1. Chapter 1

Chapter 1

Cattleya Cardona

Four years later. The Present

"Go up, up!" I shout to my teammate as I motion with my hand to go down. It's a tactic I use quite often: say one thing and do another. It usually distracts our opponents, but my team knows what I mean; we've been playing together for three years now. Right on cue, the defender stops chasing me, waiting to see what I'm going to do. And I dash to their side of the pitch. It takes her a couple of seconds to catch up with me, but it's enough time for me to look up and scan for my teammates. Lina is wide open, while Maria has three girls surrounding her. I kick the ball as hard as I can with the side of my cleat, and the ball lifts off the ground, creating a beautiful arch. Lina stops the ball with her chest, and by the time the defenders catch on to what's happening, she's facing the goalie. I make it in time to get myself in front of the defense as a shield, and Lina kicks the ball with her left foot—her blessed one—and the next thing I know, there's a roar from the bleachers. Lina gets the ball out of the net and starts pointing at me as she goes to the corner of the pitch for our celebration. I join the group hug as Maria shouts, "We're in the final, bitches!"

We all explode in cheers, the environment is electric, and the fans can feel it too—they're celebrating just as much, if not more than we are. The ref blows the whistle, calling us to finish up the game. The rush of adrenaline running through my veins is like an extra push to finish this match strong. I'm not sure how many minutes are left, but I know we're getting closer to the end of the second half.

The people in the bleachers are getting antsy, but the chants stay strong. I'm loving the environment today. I wish it were this packed every single weekend. But women's soccer is still very underrated. One day we'll get there. It's the first time we have a sold-out match—forty thousand people in attendance—and I'm thrilled it's ending with a win. We're going to the Colombian Women's Soccer Cup final!

Once all the postgame activities are over—interviews, press conference, and coach's speech—I'm in the locker room with my teammates, shooting the shit while we take showers and change out of our uniforms.

"Cata, we have tomorrow off. Wanna go out?" Lina, the top scorer of our team and my bestie, asks with her usual smirk. She loves going out, and I'm a little bit on the introverted side, but after tonight's match, I'm still high on adrenaline, so I nod in agreement. She hollers while fist-pumping the air, and I chuckle at her antics. We catch up with the other girls heading to the parking lot. Since it was a home game, we were all able to drive to the stadium, but I guess my girl here had a feeling we were going to win. When I wonder if we're taking both cars, she says, "I took an Uber here."

We are lucky to play on a team that has the means to pay us competitive salaries. We'll never make as much as the men's team, but our wages are above the minimum wage, and we get benefits year-round even though our tournament is only six months long. Most of the teams in the women's Colombian soccer league pay very little and don't provide benefits at all. Players have to cover their health insurance and transportation expenses. Why do women still play, you wonder? Because we breathe soccer, it's our passion, and we feel we are paving the road for future generations. I have hope it won't always be this way. I have faith that one day, we'll be able to negotiate equal pay, just like the United States team managed to do. They proved time and time again that their women's team is superior to their men's team and truly deserves equal pay. I hope I'm still alive to see the day this happens in Latin America, too.

I'm able to shake the thoughts from my head as Lina, the mayor of party town, amuses me with her antics. That's her nickname on the team, too: The Mayor.

"Alright, I'll drive," I say as I motion for her to follow me.

"Wait, aren't you going to drink? Everyone is taking Ubers," she says as she points her thumb to our teammates.

"Nah, I have a test tomorrow night and need to have a clear head." She rolls her eyes at me but doesn't say anything. She knows it's a moot point. I'm one of the few players who juggles school while playing on the team. I'm also one of the youngest players. Everyone else is either over the age of twenty-six or has other jobs to help pay their bills. Even though we have better wages than most, it's still not enough to cover everything—especially when you're the head of the house. I'm just a lucky bitch; my family fully supports me, so I'm able to focus on my studies and play the best soccer I possibly can.

We make it to El Poblado in record time since it's ten at night on a Wednesday. I'm still shocked we had a packed stadium on a weeknight for a women's match. Things are changing—at least, I hope so.

"Okay, so where are we going?" I ask, looking for all my teammates slowly gathering around us.

"Let's go to Mamasita ," Danna, our goalie, suggests, and everyone nods. It's a fairly new place, but it has easily become a team favorite; they have delicious food and good music, and they love it when the team comes by. I'm hoping at some point, it can become the official team bar, where fans can watch the game, and we can stop by afterward to celebrate. I shake my head at my thoughts; I've watched Ted Lasso one too many times—it's my comfort show. And the bar was Ted and Coach's place, not the team's. But whatever, I'd love this bar to become our place. As soon as we enter, a roar of chants and applause explodes around us. My heart skips a beat at the sight in front of me: the bar is packed, and most people, if not everyone, are sporting our jerseys. Granted, it's the same as the men's team, but beggars can't be choosers—or are decked out in green and white, our team colors. Each player is greeted with a beer, and the bar owner, Dulce, comes rushing our way.

