing in the world.
“Mmm, yep,” she hummed. “But you know, you could’ve just asked, and I’d have given you one of my old jerseys,” she said with a cheeky smile against your cheek, her lips brushing against your skin.
You giggled, feeling your heart warm at her playfulness. “Too late for that,” you replied with a soft smile, enjoying the closeness.
“Well then, I’ll just have to get one of yours!” Alessia said, her voice full of excitement. “That way, when I come to the U.S. to watch one of your matches, I’ll wear it.”
Surprised, you turned your head slightly more to look at her. “You’d really come to one of my games?” you asked, the disbelief clear in your voice. None of your so-called friends—or even past partners—had ever made the effort to come to one of your matches.
Alessia pulled you in tighter, resting her chin on your shoulder again as she softly replied, “Of course I will. I want to see you play in person, not just on TV. We can be each other’s WAGs.” She laughed lightly, the sound making your heart flutter, as she nuzzled her nose against your neck.
You turned around fully in her arms, your face lighting up. “You really want to watch me play?” you asked, still amazed by how supportive she was.
She grinned, her eyes sparkling. “Absolutely. I can’t wait to see the cocky, confident Y/N on the field. Because the Y/N I know is shy and adorable.” She rubbed her nose against yours playfully, her gaze softening as she looked at you.
Your cheeks flushed at her words, feeling a little bashful. “You’re making me blush,” you said, lightly slapping her shoulder with a laugh, before leaning in to kiss her gently.
Alessia kissed you back softly, her hands resting on your waist as she smiled against your lips. When you pulled away, she brushed her thumb tenderly across your cheek. “You know, you don’t have to be nervous about me coming to your games. I’ll always be cheering for you.”
Her words melted your heart, and you leaned your forehead against hers, the warmth between you two undeniable. “I guess I just never expected anyone to actually want to come watch me play,” you admitted quietly.
“Well, I do,” she said softly, her gaze full of affection. “And I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
Hearing that made you feel a kind of happiness you hadn’t felt in a long time. Knowing Alessia was willing to support you in such a meaningful way filled you with gratitude and joy. You were already looking forward to the day she’d be in the stands, proudly wearing your jersey, just as you had done for her today.
After dinner, you and Alessia settled on the couch, cozying up together to watch a movie. The warmth and comfort of the evening were abruptly interrupted when your phone rang. You glanced at the screen and saw Emma’s name, which immediately made you sit up, causing Alessia to look at you in confusion.
“What’s wrong?” Alessia asked, her voice filled with concern.
“It’s Emma,” you replied nervously. “She never calls me. She only texts, and when she calls, it’s usually bad news.”
You answered the call and put it on speaker, so Alessia could hear too. Emma’s voice blared through the speaker, sharp and accusing.
“Y/N!?” Emma’s voice was full of anger, making your eyes widen in alarm.
“Yes?” you answered, trying to sound calm.
Emma took a long, frustrated breath before launching into her tirade. “Can you explain to me why I woke up to rumors about you dating a woman soccer player? It’s all over social media! How did you manage to get yourself into this mess?”
Your gaze darted to Alessia, who looked equally shocked. You tried to maintain a calm demeanor, though you were clearly distressed.
“I… um, I don’t know,” you said, trying to play innocent.
“So you have no idea how you magically ended up at an Arsenal game wearing an Alessia Russo jersey? And don’t even get me started on the picture of her blowing you a kiss on the field!” Emma’s sarcasm was palpable, her frustration evident.
You glanced at Alessia, who looked as if she was struggling to remain composed. She squeezed your hand reassuringly, her support evident.
“Okay, yes, I went to the Arsenal game,” you admitted. “But nothing really happened. We barely interacted. People can still think we’re just friends. That kiss was the only thing that happened.”
Emma’s tone grew even more hostile. “Oh, really? Because if you’d bothered to check social media, you’d see that there’s a picture of you two making out in a parking lot! Not only did you flaunt this relationship during the day, but you also lied to me about where you were this morning!”
“I… I didn’t know,” you stammered, feeling the tears start to well up. Alessia’s hand was still in yours, and her grip tightened slightly in a gesture of comfort.
“Do you have any idea what this means for you?” Emma’s voice was now a sharp, cutting edge. “No contracts, no sponsors. Your career is in serious jeopardy. Do you realize how screwed you are?”
“I—” you began, but Emma cut you off with a cutting edge.
“Save it. Don’t say another word. Just let me handle this,” Emma snapped before ending the call abruptly.
