Adriano returned to Manchester on a brisk Thursday afternoon, the sort of day where the sky never decided whether it wanted to rain or stay dry. His parents' visit had been brief but grounding, a chance to reset after the intensity of the Euro qualifiers.
Now, back in his city, the routine of club life was already waiting for him—along with Kate, who had texted him three reminders about their upcoming tabloid photoshoot.
She was waiting at his flat when he arrived, curled up on the sofa with her laptop open and a mug of tea balanced on the armrest. She looked up the moment the door clicked shut.
"About time," she said, though her grin betrayed her words. "Do you know how many outfit options I've gone through already?"
Adriano dropped his duffel bag with a soft thud. "Judging by the pile of clothes I saw in the hallway, at least twenty."
"Twenty-four," Kate corrected. "Don't downplay the effort."
He laughed, crossing the room and leaning down to kiss her. "I missed you."
"Mm, you'd better," she teased, tugging at the collar of his jacket. "Now tell me—are you more nervous about this photoshoot or about facing City's back four in training tomorrow?"
"Training, obviously. This? This is just smiling next to a pretty girl. That's easy."
Kate rolled her eyes. "Flattery won't save you if they put you in some ridiculous outfit."
Adriano plopped down beside her and stretched his legs out. "So, what's the theme again? Cozy autumn? Or do they want us looking like we just walked off a yacht in Monaco?"
"Both," she sighed, flipping her laptop around to show him the briefing email. "First half is 'casual romance'—sweaters, scarves, all that. Second half is 'evening glamour.' Translation: me in something sleek, you in something that looks like you don't even own sweatpants."
"Ruthless," Adriano muttered. "They really don't know me at all."
Kate nudged him with her elbow. "They'll know you once they see how much you complain about being in fitted trousers."
The next morning, the studio car pulled up outside his building. Adriano stepped out wearing his usual casual gear, hood up against the chill, while Kate emerged looking effortlessly put together in a trench coat and boots. She always had a knack for turning errands into a runway walk.
Inside the car, Kate checked her reflection in the small mirror on the visor while Adriano leaned back, scrolling through messages.
"You know," she said, adjusting a strand of hair, "this will be the first proper shoot we've done together. Not just a charity gala photo or someone catching us at dinner."
Adriano glanced at her. "Nervous?"
"Not nervous. Curious. They'll want us to look… perfect. The happy couple."
"Good thing we don't have to fake it, then."
She smiled, lowering the mirror. "True. But don't do that fake footballer grin. The one you use for sponsors."
"You mean the one that sells boots?"
"The exact one," Kate said, poking his side. "Save it. Give them the real smile."
The studio was in Manchester's Northern Quarter, tucked into a renovated warehouse with exposed brick walls and wide windows that let in streams of pale light. Inside, assistants buzzed around, arranging props: knitted blankets, coffee mugs, a low wooden bench.
"Adriano? Kate? Brilliant, glad you're here," the photographer greeted them, a wiry man with square glasses and a quick smile. "We'll ease you in with the cozy look. Nothing complicated—just you two being yourselves. Think autumn afternoon, comfort, closeness."
Kate whispered, "See? Cozy sweaters. I told you."
"Yeah, yeah," Adriano muttered, but he was already being handed a cream-colored jumper by the stylist.
Kate slipped into a burgundy knit that matched her lipstick. They looked like the cover of a holiday card, which made Adriano laugh when he caught their reflection in the mirror.
"Alright, let's try something simple," the photographer said once they were on set. "Kate, sit on the bench. Adriano, stand behind her, hands on her shoulders. Relaxed, easy."
Adriano obeyed, placing his hands gently as Kate leaned back slightly against him.
"Good. Now look at each other, not the camera."
Kate tilted her head up at him with a playful smile. "You're standing too stiff. Relax, or you'll look like my bodyguard."
"I am your bodyguard," Adriano teased, softening his posture. "I'll fight off any tabloid trying to get too close."
The photographer chuckled. "Yes, perfect. Hold that—Kate, laugh a little. Adriano, look at her like you're in on the joke."
Kate let out a genuine laugh, and Adriano's grin followed naturally. The camera clicked rapidly.
"Brilliant, brilliant! Now, Kate, hold his hand. Adriano, lean closer, like you're whispering something just for her."
Adriano bent down, lips near her ear. "We should've asked for soup as a prop. It would've been authentic."
Kate stifled a laugh, covering it with her hand, which only made the shot look even more natural.
The crew adjusted lights, swapped mugs in and out, draped a blanket over their shoulders for one set. Adriano found himself actually enjoying it—mostly because Kate made the whole thing feel like play.
At one point, the photographer asked them to sit cross-legged on the floor with the blanket over their laps, facing each other.