"Congratulations, ladies, what a fucking match you played."

I smile at her compliment, and Maria swiftly answers, "Thank you, I think I speak on behalf of the entire team when I say that we weren't expecting to see this," she says as she points around us. "We just wanted to grab a bite and a beer, but this is amazing."

Dulce side-hugs Maria. "I wasn't expecting this crowd either. Wednesday nights are usually slow, but I guess word got out that the team comes here after the games and all these people decided to come watch the game and wait for you. I can't imagine how this is going to be next Sunday when you guys play the final." I smile at that. I mean, what are the fucking odds that my thoughts are materializing in front of me? Am I in an alternate reality? What comes next? Signing with a bigger team? Ha! If only it were so easy.

"Hello, is this Miss Cattleya Cardona?" a deep voice asks as soon as I hit the answer button on my phone. I usually don't take calls from unknown numbers, but I've been waiting for an important call, and I have a feeling this is it.

"Yes, this is she."

"Oh, hello. This is Augusto Montes, talent manager for the Golden Warriors."

My gasp is loud. Holy shit. This is happening. I'm never going to beat the witch allegations. Everything I've manifested so far has become reality.

"Oh, hi. To what do I owe the pleasure of your call?" I ask so fast that I don't think he understood what I said.

He surprises me when he keeps the conversation flowing. "Well, your agent sent us your stats package, and I must say we are impressed. I wanted to touch base and see if you'd be interested in possibly moving to Buenos Aires and signing with the best and biggest women's soccer team in South America."

I hit mute on the phone and start screaming and fist-pumping the air. This has been my dream since the very first time I kicked a soccer ball! I can't believe it's finally happening. A few seconds later, my mom rushes into my room, her gaze filled with worry.

" Mija , what is it?" she asks, hand on her chest.

Oh, my sweet mami .

"I'll tell you in a second," I reply as I go back to the phone call. "Mr. Montes? I'd love to explore the possibility of joining the Golden Warriors," I say ecstatically, unable to hide my happiness.

"Excellent, do you want to plan this right away?"

As happy as I am, I need to think this through. Even though there's nothing I want more in this world, I know jack shit about contracts. I need Santiago, my manager, to handle this. "Would it be okay if my manager gets in contact with you to handle this?"

The moment my mom realizes what I just said, her eyes grow big and immediately fill with unshed tears. Yeah, mi mami is way too sentimental.

After hanging up with Mr. Montes, I embrace my mom.

" Ay mija , was that what I think it was?" she asks, and my reply comes out in a squeal.

"Yes, Mami , the Golden Warriors want to sign me. I don't know the details yet because I told them to contact Santiago."

My mom squeals in excitement as she hugs me. " Ay mi amor , the news you've been waiting for." My mom's voice breaks, and when I detangle from her embrace to check on her, she flashes a crooked smile my way. " Ay mija , don't pay me any mind. You know I cry for everything, but these are happy tears. I promise."

I chuckle because, yeah, I know my mom. She's a crier. I'm about to text Santiago when I hear my mom gasp. I look at her, expecting what she's going to say next. "This means you're moving to Argentina, right?"

I simply smile and nod at her because I know where she's going with this.

"Oh, my babies will be living in the same country. I need to call your dad. Keep me posted."

I don't tell her anything. I know she's already planning to move to Argentina, even though I haven't even seen the contract nor agreed to it. My sister, Sofi, moved to Argentina four years ago after meeting Franco while visiting her bestie, Dani. They're still living in bliss after all this time. I just hope I find that kind of love someday.

My mind immediately goes to him: Matías. One of Franco's best friends and the man I shared one idyllic night with. I'm still not sure what happened, but after that night, I never saw him again. I hear about him, of course, but we haven't crossed paths ever since. Maybe when I move to Argentina, I'll reach out. I mean, I'm twenty-two now—almost twenty-three—I'm not the girl with eyes full of wonder and innocence anymore.

A text alert brings me out of my thoughts, and when I look at my phone, it's from Santiago.

Santiago

Give me a call when you get a chance. I have VERY good news.

I squeal, happiness bursting out of me in waves. I've worked my ass off for this opportunity, going to school full-time while playing for the women's green team in Medellín. I can't believe it. I'm about to sign with the Golden Warriors.

"Santi? Hola," I say and hear him chuckle.

"Hi, Cata. It didn't take you long to call me. I take it you know what this is about?"

"Yes, of course," I say, too excited, then I pause and continue speaking. "At least I think I know what this is about."

"Mr. Montes called and mentioned he spoke briefly with you. He said they are very eager to have you over in their facilities and see you run some drills. They also sent along a proposed contract which includes salary and a signing bonus."

I squeal in excitement again. I feel like a kid in a candy store, and I just can't help it. Sure, I'll pull myself together and play the professional part when I'm in front of the officials, but I'm soaking it in for now.

"You know money is not my main motivator, even though hearing your excitement makes me giddy. But the real question is, when do they want me in Buenos Aires?"

I hear Santi chuckling on the other end of the line, and I start to get impatient. I want to know everything immediately.