The sudden silence in the room was heavy. Tears began to fall as you felt overwhelmed by the weight of Emma’s harsh words. Alessia’s heart broke for you. She pulled you into her arms, holding you tightly and rubbing your back soothingly. For a while, you just let her comfort you in silence, feeling the warmth of her embrace.
“I’m really sorry,” you whispered after a few moments, your voice muffled against her shoulder as you snifflled.
“For what?” Alessia asked softly, gently pulling your face away from her shoulder so she could see your eyes.
“Everyone knows now,” you said, your voice trembling with concern. “I didn’t know if you’d be okay with everyone knowing about us. We never talked about it.”
Alessia’s expression softened, her eyes filled with affection. “I don’t care that everyone knows. It’s nobody’s business but ours,” she reassured you with a tender smile.
She was truly unbothered by the public attention. Her happiness with you was what mattered most to her. Being out in the open didn’t change that.
“And it’s absolutely not your fault,” Alessia continued, her voice firm but gentle. “I’m the one who kissed you in the parking lot. If anyone should apologize, it’s me.” She caressed your cheek softly, her gaze full of sincerity.
“No, it’s not your fault either… I’m happy you kissed me,” you said, managing a small, grateful smile.
Alessia’s smile widened, her eyes sparkling with love. “I’m glad I kissed you too,” she said, leaning in to place the softest, most reassuring kiss on your lips.
She then took your phone and turned it off, placing it aside. “Let’s not worry about that tonight. Let’s just focus on being together and go to bed,” she suggested, gently helping you to your feet as you nodded and turned off the TV.
As you made your way to the hallway, Alessia paused and turned to you, a touch of nervousness in her voice. “Do you want to sleep with me?” she asked hesitantly.
You looked at her, a bit surprised by the question.
“I mean, just sleep together. Not anything else,” she rambled nervously, her cheeks flushing. “Though, yes, I’d like to… you know, in the future, if you want,of course! But for now, I just meant to sleep, to close our eyes together.”
You couldn’t help but smile at her endearing nervousness, finding her adorable. “Of course, I’d love to close my eyes with you,” you teased, making her giggle.
You followed her to her room, and as you both lay down facing each other, Alessia draped her arms around your waist, pulling you close. She kissed you softly. “Good night, baby,” she whispered, her hands soothingly rubbing your back.
Feeling completely relaxed, you whispered back, “Good night, babe,” before closing your eyes. You and Alessia drifted off to sleep, wrapped in each other’s arms, feeling more connected and at peace than ever.
——
The next morning, you woke up to the gentle sensation of soft kisses being pressed all over your face. You let out a contented hum, still half-asleep.
"Good morning," Alessia’s raspy morning voice greeted you, her face beaming with a soft smile as your eyes fluttered open to meet hers.
“I made you breakfast… well, at least I tried,” she chuckled, clearly proud of her effort. You giggled in response, but as she leaned in for a kiss, you playfully turned your head, causing her lips to land on your cheek.
“Hey!” Alessia whined, pouting a little.
“Morning breath,” you teased, smirking as you kissed her cheek in return before slipping out of bed. Together, you made your way to the bathroom to freshen up.
“I’ll wait for you in the kitchen,” she said, flashing you another one of those soft smiles, and you nodded, watching her leave with a warm feeling in your chest.
After washing up, you found Alessia in the kitchen. She looked up at you with that hopeful gleam in her eyes. “Can I have my kiss now, please?” she asked, grinning. You giggled and leaned down to press a soft kiss on her lips before sitting down at the table.
“Thank you, Less. This looks really good,” you said, grateful for her effort. You both ate quietly, enjoying the moment, but a sense of calm was soon interrupted.
After breakfast, you turned on your phone, and immediately, it blew up with missed calls and texts, mostly from your teammates and, predictably, Emma.
Your social media was flooded with the picture of you and Alessia kissing in that parking lot. Some of the comments were harsh, filled with judgment and nastiness. You sighed, feeling the weight of it all.
Alessia, noticing the shift in your mood, slid her chair closer and gently placed a hand on your arm. “Please, don't read those comments,” she said softly, her eyes filled with concern. “Don’t let them dictate how you live your life. You don’t owe anyone an explanation.”
Her voice was steady but filled with emotion. “No matter what you decide, I’m here, always. I know we’ve only been officially together for less than a week, but I care so much about you. I don’t want to lose you over this.”
Her words hit you deeply, making your heart swell. She was right—you had spent too long letting others control your life, dictate your happiness, and stifle who you were. That needed to change, and it needed to happen now.
“You’re right,” you said, finally feeling that resolve settle in. Without hesitation, you dialed Emma’s number. It was past midnight in LA, but you didn’t care. You knew she was awake anyway, probably plotting her next move.
