Chapter 34-35-36

Chapter 34 – The Grand Return to the Runway

The big day had arrived. After months of rehearsals, fittings and preparation, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was finally happening. The whole world was watching every detail, but the most anticipated moment was the return of two runway legends: Gisele Bündchen and Adriana Lima.

The event was being broadcast live, and the audience eagerly awaited the performances. For many, it was like reliving a golden era of fashion, and the energy in the place was electric.

Backstage, the atmosphere was a mix of nervousness and excitement. Models, makeup artists and stylists were running around adjusting the last details. Gisele and Adriana were in a secluded corner, chatting while the hairstylists finished their hairstyles.

"We're really doing this," Adriana said, looking at Gisele in the mirror.

"Yes. It feels surreal, doesn't it?" Gisele replied, smiling as she adjusted the strap of her Swarovski crystal-studded bra.

"But I couldn't imagine doing this with anyone but you," Adriana said, holding Gisele's hand.

Gisele squeezed her friend's hand. "Same here. Let's show the world why we're the most beloved seniors."

In the audience, Ricardo was sitting in the front row, next to Benjamin, Vivian, and Jack. He was wearing an elegant black suit, but he couldn't hide the glint of pride in his eyes.

"She's going to rock," Ricardo said to Benjamin, who had his cell phone in his hands, ready to record.

"I'm sure of it. Mom always does," Benjamin replied with a smile.

Vivian looked at Ricardo and whispered, "You're going to whistle, right? She always says she loves it when you do that."

Ricardo laughed. "You bet."

As the show began, a succession of stunning models strutted down the runway, each one displaying the beauty and glamour that defined the event. But the climax came when the spotlight focused on the end of the runway.

The music changed to something more epic, and the announcer announced:

"And now, two icons who have marked the history of Victoria's Secret... Adriana Lima and Gisele Bündchen!"

The audience erupted in applause before they even appeared. When they finally emerged, walking side by side with confidence and elegance, the audience rose to their feet. Adriana wore a black piece with silver details, while Gisele shone in a gold combination.

As soon as Gisele walked onto the runway, Ricardo whistled loudly, drawing the attention of everyone around him. He blew kisses and made a heart with his hands, something that immediately made Gisele smile when she saw him.

Vivian, sitting next to Ricardo, began to do the same, as did Benjamin and Jack. The three of them imitated Ricardo's gestures, sending hearts and whistling.

Gisele looked directly at them, her eyes shining with emotion. She put her hand on her chest and sent a kiss back, which made Ricardo smile even more.

Adriana and Gisele walked with grace and power, strategically stopping to pose and give glances that enchanted everyone. The connection between them was evident, and the audience cheered them on with every step.

"This is history in the making," someone in the audience whispered.

The two reached the end of the runway, held hands and bowed in sync before heading backstage to incessant applause.

After the show, Gisele quickly went backstage, where she was greeted with hugs and words of praise. Ricardo, Benjamin, Vivian and Jack were taken to the exclusive dressing room.

As soon as Gisele saw Ricardo, she ran into his arms. "Were you sending me hearts in front of everyone?"

"Of course you were," he said, hugging her tightly. "How could I not when you look this amazing?"

Vivian jumped into the hug, followed by Benjamin and Jack. "You looked amazing, Mommy!" Vivian said.

"Thank you, my loves," Gisele said, kissing her children.

Adriana walked in soon after, smiling. "I have to admit, Gisele, your support is unbeatable."

Ricardo extended his hand to Adriana. "You rocked it too, Adriana. It was a privilege to watch."

"Thank you, Ricardo," she replied, with a warm smile.

Later that evening, the group gathered for a private dinner to celebrate the success of the show. Adriana, Gisele, Ricardo, Gisele's children, and a few other models were in attendance.

"To an unforgettable comeback!" Adriana toasted, raising her glass of champagne.

"To you two, who showed the world how it's done," Ricardo said, raising his glass of water.

Gisele looked at Ricardo, her eyes full of love and gratitude. "And to you, for always being by my side."

The night ended with laughter, stories, and the feeling that this was just the beginning of a new era for Gisele, both professionally and personally.

Chapter 35 – Reflections at Home

After intense days in New York, between rehearsals, fashion shows and celebrations, Gisele and Ricardo were finally back in the cozy refuge they called home. The house in Indian Creek, surrounded by peaceful landscapes and bathed in the gentle Florida breeze, was the perfect place to slow down and reflect on the recent events.

Gisele entered through the front door, feeling the comfort of the familiar environment. She was barefoot, wearing a light dress and loose hair, while Ricardo brought the bags inside.

"Finally back," Ricardo said, placing the last bag in the entrance hall. "New York is incredible, but nothing compares to the sound of silence here."

"I agree," Gisele said, sighing. "This house is my sanctuary, especially after such an intense week."

She walked to the living room, where the sunset painted the walls with golden tones. She sat on the sofa and pulled Ricardo to join her.

Gisele leaned her head on Ricardo's shoulder, feeling completely at ease.

"You know," she began, looking out the window at the horizon. "I really loved being back on the runway. For a moment, I felt that unique energy again. It's like I've revisited a part of myself that was kept hidden for years."

Ricardo put his arm around her. "And you shone, Gisele. Not just on the runway, but throughout the entire process. It was like that environment was made for you."

She smiled, looking at him. "It was good to hear people screaming, applauding... But what struck me the most was looking at you, at you and the children, up there in the audience. It was the greatest motivation I could have had."

Ricardo laughed. "Oh, did you notice our hearts and whistles? I thought the audience was too loud for that."

"Of course I noticed," she replied, laughing. "It was impossible not to notice."

Gisele stood up and began to pace the room, hugging herself as she thought.

