Between the Flags.

Nobody's POV

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Isra stood in the softly lit lounge, the hum of quiet conversations and shuffling feet wrapping around her like a familiar blanket. Around her, the Spain squad was beginning to disperse after the day’s filming, laughter and light chatter mingling with the faint clinking of water bottles and phones buzzing.

She moved between the groups with a warm smile, exchanging hugs and quiet goodbyes. Jenni squeezed her hand firmly, whispering, “See you after you beat the Netherlands.” Laia gave her an encouraging grin, and Mariona’s eyes held a spark of mischief as she waved.

Isra’s heart felt full, even as the edges tingled with the bittersweet weight of parting. She promised them all she’d be back soon, holding onto that thought like a lifeline.

As she gathered her bag, a snippet of conversation floated to her ears from a nearby cluster of players. The voices were low but clear enough:

“Did you hear? Alexia’s not staying with the team this time.”
“Yeah, she’s got her own hotel—something quieter.”
“Probably to focus on her recovery before the finals.”

Isra paused, the words settling over her like a cool shadow. She hadn’t known. The idea of Alexia alone in another hotel stirred a complex mix of emotions she tried to keep buried. Curiosity, concern, and something more tangled.

She took a deep breath, smoothing her jacket, and turned away from the lounge. The warmth of the team behind her contrasted with the solitude waiting at her own hotel. But she was ready—ready to face whatever this time apart would bring.

The door closed softly behind her as she stepped out into the cool evening air, the city lights flickering like distant promises.

Isra:
Hey, I overheard someone saying you’re not staying with the team this time?

Isra wasn't really expecting a reply, so when the reply actually came quite fast, her heart raced.

Alexia:
Yeah, it’s true. Needed some quiet to focus on recovery before the finals.

Isra:
Do you want some company?

Alexia:
Depends who it is… if it’s who I think it is, then I’d love their company.

A moment passes, Isra wasn't sure what to write back. Should she be bold? Or should she play it safe and cool? But then-

Alexia:
What hotel are you staying in?

Isra:
[Hotel name/address]

Alexia:
I’ll be there shortly. Have you eaten?

Isra:
Not yet.

Alexia:
I’ll bring us something.

Isra:
Gracias. I’ll wait outside for you.

Isra waited outside the hotel, the hood of her oversized hoodie pulled low over her face. The February evening air was cool but not biting, carrying just enough crispness to make her pull the sleeves over her hands. She wasn’t trying to be mysterious, just wanted to blend in for a moment—though with Alexia’s sharp eyes, she knew that wouldn’t work for long.

Footsteps echoed on the pavement, and Isra’s heart skipped a beat before she even looked up. There she was—Alexia, carrying a paper bag from a nearby Spanish takeout, her dark curls bouncing as she walked, a small smile already playing on her lips.

Alexia’s gaze met Isra’s, and her smile grew warmer, eyes lighting up like she’d just found what she’d been looking for. “You really think this hoodie will fool me?” Alexia teased softly, stepping closer.