Chapter 5
The day for the champions world cup opening ceremony finally arrived. Mia was in her trailer at the back of the stadium with her crew members in sight. Everyone was busy and occupied with their task to make sure the ceremony was a success.
Sofia and Susan were also with her. Although Susan was busy shouting orders and making sure everything was done right, she still made time to check on Sofia after Mia told her everything that she'd discovered.
“Suzy, please do not let Sofia out of your sight. I can't let her meet that disgusting idol of hers”.
Suzy was skeptical but she knew she couldn't win against Mia in an argument. “I promise to keep an eye on her. But you know you've already promised her. Who's gonna sign her jersey?”
“I know Suzy. I'll sort it out. Just keep her busy until after my performance”. Mia pleaded.
“You got it, boss!” Susan replied with a mock bow as they continued with the preparations.
Outside her van, the stage was being set in the middle of one of the largest stadiums in the world. The Supreme Champions Stadium is an eighty-one thousand human capacity stadium of the World Cup championship (WOC) committee in Spain.
The set stage was illuminated with various bright lights, crisscrossing each other in a fancy manner. Susan walked out to talk to the dancers when she took a glance outside. She wiped her phone out of her pocket taking a few snapshots of the set stage as she returned to show Mia.
Squealing in delight, she returned to the van. “Mia, look!” She exclaimed excitedly, flashing her phone in Mia's face as she sat in front of her ring light mirror.
Mia collected the phone from Susan, waving the make-up artist off. Flipping through the phone, “Wow..” She exclaimed. “... it's even more beautiful than I thought.”
“Yes, Mia. It is really beautiful. And you…my friend are more beautiful because today is the day you shine brighter than you've ever shone in your life.” Susan squealed, hyping Mia up.
Mia was touched by Susan's gesture as she struggled to blink back the tears that threatened to make their way down her face.“Oh, Susan. You're going to make me ruin my makeup, girl. You're so sweet. I couldn't have asked for a more deserving friend than you. I love you.” Mia said, sniffling back the tears.
“I love you too, my very beautiful, famous friend,” Susan replied and they both laughed.
Susan excused the makeup artist as she continued to check on Sofia. But as she got to her section of the van, Sofia wasn't there.“Hey! Has anyone seen Sofia?” Susan asked the crew members around. They answered in the negative. Susan became alarmed, but she kept it to herself and decided to keep it to herself. She couldn't afford Mia panicking and ruining the whole performance if she couldn't find her daughter.
She noticed the magazine on Sofia's bed. As she got closer she saw Andreas picture and got a clue where Sofia might've gone. Excusing herself, she exited the van and went in search of Sofia.
Meanwhile, a while ago, while Mia and Susan had been busy with their jobs, Sofia was given some snacks, drinks, and toys to keep her from distracting her mother. Sofia was bored as she looked around for something to do when her eyes landed on a magazine on the floor.
Curious, she rushed to pick it up. Flipping through the pages she began to see photos of some footballers she knew. She also saw a picture of her mother on one of the pages and she beamed with a smile as she muttered to herself. “That's my beautiful and famous mummy.”
She kept flipping through the pages until a particular picture caught her eye. It was a picture of her favorite football player. Excitement enveloped her as she read through the page which made her aware that he was part of the players for tonight's match.
Sofia put two and two together when she realized he'd probably be around the stadium somewhere. She was about to go ask her mother if she could come with her when she remembered her aunty Susan's warning not to disturb her mother today.
Determined, Sofia carefully snuck past her babysitter and a few of the crew members as she got out of her van in her search for her idol.
Sofia looked around, lost for a while, walking majestically past all the staff towards the player's dressing room.As soon as she got there, she looked around curiously. But the players hardly noticed her, thinking she was one of the child mascots for the game seeing she was dressed in a jersey and shorts.
Disappointed, Sofia turned to return to their van, but there was a problem. She couldn't find her way back. She suddenly began to be scared. The stadium was already getting filled with people as they dropped into the stadium in their thousands.
Her thoughts alarmed her. What if she never finds her mother again? She thought.
