Chapter 42 : Outing

Back at home, Nico was enjoying dinner with the Guardiola family. As usual, Valentina sat on his lap, giggling as he fed her. The atmosphere in the room was light and warm, with everyone chatting about their day. Marius, with a playful look on his face, looked at Nico and asked, "Are you even human? How do you always score in the dying minutes? It's like you've got a superpower or something!"

Nico laughed, shaking his head. "I don't know about superpowers," he replied with a smile, "but I've had a lot of practice and a lot of good coaches to help me get to where I am. It's all about staying calm in those moments."

As Valentina giggled, Nico couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. The warmth of the meal and the familiarity of the family around him made him feel at home, even though he was miles away from his biological grandparents. Maria, sitting across from them, smiled at the conversation, and even Guardiola and Christina exchanged amused glances, clearly proud of Nico's hard work and the positive influence he had on their children.

As they continued chatting, Nico couldn't help but reflect on how fortunate he was to have found this second family, all while balancing his career and the incredible pressures that came with it. But in moments like these, surrounded by people who cared for him, he felt grounded.

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The next day, it was a rest day, and after completing his usual morning routine, Nico took a quick shower and settled on the couch, relaxing and watching some TV. As he leaned back, Maria walked in, smiling. Without a word, she hugged him from behind, resting her chin on his shoulder.

"Hey, you up for going out? It's a nice day," she asked, her voice warm.

Nico turned his head slightly, giving her a smile. "Sure, where to?"

Maria thought for a moment, looking out the window. "Maybe just a walk around the city. We can grab a coffee or something. No rush, just... get some fresh air."

Nico nodded. "Sounds perfect. Let me just get ready."

As Nico stood up, Maria playfully tightened her hug, causing him to laugh. "I'm not letting go until you agree to go out with me," she teased.

"You know I'm already in," he replied, giving her a soft peck on the cheek before heading to get ready for their day out.

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Nico smiled as he saw Maria come out, looking effortlessly stylish in her white crop top, black jacket, and denim. She had a playful grin on her face as she approached him.

"Ready to go?" she asked, slipping on her shoes.

Nico nodded, picking up his small backpack that held the woolen jacket and thermos. "Always ready. You look great, by the way," he added with a wink.

Maria chuckled, "Thanks. I could say the same about you. Let's get going before it gets too late."

The two of them stepped outside, feeling the crisp air of the day. As they walked down the street, Nico couldn't help but notice how comfortable and natural everything felt. Even though their relationship was still young, it was easy to talk and be with Maria, like they'd known each other forever.

"So," Maria began as they walked side by side, "what's been the highlight of your season so far? Besides, you know... every match."

Nico smiled, thinking for a moment. "I guess just being able to contribute. Every match, I try to do my best and help the team. It's been amazing to see the support from the fans. But honestly, every time I see my teammates happy or making progress, that's a win for me too."

Maria smiled, impressed by his humility. "You're too modest. You've been amazing. Everyone knows you're one of the best in the world now, Nico."

Nico shook his head, "I've still got a lot to prove. But hey, it's a good feeling knowing I'm making an impact."

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As they wandered through the streets of Manchester, the chilly air carried a quiet calm, making their walk all the more peaceful. Maria held onto Nico's arm, pulling him toward different spots she liked in the city. 

"Here, let's take a picture," she said, stopping in front of a beautifully lit street decorated for the approaching holiday season. 

Nico chuckled but nodded, standing next to her as Maria held up her phone. She leaned in close, resting her head against his shoulder as they smiled for the camera. 

She checked the picture and grinned. "Perfect. Now, one more—just you." 

Nico sighed dramatically. "Fine, fine. But don't go posting it without approval." 

Maria rolled her eyes playfully. "No promises." 

As they continued walking, Maria kept snapping photos—of the city, of Nico, of small moments between them. Nico wasn't someone who took many pictures himself, but Maria enjoyed capturing memories, and he let her. 

After a while, they stopped at a bridge overlooking the water. Maria leaned on the railing, staring at the reflection of the city lights in the river. Nico stood beside her, hands in his pockets, just enjoying the moment. 

"It's been a while since I walked around like this," he admitted. 

Maria turned to him with a soft smile. "That's why I brought you out. You need to take a breath sometimes, Nico. Not everything has to be about football, you know." 

Nico chuckled. "I know, I know. And I appreciate it. Today's been nice." 

Maria nodded, watching him for a moment before pulling out her phone again. "One last picture." 

This time, she didn't ask Nico to pose. She just captured him looking out at the water, lost in thought. The glow of the streetlights reflected in his emerald-green eyes, making the photo look almost unreal. 

She smiled to herself, knowing this was a memory she wanted to keep.

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As they walked through the dimly lit streets, Maria tightened her grip on Nico's arm, her expression shifting slightly. 

"You know I might not see you as often next season, right?" Nico said, glancing at her. 

