The match had been on television one evening while they were at home, and ever since then, Messi had quietly kept following him. Eintracht Frankfurt matches. Germany matches. Highlights. Clips online. Whenever Lukas played, somehow Messi always ended up watching.
And every time—
he smiled.
Not because Lukas played exactly like him.
But because there were moments.
Certain touches.
Certain movements with the ball.
Certain instincts.
Things that reminded him of the joy football used to give him when he was younger.
Antonella noticed it every single time.
Even their kids had started noticing it too.
Whenever Lukas played and something ridiculous happened on screen, Messi would lean forward slightly without even realizing it.
Watching closely.
Studying.
Enjoying it.
Antonella smiled softly to herself.
"It's nice," she said quietly, "seeing that the future of football is safe."
Messi looked back out the window toward the Miami lights passing outside.
Then he nodded once.
