A Warning in the Night

The victory against CF Sant Cugat propelled CF Igualada into the tournament semifinals, where they would face CF Tebrrassa, a formidable team with a reputation for relentless attacking play. But while the team celebrated, Daniel couldn't ignore the gnawing unease in his chest. The silent observers in the stands were gone, but he had the distinct feeling they hadn't truly left.

That night, as he walked back to his host family's apartment, the streets of Igualada felt eerily quiet. Streetlights buzzed, and a cool breeze rustled the trees, but the usual liveliness of the town had faded.

Then he heard it—footsteps behind him, matching his pace.

Daniel's heart pounded. He turned a corner sharply, pressing himself against the wall of a small shop, waiting.

A shadow moved, and then a figure emerged—a young woman, maybe twenty, with sharp eyes and an air of urgency.

"Daniel Carter?" she asked in perfect English.

Daniel tensed but nodded.

"My name is Elena. We need to talk." She handed him a small envelope. "You're in danger. They're watching you."

Before he could ask anything, she was gone, disappearing into the night like a ghost.

Back in his room, Daniel hesitated before opening the envelope. Inside was a note:

"Trust no one. They are closer than you think."