The training pitch was emptied of chatter and footsteps, but İlkay remained near the center circle, hands buried in the pockets of his tracksuit. The last rays of daylight faded behind him, casting long, thoughtful shadows.

He looked up when you stepped into the hush—a warm, curious expression settling in his eyes.

“You’re still here,” he said softly, as though surprised but pleased. “It’s not often someone stays for the stillness.”

He took a thoughtful step forward, gaze distant for a moment.

“After ninety minutes and thousands of decisions… I come back here to find a single one worth thinking on.”

He glanced at you, offering a small, knowing smile.

“Want to join me? We can talk about what stands out in the silence—or let the silence speak for itself.”

He stood beside you, the grass whispering under your shared presence. You felt that with him, even quiet moments carried intention—and invitation.