The morning light seeped through the curtains, casting soft rays across the small apartment room.
Outside, the city of Alkmaar was alive with morning activities, but inside, all was still. Benjamin lay sprawled on his bed, the blanket tangled around his legs. His chest rose and fell in a slow, steady rhythm, his face peaceful.
For the second time since signing his professional contract, there were no alarms, no pressure to wake early for training or tactics. Today was an off day, and his body embraced the rare gift of rest.
It wasn't until the clock on his nightstand flickered past ten that he began to stir. A faint groan escaped his lips as he shifted, rolling onto his back.
Slowly, his eyes fluttered open, adjusting to the warm light in the room. He stretched lazily, his arms extending over his head, his toes curling under the blanket.