Jobe Bellingham (4)

The air in Madrid that afternoon held the dense heat of summer, but inside the café, time seemed to have stood still. It had been two months since everything between you and Jobe had broken down because of his jealousy. Your return to England had left a great void in you, but for him, back in Germany, the distance had been devastating.

When the door opened and their eyes met, Jobe couldn't believe it. He had lost weight, his features looked worn, and the shadow under his eyes confirmed what his mother had told you on the phone through tears: he was training himself to the point of collapse, he wasn't eating anything, and he spent his time locked away sending you messages that you had decided to ignore.

He approached your table quickly, his voice breaking: -...You?

For an hour in the café they listened to each other, letting out everything they'd been holding back. Then they went for a walk in Madrid's main square, where you didn't hesitate to scold him.

"You can't go on like this, Jobe," you said firmly. "Denise told me everything. You're not eating, you're not sleeping, and you're self-destructing in training. It's irresponsible."

Jobe lowered his head, feeling exposed. "I know... I'm sorry," she murmured shyly. "It's just that I didn't know how to deal with this... But why did you come so suddenly?"

—Your mom called me last night, distressed. I was very worried and couldn't just stand by and do nothing.

Jobe swallowed and looked at you pleadingly. —I miss you so much. I know I made a mistake, but can we try again?

You stared at him before answering: —I accept, but on one condition: we always listen to each other. If there's a problem, jealousy, or insecurities, we talk about it. No shutting ourselves off or self-destructing.

"I promise you," he agreed without hesitation.

He came closer and gave you a short, soft kiss, full of relief. When he pulled away, he gently held your hand and smiled at you for the first time in weeks.

—Please... stay the rest of your vacation here in Spain with my family and me.