"This feels like a sleepover picture," Kate whispered.
"Good thing we didn't wear pajamas," Adriano replied.
She nudged his knee with hers, and again the laugh that followed turned into the perfect captured moment.
After a quick break for touch-ups, the second half of the shoot began. The cozy sweaters were swapped out for sleek eveningwear. Adriano reluctantly traded his jeans for tailored black trousers and a fitted navy blazer, while Kate emerged in a satin emerald dress that drew every pair of eyes in the room.
"You're staring," she said softly as she adjusted her earrings.
"I'm supposed to. They want romance, don't they?" Adriano replied.
On set, the vibe shifted. The lights were dimmer, sharper. A tall stool was placed in the middle, where Kate sat gracefully while Adriano stood behind her, one hand at her waist.
"Think elegant, think timeless," the photographer directed. "Not just a couple, but a partnership."
Kate tilted her head back slightly, resting it against Adriano's shoulder. He looked down at her, expression softer now.
"Don't move," the photographer urged, snapping away. "That's it. That's the one."
Later, they were asked to walk together, hand in hand, across the studio floor as if they were arriving at an event. Adriano joked quietly, "Do I need to wave at imaginary fans?"
Kate squeezed his hand. "Behave. Just walk."
The shots kept coming—her hand on his chest, his arm wrapped around her waist, the two of them caught mid-laugh at something only they knew. Even a photo with her kissing his cheek while leaning on his body.
By the end, when the photographer finally called it a wrap, Adriano realized he hadn't once felt awkward.
Kate leaned against him as the crew packed up. "See? You survived."
"Barely," he said with mock exhaustion. "But I'll admit—it was actually fun. Mostly because of you."
She smiled, linking her arm through his as they headed toward the dressing room. "Well, good. Because now the whole country gets to see us like this."
Adriano chuckled. "Let's hope they believe it."
"Why wouldn't they?" she said, glancing at him. "It's the easiest thing in the world—we weren't acting."
*****
Adriano was stretched out on the sofa, one arm draped over his eyes, when his phone buzzed against his chest. He groaned, blindly fumbling for it.
"Hello?" His voice was heavy with fatigue, though he already knew it wasn't going to be a manager or physio—those people never called at this hour.
On the other end came a familiar voice, bright and full of cheer.
"Resting, are we? Superstar life too much for you already?"
Adriano shot up immediately, grinning. "Henry? Mate, I thought you were off in some remote forest filming another monster hunt."
"Filming wrapped last week," Henry Cavill chuckled. "I thought I'd take some time before the next project. And Sophia had the brilliant idea that we should finally catch you in action. So… we're coming to your next game."
Adriano blinked. "Wait—you're serious?"
"As serious as Superman flying," Henry said. "League Cup semifinal, right? Against United? We'll be in the stands, cheering. Unless you fancy getting me a spot on the bench."
Adriano laughed. "You'd have to fight me for my kit first. But honestly—that's amazing. It's going to be a huge one. Can't promise I'll score, but I can promise the atmosphere will be insane."
Kate, who had been scrolling through her tablet at the other end of the sofa, perked up. "Henry and Sophia?" she mouthed silently. Adriano nodded, covering the phone's mic. Her eyes widened in delight.
"Kate's here, she looks way too excited," Adriano said into the phone.
"Good," Henry replied. "Sophia can't wait to see her. They'll probably spend the entire time gossiping while we get on with the important business."
"Gaming?" Adriano guessed.
"Exactly. We've got a rematch to settle."
After a few more minutes of easy back-and-forth, Adriano hung up. He tossed the phone onto the sofa cushion, still smiling.
"They're coming!" he announced.
Kate clapped her hands together, almost bouncing in her seat. "Oh, I love it. We're going to have so much fun—shopping, maybe a spa day, definitely catching up over drinks." She was already lost in thought, mapping out imaginary schedules.
Adriano chuckled, leaning back again. "You two can do all that. Meanwhile, me and Henry will lock ourselves in the gaming room and settle this like civilized men."
Kate whipped her head toward him, pretending to pout. "So you're just going to abandon us? While I'm planning the perfect weekend?"
"You make it sound like we're eloping," Adriano teased. "Relax, you'll have your girl time. And I'll get my guy time. Balance, Kate. Balance."
She crossed her arms. "Fine. But don't be surprised if Sophia and I crash your gaming session just to mess with you."
"That would be cheating."
"That would be entertainment."
The following day, training was light for Adriano. He wasn't starting against Watford in the league, so the focus was on recovery and tactical drills. He returned home earlier than usual, finding Kate sprawled on the floor with her laptop open, a notepad beside her filled with doodles and half-written plans.
"What's this?" he asked, dropping his bag.
