007 | quiet moments

The celebrations lasted well into the night. By the time Gianna returned to her apartment, her voice was hoarse from laughing, her legs were sore from the match, and her heart was full. The victory over Real Madrid wasn't just another win-it felt monumental. But now, as the city of Barcelona settled into the quiet of the early morning hours, she was grateful for a moment of peace.

Gianna dropped her bag by the door, kicking off her sneakers and padding into the living room. Her apartment was still a bit of a mess from the game night a few days ago. Empty snack bowls and stray playing cards were scattered across the coffee table. She made a mental note to clean up tomorrow-tonight, she didn't have the energy.

As she flopped onto the couch, her phone buzzed on the coffee table. She reached for it, smiling when she saw a message from Hector.

Hector: Hey, just checking in. You good?

Gianna rolled her eyes affectionately. Hector was always like this-checking up on her, making sure she was okay even when it was completely unnecessary. She typed out a quick reply.

Gianna: I'm fine. Exhausted, but fine. Thanks for carrying me around like a toddler, though.

His reply came almost instantly.

Hector: You're welcome. Someone had to let the world know how great you are.

Gianna: Pretty sure my goal did that.

Hector: Yeah, but the celebration sealed it.

Gianna smiled, shaking her head. Before she could reply, there was a knock at her door. She frowned, glancing at the clock. It was almost midnight-who could be visiting this late?

Dragging herself off the couch, she shuffled to the door and peeked through the peephole. Of course. It was Hector.

She opened the door, leaning against the frame. "You know, you could've just texted me instead of coming all the way over here."

Hector shrugged, holding up a bag of takeout and two sodas. "I figured you'd be hungry."

Gianna stared at him for a moment before stepping aside to let him in. "You're impossible."

"True," he said, grinning as he walked into the apartment and made himself comfortable on the couch.

Gianna followed, sitting next to him as he opened the takeout bag and handed her a container. The smell of warm food hit her, and she realized just how hungry she was.

They ate in comfortable silence for a while, the only sounds coming from the clinking of their forks and the hum of the city outside.

"So," Hector said after a few minutes, leaning back against the couch. "How does it feel to be the hero of El Clásico?"

Gianna shrugged, her lips quirking into a small smile. "It feels good. But it was a team effort, you know?"

"Always so humble," Hector teased, nudging her with his elbow.

She rolled her eyes but didn't respond, focusing instead on her food.

After a moment, Hector spoke again, his tone softer this time. "I mean it, Gigi. You were incredible out there. Watching you play...it's like watching magic."

Gianna paused, glancing at him. There was no teasing in his expression now, just genuine admiration. She felt a warmth spread through her chest, and for once, she didn't brush off the compliment.

"Thanks," she said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.

They sat in silence for a while after that, the kind of silence that felt comfortable, like an unspoken understanding between them.

As the clock ticked closer to 1 a.m., Hector finally stood, stretching his arms over his head. "Alright, I should probably head out. You need rest, and I've got training tomorrow."

Gianna walked him to the door, leaning against the frame as he stepped into the hallway.

"Thanks for the food," she said.

"Anytime," he replied, stuffing his hands into his pockets. He hesitated for a moment, then added, "Get some sleep, alright? You've earned it."

She smiled. "Goodnight, Hector."

"Night, Gigi."

As he walked down the hallway, Gianna closed the door and leaned against it, her thoughts lingering on the quiet moments they'd shared.

Despite the chaos of the day and the intensity of the rivalry, it was moments like these-with her friends, her family, and the people who truly cared for her-that made everything worthwhile.