Chapter 185: Rest and Prepare
November 21st, 2010
The morning light came through the windows, soft and warm.
For the first time in weeks, there was no alarm, no early meetings, and no cold runs outside.
Just a peaceful morning.
Thiago woke up slowly, his body heavy with the kind of tired that comes after something important.
He lay there quietly, enjoying the calm morning.
Just a warm feeling of happiness and sore legs that made him smile.
His phone buzzed.
A message from Lucas, his friend in Brazil: "I saw the highlights. You played so well!"
Thiago smiled and replied: "Thanks, man. It still doesn't feel real."
He thought about the night before—the win, the call with his mom, the cheering fans.
It all still felt fresh and real.
For the first time, he felt like he was meant to be here like he wasn't just part of the team, but part of the game.
And he was enjoying every single moment of it.
Across town, Max Simons was out for a morning walk.