“Mummy…!” Sofia called out, her voice breaking slightly. Realizing she might be lost, she started crying, when she heard a voice behind her.
“Are you a lost, kid?”
Turning around, she came face to face with her idol, Andreas Leonardo.
“Mr. Andreas…” Sofia exclaimed, forgetting that she was crying a while ago.
Andreas chuckled softly at the child's quick change of countenance. “Yes. I'm Andreas. What's your name?” He asked as he crouched in front of her.
“Sofia.” She replied.
“Nice to meet you Sofia. What are you doing out here alone? Where are your parents?” Andreas asked, concerned.
“My mother is in her van. I left to go look for you and now I can't find my way back.”
Andreas was taken aback by the kid's boldness.“I take it you're a fan then?” He asked, smiling.
“Huge fan,” Sofia answered, gesticulating with her hands. Andreas couldn't help but laugh at how cute she was.
“Alright Sofia. I'll take you back to your mummy now okay. Just tell me which van she's in.” Andreas said.
“I don't know which van mummy's in. They all look the same”. Sofia lamented.
“It's okay, Sofia. You said your mother is in her van right? That means she's… Wait.” Andreas paused as it dawned on him.
“Your mother is the singer, Mia Martinez?...” Andreas added when he heard a feminine voice call out.
“Sofia? Baby, where did you run off to?” It was Mia.
"Sofia, get away from that man!" She adds, her tone hasty.
Andreas stared at her, stunned, as she walked majestically towards them. He gasped softly as he stared at her as if his life depended on it. She was even more beautiful in person, this woman. This woman who had been the object of his teenage infatuation, was standing in front of him.
But something was wrong. She was staring wide-eyed at him, with a horrified look on her face.
She rushed forward, grabbing Sofia by the arm as she faced Andreas squarely.
Chapter 6As the stadium's bright lights cast a golden glow on the lush green field, Andreas's turbulent emotions threatened to upend his entire world. He felt his will to succeed leave him. His morale drained from him. And for the first time in his career, he didn't want to be part of a game because he wasn't confident of winning. Their opposing team are two times world champions and current continental champions. Based on all odds, his team didn't stand a chance. In the dressing room, Andreas had been the subject of ridicule among his teammates. "Hey guys, guess who's performing in the opening ceremony?" one of the players asked, and the room erupted in mocking laughter. "It's our boy's sugar mummy!" another player yelled, making the others laugh even louder. "He thinks he's got a shot! I don't blame him though. I mean... she's hot!" Nico interjected, shooting Andreas a dangerous glare. Andreas couldn't take it anymore, so he threw down the towel he was holding and walked tow
Chapter 7Mia trotted back to her van, her heart still racing from the encounter. As she stepped into the van, she was greeted by the concerned faces of her team. "Where's Sofia?" She asked immediately, and was informed that she had locked herself in her section of the van and refused to come out. Mia sighed warily as she plopped down on her small cushion. She'd always wanted to bring her daughter along. She wanted her daughter to watch her perform on the biggest stage of her career. But she'd ruined it. Her heart felt heavy, and she let the tears flow freely. "Oh, no! You're ruining your makeup, Mia." Susan's agitated voice called out. "Guys, come over here. We need to fix her makeup. Again." Susan pulled out a box of tissues, handing them to Mia. As Mia's team worked to repair her makeup, Susan tried to reassure her. "Mia, just let Sofia have what she wants. You brought her here to spend time with you, and not so you two could bicker." Mia was unable to say anything, but Susan
Chapter 8Andreas watched from the pitch as Mia's powerful voice filled the stadium. His eyes fixed on her with a mixture of admiration and longing. He couldn't help but feel a sense of pride as he watched her command the stage with her presence. As Mia's performance reached its climax, Andreas found himself drawn to her, his feet moving of their own accord and he found himself singing to all the classics he'd enjoyed as a teenager up until now. Andreas stood confidently on the field, his chiseled features and piercing blue eyes gleaming. The warm glow of the setting sun cast a golden light on his broad shoulders, accentuating the powerful muscles that rippled beneath his sleek jersey. He stood there surrounded by his teammates and their child mascot. Looking down at his entwined hands with Sofia, Mia’s daughter, he could feel her excitement. Just as his gaze returned to Mia, her eyes met his, and for a moment, they just stared at each other. The air was electric with tension, and
