章節 23: On Course For Alkmaar
The next few days, Benjamin continued training tirelessly in the academy grounds, making back and forth trips to his house.
He was slowly getting back in full shape and his left leg had healed completely. This was basically the fittest he had been since the accident and hopefully he would keep on improving in all areas of his gameplay.
During the past weeks, he visited his family at the cemetery a couple of times.
Standing by their tombstones, he'd tell of his past experiences ever since the accident and also the fun memories they had, switching between crying and soft chuckles as he recounted the events.
Talking to them made him feel connected, as though they were still listening, still proud of him.
During this time, Ashley visited frequently, stopping by the academy or his house. She was everything an agent should be; cheerful, outspoken, and had an upbeat personality bringing positive energy.
She always gave him encouragement with a warm smile or a quick joke, making her work seem effortless. Benjamin found himself anticipating her visits because she had an infectious energy.
Then, on the morning of August 15th, Benjamin was lying in bed with his room illuminated by gentle rays of early morning light coming in through his window.
Just as he was pushing himself to get up, his phone buzzed on the bedside table. He reached over, rubbing his eyes as he checked the caller ID, seeing Ashley's name on the screen.
He swiped to answer.
"Good morning, sleepyhead!" Her voice was lively and cheerful as she greeted. "Don't tell me you're still in bed."
Benjamin chuckled, getting up and running a hand through his messy hair. "Just barely. Now I'm awake. What's up?"
"What's up?" she echoed, feigning mock surprise. "I hope you're ready because we're heading to Alkmaar today!"
"Alkmaar?" He rubbed his eyes and said, in an attempt to wake himself from his slumber. He had yet to understand her meaning. "What for?"
"Well, it's nothing major. You just need to go to Alkmaar today to sign your contract! I wanted to make sure you were prepared." She practically smiled as she teased through the phone. "The club has everything set up and just got in touch with me. Later today, I'll stop by to pick you up."
Benjamin felt a surge of excitement, he was suddenly able to touch the reality of his dream—signing a professional contract. "Alright, I'll be ready," he said, attempting to seem composed.
Benjamin sat on the edge of his bed for a while after they hung up, allowing the excitement to subside long enough for him to concentrate. It would be a significant day that might kickstart his professional football career.
To begin his day, he got up, stretched, and headed to the bathroom, where he splashed cold water on his face to completely awaken. He brushed his teeth while standing in front of the mirror, allowing his mind to drift to the day ahead.
He went into the kitchen after brushing his teeth. He opened the refrigerator, reaching for the glass bottle of lemon water he had made the previous evening. As he drank, the coolness of it hit his throat, revitalizing him in a manner that coffee was never able to.
This little ritual had become his morning wake-up call, something that helped to clear his mind, settle his focus and be more prepared for the day ahead.
Setting the glass back down, he completed his morning jog and then did a few yoga poses, to help loosen his muscles. He'd learned not to overdo it in the mornings as his body needed its strength later in the day.
Once his exercises were done, he headed to the shower, letting the warm water ease any lingering stiffness. Once he was done, he dressed up in a more formal outfit than usual, dark slacks, clean white shirt and a simple blazer.
He adjusted the collar in the mirror, taking in the image of himself. He looked like someone with responsibilities, more confident and serious, than he felt. He glanced down at his shoes, shining and spotless.
He'd gone for a polished look, one that would make a strong impression. This was about showing Alkmaar that he wasn't just any young player but someone who took his career seriously.
Satisfied with his appearance, he walked out of his room and headed down the hall toward the sitting room.
Just as he entered, he spotted Ashley waiting by the window, her attention briefly on her phone. She was looking effortlessly put-together as usual, she was wearing a stylish blazer and her hair was tied back nearly, and she exuded confidence that seemed to light up the entire room.
As he entered, she glanced up, a smile spreading across her face as she observed his outfit.
"Not bad, Benjamin," she teased, looking him over with an approving nod. "You clean up well."
He laughed, a little of the tension easing. "Figured I should look the part."
"You do," she replied, slipping her phone into her bag. "Trust me, you look like someone who means business."
Anna, who had just come in from the kitchen, noticed them and entered the room, a warm smile appeared on her face as she took in the sight of the two of them. "Oh, you both look so professional." she said, clasping her hands together. "It's like watching a young executive and his assistant head out to take on the world. And Ashley, always a pleasure to see you."
"Likewise, Anna," Ashley replied with a grin, glancing at Benjamin with a wink. "Well, he is about to take on the world, in a way. He's got a big day today, so I had to make sure he was looking sharp."
Anna chuckled softly, reaching out to pat Benjamin's shoulder. "Well, I'm sure he'll do great. He's got a good head on his shoulders."
Benjamin chuckled, feeling the warmth of Anna's pride in her gaze. She had watched him struggle and push through his difficult times; he knew she wanted him to succeed almost as much as he wanted it for himself.
"Thanks, Anna," he said, smiling.
With a final nod, he followed Ashley out the door and down to her car parked by the curb. He had to admit it looked impressive, a sleek silver vehicle that seemed to suit her image.
She unlocked it with a click, and they both settled in, the hum of the engine broke the silence and soon they were on the road, the city view passing by as they headed toward Alkmaar.
The distance between Haarlem and Alkmaar wasn't that much, approximately 30 kilometers. Depending on traffic, the drive should take approximately thirty minutes.
As they moved forward, the city gradually gave way to the wide sections of the highway, and they fell into a comfortable silence.
Observing the passing landscape, Benjamin's mind drifted. His initial nervousness had subsided and been replaced by confidence.
They soon arrived to the Alkmaar club's offices.
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