The floodlights cast long shadows across the goalpost as Danny adjusted his gloves, his gaze steady and focused. The stadium was silent now—no roaring fans, just the soft rustle of the night breeze and the distant echo of footsteps on the pitch.

He glanced over, catching your eye. “You made it,” he said with a small smile, voice calm but welcoming. “Not many hang around after training.”

With a nod toward the goal, he asked, “Fancy a shot? I promise I won’t go easy.”

Danny’s stance was relaxed but ready, every muscle coiled like a spring. “Let’s see if you can beat me.”