"But you know what? Even though I loved it all, I don't think I want to go back to modeling regularly. It was a beautiful time, but... I feel like I've already lived through that phase. Now, I want to focus on other things, like my family, my projects and... you."

Ricardo watched her with admiration. "I understand, Gisele. You don't have to prove anything to anyone. And honestly, I think this return was enough to remind the world of what an icon you are."

She sat back down next to him, holding his hand. "Thank you for always supporting me, Ricardo. With you, I feel like I can do anything."

He kissed her forehead. "Because you can, Gisele. And I'll be here, by your side, for whatever decision you make."

Later that night, Ricardo decided to prepare a special dinner. He lit candles on the table on the porch, where they could see the stars beginning to appear in the sky.

As Ricardo finished setting the table, Gisele appeared, wearing a simple white dress that highlighted her natural beauty.

"Wow," Ricardo said, admiring her. "You look stunning, as always."

She laughed softly. "And you are the most charming man I have ever met. What are we celebrating today?"

Ricardo pulled out her chair for her. "We are celebrating you, your triumphant return, and everything that is to come."

As they ate dinner, they talked about future plans. Gisele mentioned projects she wanted to resume, such as environmental and social initiatives, while Ricardo talked about the possibility of opening more gyms in Brazil.

"Maybe I will accompany you on some trips to Brazil," Gisele said thoughtfully. "It would be nice to show the children more of my homeland."

"That would be amazing," Ricardo agreed. "And maybe we can take some time for ourselves too?"

Gisele laughed. "You and your ideas... But I like that."

After dinner, they lay together in the hammock on the balcony, enjoying the night breeze. Ricardo ran his fingers through Gisele's hair, while she looked up at the starry sky.

"Today, I feel like I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be," she said softly.

"Because you are," Ricardo replied, kissing her forehead.

They were silent for a few minutes, just enjoying each other's presence. For Gisele, that moment was more valuable than any applause she received on the catwalk.

Chapter 36 – A Meeting with the Legend

Ricardo has always had a deep connection with the Gracie family, which he considered an extension of his own family. Yet, when he received an invitation from Rickson Gracie, the living legend of jiu-jitsu, to train with him at his academy in California, he felt a mix of excitement and respect. Training with Rickson was a rare honor, something that many in the world of the gentle art only dreamed of.

Ricardo arrived at the discreet but impeccable academy where Rickson taught his lessons. The environment was full of history, with photos of iconic fights, medals, and memorable moments of the Gracie family decorating the walls.

Rickson stood in the center of the mat, adjusting his impeccably white kimono. Despite his age, he maintained an imposing presence and a serenity that inspired immediate respect.

"Ricardo, my friend!" Rickson opened his arms, welcoming him with a warm hug. "I've been waiting for this moment. Finally, we're going to exchange some knowledge."

Ricardo smiled, feeling honored. "The pleasure is all mine, master. You've been an inspiration to me since I started jiu-jitsu."

They began with a light warm-up, moving around the mat with exercises that seemed simple but required focus and technique. With each movement, Rickson corrected details with surgical precision, showing why he was widely recognized as one of the greatest of all time.

"Ricardo," Rickson said as he adjusted a grip, "in jiu-jitsu, the beauty is in the details. It's like life. Sometimes, it's the smallest adjustment that makes the biggest difference."

Ricardo nodded, absorbing every word. "That's true, master. I think that's why jiu-jitsu has taught me so much off the mat as well."

After the warm-up, they moved on to training specific positions. Rickson demonstrated variations of classic techniques that he had perfected over decades.

"Now, I want to see how you get out of this," Rickson said, putting Ricardo at a disadvantage.

Ricardo took a deep breath, analyzing the situation. He moved his hips, adjusted his grip and managed to escape, applying a transition that ended with a perfect armbar.

"Great, Ricardo!" Rickson exclaimed, with a sparkle in his eyes. "You have the spirit of jiu-jitsu. You don't fight with strength, but with intelligence."

"I learned from the best," Ricardo replied, smiling.

After a few hours of technical training, the moment that Ricardo had been waiting for arrived: rolling with Rickson.

They greeted each other with a slap and a handshake in the center of the mat. The world around them seemed to disappear. Every move Rickson made was calculated, fluid and incredibly efficient.

Ricardo struggled to keep up, trying to predict the master's intentions, but it was like trying to read the wind. Rickson always seemed to be one step ahead, dominating the match with an almost supernatural calm.

After several minutes of intense exchange, Rickson managed to finish Ricardo, locking him in a perfect chokehold.

"Good one, master," Ricardo said, laughing as he hit the ground. Rickson smiled, helping him to his feet.

"You did excellent, Ricardo. Few can give me so much trouble. Your technique is impressive."

After the workout, they sat in a corner of the gym, drinking water and exchanging stories. "Ricardo, you are carrying on the legacy of jiu-jitsu with honor," Rickson said, his tone serious. "But the most important thing is how you are using it to impact the lives of others. Training your students, inspiring the next generation… That is as important as winning championships."

Ricardo nodded, moved. "I always try to remember that jiu-jitsu is more than just a fight. It's a philosophy, a way of life. And I learned that from your family, master."

Rickson put his hand on Ricardo's shoulder. "And you're doing an incredible job. I'm proud to see how jiu-jitsu has grown, and people like you are the reason for that."

Before leaving, Rickson invited Ricardo to lunch at his home, where they continued to talk about the evolution of jiu-jitsu, the new generations and the challenges of the sport.

At the end of the day, as he drove back to the hotel, Ricardo reflected on the privilege of having shared the mat with Rickson Gracie. It was more than just a training session; it was a life lesson, an opportunity to connect even more with the roots of an art he loved so much.

He knew that that day would forever be etched in his memory, not only as a moment of technical learning, but as a meeting of souls passionate about the same philosophy of life.

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