Chapter 9"Spectacular! Oh my God! That was unbelievable. An unexpected come back and a brilliant way to start the season. The Sunshine Stars reclaim their position in the league with an electrifying 3-2 win against the Golden warriors football club. Which is of course thanks to the man of the moment, Andreas Leonardo. The man of the match and we have him right here with us. So Andreas, tell us how you feel about this win. Are you excited?" A female interviewer asked Andreas who'd just come down from the stage where he received the man of the match award. Andreas flashed a dazzling smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Of course I'm excited. And I'm ready to do more. This is just the beginning for us." He replied confidently, his deep voice sending a thrill through the watching crowd. The stadium's thunderous applause still echoed in the air as Andreas, the star soccer player, stood confidently in front of the camera, his chiseled features and piercing blue eyes gleaming with tr
Chapter 10 Three weeks had passed since Mia's electrifying performance, and her name was still on everyone's lips. She had catapulted to the top ten most talked-about celebrities, and for once, it was for all the right reasons. But amidst the chaos of her newfound fame, Mia's mind kept drifting back to Andreas. She had thought that maybe, just maybe, he had felt the same spark that she had. But as the days turned into weeks, and she heard nothing from him, Mia realized that she had been foolish to think that he had been interested in her. She'd immersed herself into her work to keep him from popping in and out of her thoughts but it was futile. “You're just stressed, Mia. It's nothing”. She muttered to herself as she sat in her office, staring blankly at her laptop screen, Mia couldn't shake off the feeling of disappointment that had settled in the pit of her stomach. As she scrolled through her laptop, she couldn't help herself as she typed up Andreas name. She later decided ag
Chapter 11 Andreas's career had never been better. His club had just renewed his contract, and he had accepted the offer, thanks to the unwavering faith Coach Hernandez had in him. The thrill of the game still pulsed through his veins, and the rush of adrenaline was addicting. Ever since their last win in previous match against the Golden Warriors, his team had gone on to win two other games. All which he scored at least one goal in each game. But despite his success, something was missing. Ever since his encounter with Mia, his childhood superstar crush, he hadn't been able to shake her off his mind. His encounter with Mia had awaken a feeling inside him which he didn't think was possible ever since his last failed attempt at love. At first he thought it was just his childhood fantasies returning but the feelings lingered so much so that he'd dreamt of her a couple of times. That night after their match, he was talking to Mia and was finally going to get a chance to convince
Chapter 12Mia's private jet touched down on the runway, sending a flurry of paparazzi into a frenzy. Mia's mere presence was a magnet, drawing in the gaze of everyone around her like a supernova exploding in the night sky. Her eyes, like two glittering sapphires, sparkled with a mix of frustration and exhaustion. The weight of her fame, the constant scrutiny, and the relentless attention had taken its toll. Despite the fact that Mia wore a full disguise, a black hoodie which she used to hide hair, a nose mask and a dark shade of glass to hide her face, her fans still recognized her. As she stepped off the plane, a cacophony of camera shutters and screams of excitement assaulted her senses. As she walked down the airport Isle, she just waved and bowed politely at her enthusiastic fans as she hurried towards the waiting car. Her security team swiftly ushered her toward the sleek, black Mercedes waiting to whisk her away to the luxurious resort that would be her home for the next w