Maria frowned. "Why? What do you mean?" 

Nico sighed, kicking a small pebble on the pavement. "You know I'm on loan from Barcelona. I came to Man City because I wasn't ready for their starting eleven at the time, and Pep promised me that he would help me grow." 

Maria stayed silent, letting his words sink in. 

Nico continued, "But next season, I'll be back at Barcelona. That was always the plan." 

Maria looked down, her fingers unconsciously gripping his sleeve tighter. "I knew this would happen eventually, but…" 

She trailed off, not finishing her sentence. 

Nico stopped walking and turned to face her. "Hey," he said gently, tilting her chin up so she could meet his gaze. "It's not like I'm disappearing. We'll still see each other. I'll visit when I can, and you can come to Spain whenever you want." 

Maria let out a small breath, trying to push away the sadness that was creeping in. "Yeah… but it won't be the same." 

Nico gave her a small smile. "I know. But I also know you're strong, Maria. And this isn't goodbye. It's just… a new chapter." 

Maria sighed but then smiled softly. "I swear, sometimes you sound way older than fifteen." 

Nico chuckled. "Blame my grandpa." 

She let out a small laugh before taking his hand in hers, intertwining their fingers as they continued walking. "Then I'll just have to enjoy the time we have left here," she said, squeezing his hand lightly. 

Nico nodded, squeezing back. "Me too."

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Maria smirked, looking up at him with a teasing glint in her eyes. "So next season, if you were to play against Man City… who do you think I'll support?"

Nico raised an eyebrow. "I mean, your dad is literally the manager of City. Your family lives in Manchester. It should be an easy answer, right?"

Maria tapped her chin, pretending to think. "Well… I do love Man City, and I always support my dad. But at the same time—" she turned to him with a mischievous smile "—my boyfriend will be on the other team. And I kinda like him a lot."

Nico chuckled. "Kinda?"

She rolled her eyes. "Okay, fine. I like you a lot. Happy?"

"Very," he said, smirking.

Maria sighed dramatically. "Ugh, this is hard! Maybe I'll just support a draw. That way, no one loses!"

Nico shook his head, laughing. "That's the most uncommitted answer ever."

Maria nudged him lightly. "Okay, okay… If you score, I'll be happy for you. But if you score against City, I'm gonna be really annoyed."

Nico smirked. "So if I score a hat-trick?"

Maria gasped, playfully shoving him. "Don't you dare!"

He laughed. "No promises."

Maria sighed in defeat but smiled. "Fine. I guess I'll just have to accept that my boyfriend might be the reason City loses a game someday."

Nico grinned. "And when that happens, I expect a kiss for every goal I score."

Maria turned red, but she quickly covered it up with a smirk. "In your dreams, Cruyff."

He laughed as they continued walking home, hand in hand.

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After the walk with Maria, time seemed to fly by. Days blurred into weeks as Manchester City continued their dominant run across all competitions. The team was in peak form, and Nico Cruyff was at the heart of it, pulling the strings in midfield, delivering assists, and scoring crucial goals.

November 26, 2015 – Champions League, Group Stage, Match 5

Juventus vs. Manchester CityManchester City traveled to Turin to face Juventus in a crucial Champions League clash. With qualification for the knockout stages already secured, City looked to finish strong in Group D. Juventus, determined to challenge for the top spot, came out aggressive, but Guardiola's side controlled possession.

Nico was once again instrumental, dictating the tempo of the game and carving open Juve's defense. In the 32nd minute, he delivered a perfect through ball to Raheem Sterling, who slotted it past Gianluigi Buffon. Juventus equalized through Paulo Dybala in the 61st minute, but City responded in the 78th minute, with Nico threading another beautiful assist to Sergio Agüero, who calmly finished.

Full-time: Juventus 1-2 Manchester City

Goals: Sterling (32'), Agüero (78')

Assists: Nico (2)

With this win, Manchester City solidified their dominance in the group, with one match remaining.

November 28, 2015 – Premier League, Match 14

Manchester City vs. SouthamptonBack at the Etihad, City faced Southampton in the Premier League. Southampton played with intensity, pressing high, but Nico, Agüero, and De Bruyne ran the show.

Nico was on another level, providing three assists in one match, completing an assist hat-trick. He first set up Agüero in the 15th minute with a stunning lofted pass over the defense. His second assist came from a perfectly curled corner, which Agüero headed in. The third assist was a beautiful link-up play between Nico and KDB, before Agüero completed his own hat-trick.

Full-time: Manchester City 3-1 Southampton

Goals: Agüero (15', 39', 76')

Assists: Nico (3)

With another dominant win, City remained at the top of the Premier League table.

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December 2, 2015 – EFL Cup, Quarterfinals

Manchester City vs. Hull CityWith a packed schedule, Guardiola decided to rest Nico for the EFL Cup quarterfinal against Hull City. Even without their young star, City played brilliantly, comfortably securing a 4-1 victory.