"It's called organization," Kate said, holding up the notepad. "Spa options, restaurants, maybe a bit of sightseeing. Sophia hasn't been in Manchester for ages, so we need to make it worthwhile."
Adriano scanned the page. "You've got four activities in one day here. You'll collapse before dinner."
"That's why we'll go to the spa first," she replied smartly.
He flopped down next to her, peering over her shoulder at the laptop. "You really thought this through, huh?"
"Of course. I want everything perfect. Besides, it's not every day you have your best friend and Superman crashing a football match."
Adriano smirked. "Don't get too used to it. Henry's going to drag me into a twelve-hour gaming session. He's been itching for a rematch since the last time."
Kate gave him a sideways glance. "And what game is worth ditching me for?"
"Call of Duty. Or maybe FIFA, just to remind him who the professional is."
Kate snorted. "Oh, that's fair. Beat him at FIFA, crush his spirit before the match."
"Exactly. It's all about mental advantage."
Later that evening, as they sat down to dinner, Kate was still bubbling with energy.
"So, after the game, do you think they'll want to come back here? We could host something casual. Drinks, food, nothing fancy."
"Sure," Adriano said between bites. "As long as Henry doesn't eat everything before I get a chance."
"Please, you eat like three people anyway," Kate teased. "We'll just make extra."
He pointed his fork at her. "See? You do love me. You're already planning my second servings."
Kate rolled her eyes but smiled. "Don't push it."
The day before the match, Adriano was officially given the rest he'd been promised. Watford would be handled without him, and he was grateful for the break. He spent the afternoon lounging with Kate, who was determined to talk through every detail of the weekend again.
"I still think we should take Sophia to that little café you showed me near Deansgate," she said, sitting cross-legged on the sofa. "She'd love it."
"Done," Adriano said, flipping through the channels absently.
"And maybe we can all go for dinner somewhere nicer after? Unless you and Henry are too busy saving the world on PlayStation."
"Gaming is saving the world, Kate. Don't disrespect the craft."
She laughed, tossing a cushion at him. "You're ridiculous."
"I'm honest," he countered, catching the cushion easily.
Their back-and-forth carried late into the evening, playful and light. For Adriano, the anticipation of the semifinal was strong, but so was the sense of comfort—Henry and Sophia coming made it feel less like just another high-pressure fixture and more like an event shared with friends.
On the day before matchday, the house was buzzing. Kate had laid out her outfit carefully, while Adriano packed his match bag with methodical precision.
"You nervous?" Kate asked, zipping up her boots.
"Not nervous," Adriano said, tightening his laces. "Focused. It's United. It'll be a battle. But I'll have you in the stands, and Henry shouting something embarrassing probably."
Kate grinned. "Sophia and I will keep it classy. I can't promise Henry won't scream your name like a fangirl though."
Adriano chuckled. "If he does, I'm never letting him forget it."
She crossed the room, wrapping her arms loosely around his neck. "Just play your game. Win or lose, we'll be proud."
He pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Win. That's the only option."
Kate smiled, brushing her thumb across his jaw. "Then go out there and show them ."
*****
Manchester was unusually bright the day Henry and Sophia flew in, though the chill of January was still sharp enough to make people hurry from taxis into warm buildings.
Adriano and Kate were waiting outside the arrivals gate at the airport, disguised just enough to avoid drawing too much attention. Adriano wore a cap and a bomber jacket, Kate had a scarf pulled up high, though her eyes still shone with excitement.
"There they are," Kate said, spotting the tall figure of Henry towering over most of the crowd. Sophia walked beside him, chic in a camel coat, her hair perfectly in place despite the flight.
Henry noticed Adriano first, lifting one hand in greeting before pulling him into a strong hug. "Brother! Look at you, all rested up and ready to destroy United."
"Or at least try," Adriano said with a grin. "It's good to see you, man."
While the two men exchanged their usual back-slapping embrace, Kate had already launched herself at Sophia. "You look amazing! How is it you never look tired after a flight?"
Sophia laughed, hugging her back tightly. "It's all smoke and mirrors, trust me. I've been living off airplane coffee. But you—look at you! You're glowing."
"That's what happens when you're dating a footballer who brings stress home," Kate teased, glancing at Adriano.
"Oi," Adriano said, but Henry clapped him on the back.
"Don't worry, mate. I get the same treatment. Sophia blames me for everything too."
Sophia arched an eyebrow at Henry. "Usually because you deserve it."
The four of them broke into laughter, and for a moment the busy terminal faded into the background.
On the drive back into the city, Kate and Sophia sat in the backseat together, already chatting as if no time had passed at all. Adriano drove while Henry occupied the passenger seat, both of them only half-listening as the women's conversation flowed effortlessly from travel to work to mutual friends.
"See this?" Adriano muttered to Henry, keeping his eyes on the road. "We don't even exist anymore."