The call rang a few times before Emma answered, her voice harsh and impatient. “Finally, you pick up. I’ve been calling you a thousands times! Now listen—here’s what we’re going to do—”
You cut her off, your voice firm and steady. “No, you listen to me.”
There was silence on the other end as Emma, likely shocked by your tone, waited.
“I don’t care about the sponsors, the contracts, or what the media is going to say. Do you hear me? Here’s what’s going to happen: I’m coming out, and I’m doing it today.”
You could hear Emma start to protest, but you shut her down before she could even get a word in. “No, shut up and listen. I’m tired of you controlling my life. I’m 22, Emma. I’m an adult. I’m done with this.”
“You’re going to ruin your career!” Emma’s voice was sharp, dripping with scorn.
You took a deep breath, the weight of your words heavy but resolute. “I’d rather risk ruining my career and be happy than keep pretending to be someone I’m not and stay miserable.”
“As your manager—” she tried again, but this time, you didn’t let her finish.
“Oh, right. I almost forgot to mention: you’re not my manager anymore. You’re fired.” The words spilled out with finality, and before Emma could respond with more venom, you ended the call and tossed your phone onto the table.
For a moment, there was silence. Alessia, who had been quietly observing, was staring at you, her eyes wide in admiration and surprise.
“Um… was that okay? Did I go too far?” you asked nervously, suddenly second-guessing yourself.
Without hesitation, Alessia cupped your face in her hands and kissed you deeply, her lips warm and soft against yours. When she pulled away, she smiled. “You were absolutely perfect,” she whispered, her voice filled with pride.
You smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over you. You were finally in control of your own life, and Alessia was right there with you, every step of the way.
——
“You’re going to put on a show for your girl tonight,” Cam teased with a grin, watching as you blushed at her words.
“Absolutely,” you replied confidently, heading onto the court as the match was about to start. “I plan to make it unforgettable.”
It’s been about a month since you came out and fired Emma. Initially, it was tough to manage with brand deals, media attention, and people talking about your personal life.
But over time, things settled down, and people moved on. Although you and Alessia still occasionally receive hate, you’ve learned not to let it bother you.
As you took your position, you glanced to your right and immediately spotted Alessia in the front row, just as she had promised, wearing your jersey. She gave you a playful wink, and you responded by blowing her a kiss. Her grin widened, filled with excitement and pride as she caught the kiss.
The match began with intense energy. You played with a mix of flair and precision, showing off your skills and determination. Every move was calculated to impress not just the crowd, but especially Alessia. At one point, you executed a particularly stunning maneuver, and with a confident smirk, you glanced in Alessia’s direction. She caught your eye and winked back, her teasing smile clearly enjoying your performance.
By the end of the game, you had secured a decisive victory. Your performance was not just strong but spectacular, as you’d promised. The crowd was buzzing, but your main focus was on Alessia.
As you approached the sidelines, you locked eyes with her, giving her a playful wink. She responded with a wide, teasing smile and a little wave, clearly thrilled by your performance.
——
Back home, as you and Alessia snuggled on the couch, you couldn’t help but reflect on the evening’s events.
“You were absolutely amazing out there,” Alessia said, her eyes sparkling with admiration.
“Thanks,” you replied, your smile wide and satisfied. “I really wanted to make it a memorable night for you.”
Alessia nestled closer, her hand resting on yours. “You definitely did. I’ve never seen you play with such confidence and flair. It was like you were in your element.”
You sighed contentedly, looking into her eyes. “It feels incredible to hear you say that. I’ve worked so hard to get to this point, to be this person. And having you here, cheering me on, makes it all the more special.”
Alessia smiled softly. “You’ve always been amazing, but now you’re truly shining. It’s like you’ve found yourself, and it’s beautiful to see.”
You nodded, feeling a deep sense of fulfillment. “It’s true. For the longest time, I felt lost, trying to fit into other people’s expectations. But now, I’m finally being who I truly am. No more trying to live up to Emma’s standards or anyone else’s. I’m proud of who I’ve become, and I’m so happy to have you by my side.”
Alessia squeezed your hand. “I’m proud of you too. You deserve all this happiness and more. Seeing you so confident and joyful is everything to me.”
As you held her close, you felt an overwhelming sense of peace. Your life was exactly where you wanted it to be. You had a fantastic girlfriend who supported and admired you, you had embraced your true self, and there was no more negativity from the past.
For the first time in a long time, you felt genuinely happy and content, knowing you were living your life authentically.
FIN
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