Goals: Kelechi Iheanacho (2), Jesús Navas (1), Wilfried Bony (1)

Manchester City advanced to the EFL Cup semifinals.

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December 5, 2015 – Premier League, Match 15

Stoke City vs. Manchester CityAway at Stoke's Bet365 Stadium, City faced a physically tough challenge against Mark Hughes' side. Stoke were strong in duels, but City's technical brilliance prevailed.

Nico led the attack once again, scoring two goals. He opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a long-range shot that swerved into the top corner. Yaya Touré extended City's lead with a powerful penalty in the second half. In the 75th minute, Nico sealed the game with a stunning solo effort, dribbling past two defenders before chipping the goalkeeper.

Full-time: Stoke City 1-3 Manchester City

Goals: Nico (23', 75'), Touré (56' pen)

Assists: Aguero(2)

Nico continued his incredible form, now adding goals to his already impressive assist tally.

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December 9, 2015 – Champions League, Group Stage, Match 6

Manchester City vs. Borussia MönchengladbachThe final group-stage match of the Champions League saw City take on Borussia Mönchengladbach at the Etihad. Already having qualified, Guardiola still fielded a strong lineup, looking to secure first place in the group.

Nico was at his best yet again, scoring two goals and playing a major role in City's attacking dominance. His first goal came in the 35th minute, a stunning S-shaped free kick that left the goalkeeper rooted to the spot. His second goal was a brilliant solo run, cutting past two defenders before slotting it into the bottom right corner.

Agüero and David Silva also found the net, wrapping up a convincing win.

Full-time: Manchester City 4-1 Borussia Mönchengladbach

Goals: Nico (35', 67'), Agüero (50'), Silva (80')

Assists: Sterling(2) , Kompany(1) , Kevin(1)

With this victory, City finished at the top of Group D, undefeated, with Juventus securing second place.

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December 12, 2015 – Premier League, Match 16

Manchester City vs. Swansea CityBack in the Premier League, City hosted Swansea at the Etihad. It was a tough match, with Swansea defending deep and looking to counterattack.

City finally broke through in the 56th minute, as Nico provided a beautiful assist for Raheem Sterling, who calmly finished past the goalkeeper. Swansea equalized, but Sterling struck again in the dying moments to give City the win.

Full-time: Manchester City 2-1 Swansea City

Goals: Sterling (56', 89')

Assists: Nico (1) , Fernandinho(1)

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After 16 matches in the 2015-16 Premier League season, Manchester City remains undefeated, sitting comfortably at the top of the table with 15 wins and one draw.

1st - Manchester City (46 points) → 15 wins, 1 draw, 0 losses, 45 goals scored, 12 conceded (+33 GD)2nd - Arsenal (35 points) → 11 wins, 2 draws, 3 losses, 33 goals scored, 15 conceded (+18 GD)3rd - Leicester City (34 points) → 10 wins, 4 draws, 2 losses, 34 goals scored, 19 conceded (+15 GD)4th - Manchester United (32 points) → 9 wins, 5 draws, 2 losses, 25 goals scored, 10 conceded (+15 GD)5th - Tottenham (30 points) → 8 wins, 6 draws, 2 losses, 28 goals scored, 13 conceded (+15 GD)6th - Liverpool (29 points) → 8 wins, 5 draws, 3 losses, 27 goals scored, 18 conceded (+9 GD)7th - West Ham (27 points) → 7 wins, 6 draws, 3 losses, 25 goals scored, 20 conceded (+5 GD)8th - Crystal Palace (26 points) → 8 wins, 2 draws, 6 losses, 23 goals scored, 18 conceded (+5 GD)9th - Everton (24 points) → 6 wins, 6 draws, 4 losses, 27 goals scored, 22 conceded (+5 GD)10th - Southampton (22 points) → 6 wins, 4 draws, 6 losses, 24 goals scored, 21 conceded (+3 GD)

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The date was December 13, 2015, and after an intense match against Swansea, the team had been given a rest day.

Nico was sitting on the couch, leaning back comfortably, watching TV with Maria beside him. She had tucked her legs up, sitting cross-legged, her head resting lightly on his shoulder. The warmth of the room contrasted with the chilly weather outside, making it a perfect lazy day.

They weren't watching anything in particular—just flipping through channels, occasionally pausing to comment on random things. Maria absentmindedly played with the hem of her sweater before turning to Nico.

"You know, this is nice," she said softly. "Just sitting here, doing nothing."

Nico smirked. "Yeah, it's rare that I get days like this."

Maria chuckled. "Exactly, that's why I'm making you stay put today. No training, no overworking yourself—just a normal day like normal people."

Nico let out a small laugh. "You act like I'm a robot or something."

Maria poked his side. "Well… sometimes, you kind of are."

Nico just shook his head with a smile, wrapping an arm around her shoulder as they continued watching, enjoying the rare moment of peace.