Henry smirked. "It's for the best. Gives us time to plan tonight's gaming session. You still up for it?"
"Of course. But fair warning—I've been practicing."
"Practicing?" Henry raised an eyebrow. "So this is war, then."
"Always was," Adriano said, and the two men shook on it while the chatter from the backseat rose another octave.
"Boys," Sophia suddenly called forward, "don't think we don't hear you. No disappearing for hours while we're in the same house."
Kate grinned. "Exactly. You're both on a short leash."
Henry and Adriano exchanged a look of mock despair, but neither argued.
At the apartment, the energy only grew warmer. Bags were dropped, coats hung, and within minutes the living room was filled with laughter. Kate had laid out snacks, insisting Sophia try the local bakery's pastries she'd picked up earlier.
"This is dangerous," Sophia said with her mouth full. "If I lived here, I'd be twice my size in a week."
"You'd still look amazing," Kate insisted. "Don't even start."
Across the room, Adriano and Henry had already gravitated toward the console.
"You've got the new setup," Henry said, admiring the sleek gaming rig. "Mate, you weren't kidding about taking this seriously."
Adriano smirked. "I don't play around when it comes to beating you."
Kate rolled her eyes from the sofa. "See? They're hopeless."
Sophia leaned closer to her. "We could unplug it, you know. Force them to socialize."
"They'd just find another way," Kate replied. "Like arguing about who'd win in a sword fight."
"Me, obviously," Henry called over his shoulder.
"Not in a football stadium," Adriano shot back.
The whole room dissolved into laughter again.
Later that evening, the four of them sat down to a proper dinner Kate had arranged. The conversation flowed easily, switching between football, film sets, travel stories, and ridiculous anecdotes.
"So tell me," Sophia said, resting her chin on her hand, "are you two ever going to do something low-key, or is it always front-page magazine shoots?"
Kate groaned. "Don't remind me. The photoshoot was exhausting."
Adriano looked up from his plate. "Exhausting? You were the one enjoying yourself. I was just a prop."
"You were the one making jokes the whole time!" Kate said, pointing at him. "I nearly ruined a shot because I couldn't stop laughing."
Henry raised a glass. "Well, whatever you did, it worked. The pictures came out great. You looked natural."
Sophia nodded. "It's nice, honestly. People love seeing you both happy. It feels real."
Adriano and Kate exchanged a glance, and Kate gave him a small smile before turning back. "That's kind of the point, isn't it? We weren't faking anything."
Sophia squeezed her hand. "Exactly."
Henry leaned back in his chair. "And tomorrow, we get to see him prove why he's the man of the hour. Semi-final against United—it doesn't get bigger than that."
Adriano tried to downplay it with a shrug. "It's just another game."
Kate shook her head. "Don't even pretend. You've been restless all week."
Henry chuckled. "He's restless because he knows we'll be watching. Pressure, my friend. All eyes on you."
Adriano pointed his fork at him. "If I mess up, I'm blaming you."
"That's fair," Henry said, grinning.
As the night wore on, Kate and Sophia retreated to the balcony with blankets and wine, their laughter spilling back into the apartment. Adriano and Henry stayed inside, controllers in hand, already deep into their gaming session.
From the balcony, Sophia called out, "How's it going in there?"
"We're tied," Adriano shouted back. "For now."
Henry corrected him immediately. "I'm winning, actually. He's just in denial."
Kate cupped her hands around her mouth. "Don't let him distract you, Henry. He always cheats somehow."
"I heard that!" Adriano yelled, though his grin gave him away.
Kate leaned back in her chair, turning to Sophia. "See? This is my life now. Football and gaming. Sometimes both at once."
Sophia laughed. "Could be worse. At least you know where he is."
Kate smiled softly, sipping her wine. "That's true. And honestly… it works. He makes it easy."
Sophia glanced at her, eyes warm. "You're good together. It shows."
Inside, another loud cheer erupted as Henry snatched victory in their game. Adriano groaned dramatically while Henry leapt to his feet in triumph.
Kate shook her head, amused. "Children. Absolute children."
Sophia laughed, raising her glass. "And we love them anyway."
The night wound down slowly, the energy mellowing as everyone grew tired. Plans were made loosely for the next day—Sophia and Kate would wander the city, maybe do that spa day after all, while Henry and Adriano promised a rematch if time allowed.
As they all headed to bed, Kate leaned close to Adriano. "You're happy, aren't you?"
He smiled, brushing a hand over her arm. "Yeah. It feels good having them here. Like… everything fits."
Kate kissed his cheek. "Good. Tomorrow, just play your game. We'll be right there."
And with that reassurance, they turned in for the night, the city outside quieting as the anticipation for the semifinal grew closer.