A Quiet Morning

Ethan set his drink down with a sigh, rubbing his fingers over his temple. The match was over, but the tension still lingered in the air like static after a storm.

What a game.

The kind that left people arguing in bars, debating tactics, and praising players for their once-in-a-lifetime shots.

On the screen, the Blackvale FC players were retreating into the tunnel, their victory secured with that unbelievable final volley.

Ashford United's players, on the other hand, stood frozen on the field, disbelief etched onto their faces.

Some had their hands on their heads, others on their hips, chests rising and falling from exertion. A cruel way to lose.

Beside him, Vanessa was practically vibrating.

"That was insane! That goal should be illegal! There's no way — no way — that was a real shot," she ranted, shaking her head. "Like, who even does that?!"

Ethan smirked, stretching his arms behind his head. "Rowan Vance does, apparently."