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Kevin's walk to Pep's office that day was nothing short of painful. Every step felt like an eternity, his heart pounding in his chest, as if it was trying to escape the doom he knew waited for him behind that closed door.
As he made his way down the hallway, Kevin's footsteps seemed loud and echoey. The sound was a constant reminder of the gravity of the situation, making his anxiety grow with each passing second. His palms were sweaty, and he wiped them on his pants, but the overwhelming sweat ad formed on his forehead as well, proving he couldn’t hide anything
The lights overhead buzzed ominously, casting an unwelcoming glow on the hallway. Each step felt like a burden, as if he was carrying the weight of the team's expectations on his shoulders. He couldn't help but replay his recent subpar performances in his mind, knowing that they had caught the keen eye of his coach. The fear of facing Guardiola's disappointment gnawed at him, making his stomach churn with a sickening mix of dread and regret.
Kevin had never been one to shy away from challenges on the football field. As one of the most talented midfielders in the world, he had faced some of the toughest opponents, handled high-pressure situations, and come out on top more often than not. But there was one situation that sent shivers down his spine and made his heart race faster than any matchday ever could - the thought of having to go to Pep Guardiola's office for a one-on-one talk. It wasn't that Kevin was afraid of his coach. Pep was a football genius, a master tactician, and a brilliant motivator. But he was also known for his intense, detail-oriented approach to the game. And less known for his way with words. Yet that’s what Kevin dreaded most.
As he finally reached the door, he hesitated for a moment, his hand trembling as he raised it to knock. He forced himself to relax, taking in a deep breath..
Knock knock..
When Guardiola's voice called for him to enter, Kevin felt a lump form in his throat. He pushed the door open, and the room seemed to engulf him with its tension. Guardiola's intense gaze bore into him, making him feel exposed.
"Kevin" Pep spoke, his voice almost bored, “Take a seat”
Unfortunately Kevin knew that it didn’t mean anything besides what he hated most.
"You're a crucial part of this team, Kevin. We need you at your best. The lack of consistency in your recent performances is a concern."
Kevin listened, Pep’s words slipping into his ears so easily and getting into his brain even easier. He nodded, just a slight bob of the head. He knew words didn’t matter in these situations. He knew that no matter what he said Pep would continue like he always did. That never stopped his body from reacting the way it did though, of course it didn’t.”
“Do you not want to win, Kevin? Do you not want to make me proud?”
Kevin, again, did not even attempt to open his lips. He didn't dare speak.
“Does anybody care about you? Hm, Kevin?"
Kevin couldn’t help it, he inhaled sharply. He knew he messed up the second he saw in Pep’s eyes that he almost licked up the reaction. It was like a predator staring at its prey, looking for any sign of weakness so it could strike.
"They don’t, do they? Only I do. And all I ask of you is to play the way I want you too.”
The two still stared at each other, Kevin forcing himself to not look away from the eyes that seemed to know his every move, every reaction, everything. His heart beat in his chest and the lump in his throat still hadn’t evaporated. He knew he was scared but he hoped that it didn't show.
But given how Pep was it was unlikely he didn’t already know.
“All I ask is that you listen to me. I wouldn’t let anything happen to you. You know I wouldn’t.”
How could such sweet words sound so cold and fake coming out of the man’s mouth?
The worst part was that it relaxed Kevin. It made him feel safe. Made him feel like the man cared.
The worser part was that that scared Kevin even more.
Because how could someone have this much control? This much power in just words?
“Please be here before everyone else tomorrow. You’re dismissed.”
Exiting Guardiola's office, Kevin felt like a wounded animal, emotionally battered and bruised. The whump of his heart echoed in his ears, the aftershock of his fear leaving him feeling hollow and drained.
And as he walked away Kevin couldn’t help but ask himself why he put up with this.
Even though he knew the answer why.