Chapter Text
The hot days are nothing new this summer. The training, the feeling of sweat, the music in the locker room, and the laughter on the field are nothing new. This has become Jamal's daily routine so this is what he is used to.
But today, it is different from all the days in Jamal's life.
This was already confirmed the other day, but today is the official joining of Michael Olise to the club. This is also the first day that the new member will be with them in training.
Jamal saw his coach and other staff talking to Michael on the bench. Phonzy immediately noticed this and approached him.
"Aren't you both from Chelsea?" Phonzy asked.
"Ah yes, but we are not close." said Jamal while still observing Olise from afar. "He always goes home immediately after training."
"Oh, then make him a friend now! Talk to him later in training." said Phonzy, grinning from ear to ear. “Since both of you are wearing long sleeves and pants even though it’s so hot, I bet you’re gonna get along really well.”
Jamal immediately reacted, “The heat is too much, it hurts your skin! Besides, this is only for those who have real taste in fashion.”
Michael started his individual training, while the rest of the team were training together. Under the scorching sun, they continued to practice even though their jersey was clinging onto their skin, full of sweat due to heat.
During the break, they greeted their new teammates one by one. They all happily shook hands with Michael, truly happy for the new member of the team.
When it was Jamal’s turn to talk to Michael, he immediately felt cold. When he looked into Michael’s eyes, they were dark as if they were pulling him in and he couldn’t look away. He shivered a little without realizing it.
Michael was the first to break the silence, “Hey, it's been a while.”
“Y-yeah, it's good to have you on the team.” Jamal replied when he was cut off from whatever trance he was in.
Jamal's day seemed to end on autopilot. He didn't notice the time but he was still thinking about his interaction with Michael earlier. He didn't know why it stayed inside his head even though they had only talked for a moment.
As if his thoughts weren't loud enough, he bumped into Michael who was also getting ready to go home.
He immediately noticed his clothing, all black but very stylish. Even though he was wearing a coat and seemed to be wrapped up even in summer, it only highlighted his features even more. His red locs, long eyelashes, and especially his dark eyes that Jamal was staring at again stood out.
“Going home?” Michael asked when he noticed Jamal staring at him.
There he was again. Jamal suddenly became nervous again and his heart beated faster.
“Yeah. Have you settled on a place here in Munich?” Jamal asked even though he couldn't understand why his heart was beating fast.
“Mhm. Although I still need to get my things delivered.” Michael answers, unaware of what is going on in Jamal's mind right now. "All of my stuff is still in London"
"Well, would you like me to help you move in?" Jamal immediately felt embarrassed as he talked without him realizing it.
Michael showed a little smile, amused how Jamal answered. "Alright, maybe you can give me your number. A help wouldn't hurt."
As they exchanged each other's contacts, Jamal offers, "I can also show you around, if that's okay."
"Thanks. I'll let you know." Michael replies, enjoying the conversation. "I'll go ahead now."
Jamal's heartbeat was loud enough as it echoed through his mind. He can't believe what just happened. Already catching up with his former acquaintance, far from their interactions back when they were still in Chelsea.
Since their paths are crossing again, Jamal feels as if he and Michael are really meant to be teammates. To be friends.