บท 126: Return

The evening was a dream-like blur as Izan stepped into the grand lobby of the Hotel des Invalides, the opulence of the Ballon d'Or ceremony still coursing through his veins.

The shimmering chandeliers reflected the excitement in his eyes, and beside him, Miranda matched his steps with the elegance that had captivated the photographers on the red carpet.

Clutched in his hand was a small silver token—a commemorative memento given to attendees. It was a tangible reminder of the night he met some of football's brightest stars.

At the lobby, Izan had met Jamal Musiala with the latter taking the initiative to start a conversation with him.

Musiala had been nothing like Izan expected. The German midfielder was relaxed and approachable, worlds apart from the distant aura many top players carried.

Their conversation backstage after the ceremony had been brief but impactful. Musiala had smiled warmly, extending a handshake.