Chapter 13 The darkness of the night enveloped Mia like a shroud, her exhaustion evident. She'd just stepped out of the shower, the warm water cascading down her skin like a gentle caress, when she saw him. Andreas was sitting on the sofa, his eyes fixed intently on her, his presence seeming to fill the entire room. Mia's heart skipped a beat as she felt a jolt of electricity run through her veins. She was naked, except for the towel wrapped around her, and Andreas's gaze seemed to burn with an inner fire. "What are you doing in my room?" she demanded, her voice husky with agitation. Andreas didn't respond, his eyes never leaving hers as he stood up and walked towards her. Mia's breath caught in her throat as he approached, his movements fluid and predatory. She backed away slowly, her eyes locked on his, until she felt the wall behind her. "I need you to leave my room. Now!" she exclaimed, her voice trembling with emotion. But Andreas just smiled, his eyes glinting with amusement,
Chapter 20Mia's point of view.Despite my internal turmoil that threatened to overwhelm me, I still continued working unabated. The reviews for the foundation’s campaign that'd we'd done a week ago were in. It was mostly positive which made me so happy and fulfilled. The workload was something else but I was grateful for it.As I sorted through the bulky paperwork on my desk, I was grateful for the distraction. I hid behind my work to avoid letting my mind wander to Andreas, to worrying about if he was okay. The news about his injury had spread like wildfire. Being one of the most valuable players in the world, a lot of people were becoming anxious about his career. But up until now, there hasn't been an official statement on his wellbeing, which bothered me. Though I tried to pretend it didn't. I simply pushed those thoughts aside, using work as an escape. I was focused on my laptop, typing away as I sorted through paperwork work when my door suddenly slid open. I didn't bother
Chapter 20Mia returned back to her life of fame and prioritized her daughprioritizedndal with Lucas, and her cousin April seemed to die down after the media found another Juicy showbiz gossip to be obsessed about. But the sting of her sister's betrayal still lingered in her memory but she pushed it aside.Overshadowing her thoughts now was the memory of Andreas and their few times together. She had made sure to avoid him since their passionate kiss, not wanting to complicate her life further. She made sure Andreas couldn't reach her. Especially now that he had lots of international competition games to play due to the upcoming World Football Championship Cup games. But still, the memory of him never left her. Everything seemed to remind her of him. Especially now as Sofia and Nick, Susan's son, forced them to watch the football game between Andreas' team and a rival team, Athletic Soccer stars. Mia had intended to drop Sofia off for a sleepover with other kids when Sofia overheard
Chapter 19Mia's point of view. I returned to my room that night with a lot of mixed emotions. What was I thinking? Was it because of the drink I had on my way out of the hall. I'd gulped a few glasses of wine earlier. It had dulled my senses, making my thoughts hazy. I tried to push aside the guilt, but it only seemed to intensify as the night wore on. My heart had leapt in shock as I turned around, to find Andreas had followed me to the garden. The memories of Andreas's lips on mine still lingered, making my skin prickle with a mix of shame and desire. I shouldn't be doing this, I thought, not with him. He's so young, and I don't want to hurt him.Pushing aside my thoughts, I hurried to the bathroom ignoring the knocking sound on my door. I knew it was Susan trying to see if I was okay, but I didn't want to see anyone this night. Not now. As I stepped into the shower, I turned it on as I stepped in without taking off my clothes, I let the water wash down my pain and anxiety. The
Chapter 18Andrea's point of view The night had started on a high note, with Mia's enchanting presence. And I found myself drawn to her the entire time. my eyes never leaving her. And her performance was magical, mesmerizing the entire room. But it was a magical moment that turned sour, leaving a bitter taste in my mouth.As she scanned the phone screen, her face paled with shock, and I felt my heart sink. While she performed one of her songs which I loved, suddenly everyone's phone blipped with the notifications. The headline screamed at me, making my blood boil with anger. Who could have done this to her? My heart raced with the implications. As Mia rushed out of the hall, her pain and anguish evident. I quickly followed, my concern for her overwhelming. I pushed through the crowds, my eyes scanning the room for any sign of her. But she was already gone.The cool night air hit me like a slap in the face as I burst out of the hall, my eyes scanning the gardens for any sign of her.
