031 | the barça gala

The annual Barça Gala was one of the most anticipated events of the year. Players, coaches, and staff gathered to celebrate the club's achievements, both past and present. Gianna had been looking forward to it since her return to the pitch, though tonight carried an extra layer of excitement-and maybe a bit of nerves.

Cienna had come over to Gianna's apartment to get ready together. Gianna stood in front of her mirror, fussing with the straps of her floor-length dress, a stunning shade of deep navy blue that shimmered under the light. The neckline was elegant yet modest, and the dress hugged her figure perfectly, with a slit that ran up to her mid-thigh.

Cienna, who wore a sleek crimson gown, stepped up behind her, tilting her head as she inspected Gianna's reflection. "Okay, you look absolutely unreal. Hector's going to combust when he sees you."

Gianna rolled her eyes, her cheeks warming. "We're not talking about Hector tonight. It's just a gala."

Cienna raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Yeah, sure. Just a gala where your best friend is probably going to spend the entire evening staring at you like you hung the stars."

"Cienna," Gianna groaned, though she couldn't help the small smile that tugged at her lips.

By the time they arrived at the venue, the grand hall was already buzzing with activity. Chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the elegantly decorated tables. The room was filled with Barça legends, current players, and staff, all dressed to the nines.

As Gianna and Cienna walked in, heads turned. Gianna tried to ignore the whispers, her focus on finding a familiar face in the crowd. It didn't take long to spot Marc Guiu, who was already at the bar, chatting with Lamine Yamal and Marc Bernal.

"There's my brother," Gianna said, heading toward them.

Marc Guiu turned as she approached, his eyes widening slightly before he grinned. "Well, well, look who cleaned up nicely."

"Don't start," Gianna warned, though her smile was genuine.

Marc Bernal leaned in, his expression mischievous. "Hector hasn't seen you yet, has he?"

Gianna shot him a look. "You guys are impossible."

Before anyone could tease her further, a familiar voice called out her name. Gianna turned to see Hector making his way toward her, and her breath caught. He was dressed in a tailored black suit, his hair styled just enough to look effortless.

He stopped in front of her, his eyes sweeping over her before settling on her face. "Wow," he said softly, a smile tugging at his lips. "You look incredible."

"Thanks," she said, her voice quieter than she intended. "You clean up pretty well yourself."

His grin widened, and for a moment, it felt like they were the only two people in the room.

The evening continued with speeches, awards, and a sit-down dinner. Gianna found herself seated between Hector and Cienna, with Marc Guiu and Lamine across from them. The conversation flowed easily, filled with laughter and inside jokes, but every now and then, Gianna caught Hector glancing at her out of the corner of her eye.

When the music started and people began making their way to the dance floor, Cienna nudged Gianna. "Go on," she whispered, nodding toward Hector.

"What?" Gianna asked, feigning ignorance.

Cienna rolled her eyes. "Go dance with him. You know he's not going to ask first."

Before Gianna could protest, Hector stood and held out his hand. "Come on, Gigi. One dance."

She hesitated for only a second before placing her hand in his. He led her to the dance floor, the soft hum of the music wrapping around them.

As they began to sway, Gianna couldn't help but notice how natural it felt-his hand on her waist, the way he guided her effortlessly. She looked up at him, and for a moment, she forgot about everything else.

"Thanks for coming with me tonight," he said softly, his voice barely audible over the music.

Gianna smiled. "You make it sound like I had a choice."

He chuckled, his thumb brushing lightly against her waist. "You always have a choice, Gigi."

Her heart skipped a beat, and she looked away, her gaze falling on the glittering chandeliers above. "I don't think I'd ever choose not to have you in my life," she admitted quietly.

When she glanced back at him, the look in his eyes made her breath hitch. It was intense, almost vulnerable, and for the first time, she wondered if Cienna and Marc had been right all along.

As the song came to an end, Hector leaned down slightly, his voice low. "Let's get some air."

Gianna nodded, letting him lead her out onto the balcony. The cool night air was a welcome contrast to the warmth of the crowded hall.

They stood in silence for a moment, the city lights twinkling in the distance. Finally, Hector turned to her, his expression serious. "Gigi, I-"

"Hector!"

They both turned to see Marc Guiu stepping onto the balcony, a drink in hand. "Come on, we're taking a group photo. Don't make me drag you two back in there."

Gianna laughed softly, grateful for the interruption, though a part of her couldn't ignore the feeling that something had just shifted between her and Hector.

As they rejoined the group, she couldn't help but steal a glance at him, her mind racing with questions she wasn't ready to answer. But for now, she let herself enjoy the moment, surrounded by the people she cared about most.