"I mentioned you still have a contract here with the green team, and we need to get the approval for your transfer first from them."

I take a deep breath, frustrated that I have to get permission to sign with my dream team but trying to understand that not everything is up to me. I've done my part, playing the best I could, and now I need Santi to work his magic.

"Yeah, okay. Do you think Mr. Perez will sign my release? I mean, we won the championship, they might want to keep me," I ask, a little hesitant. I don't want Santi to say no.

"Cata, the moment he sees these numbers, there's no way he'll refuse. It's a win-win for everyone involved."

I can't help it; I shout and jump in place. "Okay, great. So when can we meet him? I'm assuming you've kept him in the loop."

Santi scoffs. "Of course, I've kept him in the loop. I'm a professional."

"I know. I'm sorry, I'm just so excited," I say as I squeal again.

Santi chuckles, and we end the call with his promise to set up the meeting with Mr. Perez for sometime this evening or tomorrow at the latest.

I'll talk to Papi as soon as he's back from work, but right now, I need my sis.

Cata

Sofiiiii, you there?

Not even a second passes before I get a reply.

Sofi

Took you long enough! Mom and I were on the phone wondering when you were going to TELL ME!!!!

Cata

JAJAJA I love you. I was on the phone with Santi, my manager. I'm meeting Mr. Perez tonight or tomorrow and then I'm flying to Buenos Aires!!!!

Sofi

Holy shit! This is really happening! We'll be living close by. I can't take it. I'm so fucking happy, jueputa ! (son of a bitch!)

Sofi

Can I tell everyone? I'm so proud! My sister is getting signed by the GOLDEN FUCKING WARRIORS!!!! *party emoji* *cry emoji*

I bark out a laugh as I let myself fall onto my bed. My sister is by far my biggest cheerleader. Just like I am hers, although her husband, Franco, would argue he is. And maybe he is, just like I thought his dark-haired friend could be mine. The man who haunts my dreams, the man I crave. Ugh. Why do I still have to lust over Matías? If only he'd speak to me, sigh.

Sofi texts me again, effectively pulling me out of my thoughts.

Sofi

Pleaseeeee *pleading eyes emoji*

Cata

Not yet, I haven't signed anything. I haven't gotten through tests and whatnot. Plus, besides you and Franco and Dani, who's really going to care ?

I told Sofi everything that happened that night. She and Isabella—Luca's sister and also my best friend—are the only ones who know.

Sofi

You know they all love you. Luca and Karina would be so happy for you. Marco and Dani, too. Matías even would be happy for you.

Cata

They can all catch the news when the media gets wind of it. As much as I like them, they are your friends, not mine.

Sofi

Cattleya Milena… why don't you call him? I haven't seen him with anyone ever since I moved to Argentina. FOUR YEARS. Maybe he's had ONS, but nothing serious. He has never brought a mina to any of our get-togethers. And you know those are often.

Damn, she used my full name. The real one at that; we always love changing each other's names when we're giving each other shit.

Cata

Call him for what? He couldn't leave Playa Blanca fast enough after your wedding without even saying goodbye. If in four years he hasn't reached out, it's because sleeping with me meant nothing to him. And I might be a happy-go-lucky kinda girl, but I'm not one to beg a man. Fuck no.

Sofi

JAJAJAJA. Just know that Matías has always been quiet, taciturn even. Maybe he's scared shitless about reaching out to THE Cata Cardona, soccer player and bombshell.

Cata

Yeah, and Franco's little sister-in-law. Nah, Sofi. That ship sailed long ago. It's simple: Matías and I aren't meant to be. And that's OK.

Sofi

You sure? Because from where I'm standing, you seem to be a little hung on that man's orbit.

Cata

JAJAJAJA do you have to be so cheesy? Yuk, you're such a wifey.

Sofi

Guilty! But seriously, sis. He lives in Buenos Aires now, you'll be living in the same city.

Cata

Yup, a city of fifteen million people. My chances of seeing him while grocery shopping are slim to none. And even if I see him, I can just say hi and keep going.

Sofi

Yeah, yeah, ok. Do you want to live in Delulu land? Be my guest. I'll always be here for you. #teamcattleyaforeva

I roll my eyes at my sister's text. The only person who calls me by my name without making me flinch is him . My sister is so in love and thinks we all are going to end up with the same fairy-tale she and Franco have. I mean, I love it for her. But Matías ruined me for every other male on Earth. I just don't feel anything remotely similar to what I felt with him when I go out with a guy. And it's not only physical–I'm talking about the way we chatted for hours on end. He wasn't quiet, not with me. That's why I don't get why he just shut down and left without even saying goodbye. Maybe it was just not the same for him, and he didn't know how to say it, so he just left? Ugh, why do men have to be so frustrating?

Cata

Love you, sis, I'll keep you posted.

Sofi

Love you too. So fucking proud of you!

Not even Matías "tattooed hunk" Moreno will steal my thunder. Golden Warriors, here I come.