Chapter 17Mia's point of view. I'd been hiding in the comfort of my room, avoiding the world outside, and especially Andreas. The memory of our almost-kiss still lingered, making my skin prickle with unease. I can't believe I almost kissed him. Thankfully, the shoot had come to an end today and I wouldn't have to see him anymore. But for the dinner party organized to signify the end of the shoot tonight, which I was not going to attend.But Susan had other plans. She burst into my room, a determined glint in her eye, followed by a trail of crew members."Mia, what do you think you're doing?" she asked, her voice laced with exasperation. "Why are you still in those distasteful clothes?" Her eyes scanned my outfit, her nose wrinkling in distaste.I sighed, feeling a wave of guilt wash over me. I'd been unfair to Susan, especially after the Lucas issue. But she didn't seem to hold it against me, her determination to get me to the dinner party unwavering."Suzy, I've told you. I'm not
Chapter 16Andreas's point of view. I stood at the window of my villa, gazing out at the endless expanse of turquoise water. My mind, however, was elsewhere - with Mia. As I paced around my villa, I wondered what she'd be doing right now. Just like she'd warned me some days back, I decided to give her some space. But I'm starting to think that was a bad idea. Also, I couldn't shake the feeling that I'd misjudged her, that there was more to her than met the eye. Her dedication to her daughter, Sofia, was admirable, and I found myself drawn to her strength and resilience. Though her estranged husband was a thorn in her flesh. I didn't think he'd be bothering her still. Guess I was wrong. During our shoots together, I noticed how she'd avoid contact with me even when we were clearly working together. Mia was a professional and she’d kept our relationship as such. She was friendly with everyone, including the crew members so, I was a little jealous that I was the only one she wasn't
Chapter 15Mia's point of view. After three days of continued shooting, we finally got a day off. In the previous days, Andreas had respected my decision and kept his distance from me. But I wondered why it still bothered me so much. Whenever the ladies would swarm around him, being at his beck and call I'd feel irritated. Even if I knew I had no right to be. Maybe it's because it has been long since I dated someone. It certainly wasn't because I was jealous. Right? But these past few days, Andreas showed impeccable professionalism, showing up to shoot location on time and leaving right after without teasing or passing any remarks my way. And If I'm honest, it bothered me. But maybe it's for the best. Like the day of our shoots with children models, Andreas showed such patience and understanding unlike I'd even see in any man. No wonder he was so sweet with Sofia. Today was finally our day off and I wondered what Andreas would be doing with his. I bet he'd be messing around
Chapter 14The next morning, Mia and Andreas had a briefing with the photographer about the concept of their next shoot. Mia arrived, her game face firmly in place. But she was surprised to find Andreas was already there, sipping coffee and chatting with the crew. He flashed her a charming smile, but Mia's expression remained icy. "Good morning, Mia," he said, his voice dripping with charm. "I see you're as lovely as ever." Mia's eyes narrowed, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Oh, good morning, Andreas. I see you're as punctual as ever." The crew tittered nervously, but Andreas just chuckled. "I see we're starting the day off on the right foot." Mia's eyes narrowed, her voice icy. "Let's just get this over with, shall we?" As they sat down, the assistant handed them the script and Mia's eyes scanned the revised script, her brow furrowing as she landed on the offending line. "This is ridiculous," she muttered, tossing the pages onto the conference table. Andreas, lounging in his
Chapter 13 The darkness of the night enveloped Mia like a shroud, her exhaustion evident. She'd just stepped out of the shower, the warm water cascading down her skin like a gentle caress, when she saw him. Andreas was sitting on the sofa, his eyes fixed intently on her, his presence seeming to fill the entire room. Mia's heart skipped a beat as she felt a jolt of electricity run through her veins. She was naked, except for the towel wrapped around her, and Andreas's gaze seemed to burn with an inner fire. "What are you doing in my room?" she demanded, her voice husky with agitation. Andreas didn't respond, his eyes never leaving hers as he stood up and walked towards her. Mia's breath caught in her throat as he approached, his movements fluid and predatory. She backed away slowly, her eyes locked on his, until she felt the wall behind her. "I need you to leave my room. Now!" she exclaimed, her voice trembling with emotion. But Andreas just smiled, his eyes glinting with amusement,