From Reject to Legend

The days following Málaga's historic victory over Atlético Madrid were a whirlwind of emotions for Adriano . On the pitch, he was the undisputed star of La Liga, a young prodigy who had taken Spanish football by storm. Off the pitch, his relationship with Hailee Steinfeld had blossomed into something deeper, more intimate, and more meaningful.

With Hailee's filming schedule in Málaga coming to an end, the couple decided to make the most of their remaining time together. Hailee moved into Adriano's modest but cozy apartment, and for a few blissful days, they lived like newlyweds, savoring every moment of passion .

Adriano's apartment, though not extravagant, was warm and inviting. It was a reflection of his personality—simple, grounded, and filled with little touches that made it feel like home. Hailee quickly made herself comfortable, her presence adding a new layer of warmth to the space.

They spent their days exploring Málaga, hand in hand, away from the prying eyes of the media. They visited the Alcazaba, strolled through the narrow streets of the old town, and enjoyed quiet dinners at local restaurants. But it was the nights that were truly special and passionate as this was the first relationship for both of them. curled up on the couch, sharing stories, dreams, and laughter, or cooking together in the small kitchen or making love, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment.

One evening, as they sat on the balcony overlooking the city, Hailee turned to Adriano with a soft smile. "I could get used to this," she said, her voice filled with contentment.

Adriano smiled back, his heart swelling with emotion. "Me too. But you'll have to come back regularly."

Hailee nodded, her expression turning serious. "I will. I promise."

One of the most significant moments during Hailee's stay was when Adriano decided to introduce her to his parents. He had always been close to his family, and he wanted them to meet the woman who had captured his heart for the first time .

They sat together on the couch, Adriano holding his phone as he initiated a video call while Hailee sat on his lap hugging his neck. His parents' faces appeared on the screen, their expressions lighting up when they saw their son.

"Mom , Dad" Adriano began, his voice warm and proud, "I want you to meet someone very special. This is Hailee, my girlfriend."

Hailee waved shyly, her smile radiant. "Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Riveiro. It's so nice to meet you. Adriano has been telling me all about how grateful he is for your support."

Adriano's mother, Rosa, beamed. "Oh, Hailee, it's wonderful to meet you! Adriano has told us so much about you. You are really pretty and sweet."

His father, Julio, nodded in agreement. "Yes, yes. It's good to finally put a face to the name. I hope he's treated you well? "

Hailee smiled widely. " Of course Mr. Riveiro. He's been a perfect gentleman. I can't ask for a better boyfriend." Adriano smiled and kissed her cheek, illiciting a giggle from her .

The conversation flowed easily, with Adriano's parents asking Hailee about her life, her career, and her time in Málaga. Hailee, in turn, was charmed by their warmth and kindness. She could see where Adriano got his humility and grounded nature. She wanted to take him to meet her parents as well.

As the call progressed, Adriano decided to share some news with his parents. "Mom, Dad, I've sent my signing bonus and first salary to your account. I want you to use it to pay off the debts and make life easier for you."

Julia's eyes filled with tears, and Julio shook his head in protest. "Adriano, you don't have to do that. We already have more than enough to take care of ourselves. You should save some money for yourself, you got nobody else to take care of you there , so might need it later."

Adriano smiled, his voice firm but gentle. "I want to do it. You've sacrificed so much for me. This is my way of saying thank you."

Hailee watched the exchange with a soft smile, her admiration for Adriano growing even more. She had always known he was special, but seeing how much he cared for his family only deepened her feelings for him.

The day of Hailee's departure arrived too soon. Adriano drove her to the airport, the atmosphere in the car a mix of sadness and gratitude for the time they had shared.

As they stood in the terminal, Hailee turned to Adriano, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I'm going to miss you so much," she said, her voice trembling a little .

Adriano pulled her into a tight embrace, his heart aching at the thought of being apart. "I'll miss you too. But we'll make it work. I promise."

Hailee nodded, burying her face in his chest. "I'll call you every day. And I'll come back to visit you as soon as I can."

Adriano tilted her chin up, his gaze filled with love and determination. "I'll be waiting. And if I get time during Winter break, I'll come to visit you."

Ignoring the paparazzi snapping photos in the background, Adriano kissed her passionately, pouring all his emotions into the moment. She hugged his neck returned every bit of the feelings he poured. When they finally pulled apart, Hailee gave him one last smile before turning and walking toward the gate.

Adriano watched her until she disappeared from sight, his heart heavy but hopeful. He knew their journey was just beginning, and he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

The day after Hailee's departure, Adriano was back at the Ciudad de Málaga training complex, fully focused on the upcoming match. The team was riding high after their victory over Atlético Madrid, but Pellegrini was quick to remind them not to get complacent.

"We've had a great start to the season, but we can't afford to lose focus," Pellegrini said during the pre-match briefing. "Every game is a new challenge, and we need to approach it with the same intensity and determination."

Adriano nodded, his mind already on the next opponent. He knew that his performances on the pitch were crucial to Málaga's success, and he was determined to keep delivering.

Málaga's next match was against Real Sociedad, a team known for their attacking flair and technical prowess. The game was held at La Rosaleda, and the atmosphere was electric, with fans filling the stands and chanting Adriano's name.

From the first whistle, Málaga dominated. Adriano was at the heart of everything, his vision and passing creating chances for his teammates. In the 18th minute, he delivered a pinpoint cross to Joaquín, who headed it into the net to give Málaga the lead.

1-0.

The crowd erupted in cheers, and Adriano ran to the sidelines, pointing to the sky in a silent tribute to Hailee.

Real Sociedad tried to fight back, but Málaga's defense held firm. In the 67th minute, Adriano sealed the victory with a stunning free-kick from 25 yards out. The ball curled over the wall and into the top corner, leaving the keeper with no chance.

2-0.

The final whistle blew, and Málaga's players celebrated another victory. Adriano was once again the hero, his two-goal contribution proving decisive.

After the match, Adriano joined Pellegrini for the post-match press conference. The room was packed with journalists, all eager to hear from the young star.

"Adriano, another incredible performance," one reporter began. "How do you manage to stay so consistent?"

Adriano smiled. "It's all about hard work and focus. I have an amazing team behind me, and we're all pushing each other to be better every day."

Pellegrini nodded in agreement. "Adriano is a special player, but what makes him truly exceptional is his humility and work ethic. He's always looking to improve, and that's why he's having such a great season."

The questions continued, but Adriano handled them with ease. He was no longer the shy, uncertain trialist. He was a superstar in the making , and he was ready to shine.

As the press conference ended, Adriano made his way to the team bus, his mind already on the next challenge. But as he sat in his seat, his thoughts drifted to Hailee. He pulled out his phone and sent her a quick message.

Adriano: Another win today. How's your day going dear? Miss you.

A few moments later, his phone buzzed with a reply.

Hailee:I'm so proud of you. I just finished recording a song and came home. Can't wait to see you again babe!

Adriano smiled, his heart swelling with emotion. He had everything he had ever dreamed of—success on the pitch, a team that believed in him, and a lover that cared deeply for him .