Chapter Text
The light coming from the TV screen wasn't enough to light up the room, but it was enough to show Ferran’s pale face.
He was lying on the couch, putting his arm over his eyes as if he was trying to block out the world.
"Ferran, stop this... please"
Eric’s firm voice broke the heavy silence as he turned on the lights, switched off the TV, and dropped the remote control on the table strongly.
"It has been three days and you are living like a dead body, Yes, it is a messed up situation, and yes, all those stupid mixed signals meant something else, but what happened, happened and it’s over, Staying in this dark mood won't change anything"
Ferran sighed, turned his back to him, and spoke in a low, lifeless voice
"Leave me alone"
Eric crossed his arms, looking at his friend who was burying himself in his sadness.
He walked closer, pushed Ferran’s feet off the couch, and sat next to him.
"I want to talk to you face-to-face, not face-to-ass, okay??"
Ferran realized there was no escaping from this talk.
He sat up on the couch and pulled his hoodie over his messy hair.
"I know you are sad, feeling let down, and cheated, But really, you need to move on and overcome what happened, He didn't care and he won't care, because simply, you are in a war that the other side doesn’t even know about"
A few seconds of silence passed.
Eric pulled Ferran’s phone from the table, typed the password he had known forever, tapped a few times, and then grabbed Ferran’s hand and placed the phone in it.
On the other side, confusion covered Ferran’s face as he looked at the phone and found a new app “Safe Space”
"What is this?"
Eric stood up to gather his things, getting ready to leave.
"A dating app, but it’s completely secret, No real photos or real names, Try it, you won't lose anything, Plus, I’ve seen a friend have a really good experience with it before"
Ferran threw the phone away.
"I am not going to join dating apps, this is ridiculous"
"Your loss, Bye"
Eric closed the door behind him, and the heavy silence took over the apartment once again.
Ferran sighed deeply and looked at the phone lying on the other end of the couch.
The screen suddenly lit up, showing a welcoming notification from that strange app.
"Welcome to Safe Space, create your anonymous account now"
"Safe space? Nonsense..."
Ferran muttered sarcastically, but the crowded thoughts in his mind were eating him alive.
He remembered Pedri’s laughs, the signals he thought were special, the close moments, and the looks of admiration that were only in his imagination.
He remembered how everyone clapped for Pedri and his girlfriend while he was trying to swallow his pain.
Without thinking, he pulled the phone toward him.
He had a strong urge to scream, to let out this tiredness to someone who didn't know him.
someone who wouldn't pity him or see him as "Ferran Torres" the broken football player.
He opened the app with hesitant fingers.
* Username: Shark_7
* Age: 26
* Interests: Quiet, Privacy, Fashion, Football.
* Bio: If you are here to play games, don't text me.
He skipped the optional photo step and pressed the "Search for a chat partner" button.
The loading circle spun for seconds that felt like a lifetime, before a few accounts with anonymous names appeared.
He scrolled through them one by one until he found one that almost matched his interests [ Anchor_G ]
He pressed the "Match" button, and a blank gray chat screen appeared.
Ferran hesitated.
What was he supposed to say? "Hi, I’m a famous football player and my close friend broke my heart?" Of course not.
He wiped his forehead nervously and wrote his first spontaneous message
@Shark_7
Hi... is the mood depressing on your side too, or am I the only one suffering tonight?
He didn't expect a quick reply, but the phone vibrated in his hand less than a minute later.
@Anchor_G
Welcome... the mood is quiet here, but it seems there is sadness behind your screen What is the 'Shark' suffering from at this late hour?
Ferran smiled a faint, sarcastic smile at himself.
The other person’s style was calm.
His digital tone carried a comfortable, listening kind of coolness... just like an anchor holding a ship in the middle of rough waves.
It was a perfect match for his name.
Ferran leaned his head on the edge of the couch, and his fingers started typing
@Shark_7
I haven’t left the house in three days I feel completely drained of energy
@Anchor_G
Do you want to talk about the reason? I am here to listen anytime
@Shark_7
I don't know where to start...
I was in love with one of my close friends and thought the feeling was mutual for years, but suddenly he announced his relationship with a girl
I feel so stupid, like I was tricked
@Anchor_G
And why didn't you confess your feelings for years? Maybe he also thought the feelings weren't mutual and felt tricked, so he moved on
Ferran went silent, staring at the words on his phone.
(Maybe he also thought the feelings weren't mutual).
How did he never think of this possibility?
@Shark_7
I was scared of losing him I never thought about this possibility before
@Anchor_G
I went through a similar experience
I had feelings for one of my co-workers, only to find him one day holding hands with a girl,I was very sad at that time, but I got over it, In the end, he didn't know, and I deserve a better relationship
And you too, I know you are extremely sad, but you need to know that you deserve the best
(@Shark_7 reacted with a heart to the message)
@Anchor_G
Can I ask you why you chose this name?
@Shark_7
Thank you :) My grandmother always used to call me 'Shark' and tell me that I act like one, which is funny :) But I felt attached to this nickname because of her
Why did you choose Anchor as your name?
@Anchor_G
Great story I really like names with meanings
My job requires me to be like an anchor too
I am always there for my loved ones to protect them
(@Shark_7 reacted with a heart to the message)
@Shark_7
That’s really cool!
(@Anchor_G reacted with a heart to the message)
@Shark_7
So you are not in a relationship, or here as a way of cheating, right?:)
@Anchor_G
I hate cheating in every way
I heard about this app from a friend, so I decided to try it
Maybe I’ll find a good partner
And by the way, you are the very first person I’m talking to
@Shark_7
Hahaha, I also found out about it through a friend, but by force
And you are also the first person I’m talking to, honestly
Are you sure you're not a robot? :)
@Anchor_G
Then ask me a question that a robot can't answer :)
@Shark_7
I will ignore the fact that you used my emoji ~.~
Barcelona or Real Madrid??
@Anchor_G
Manchester United
Just kidding, of course Barcelona, they are the greatest.
I hope you aren't a fan of the white team
Also, you are the first person I see using these emojis, they are funny
@Shark_7
Eww, impossible for me to be a fan of the white team, that’s madness
My special mark ;)
(Anchor_G reacted with a heart to the message)
@Anchor_G
Hahaha, I’m glad to meet you, Shark
But I have to go to sleep, I have work tomorrow morning :(
Also, you can call me Pablo, I think it’s easier than Anchor
And tell me if you prefer to be called by a certain name
@Shark_7
I’m also glad to meet you, Pablo
Call me whatever you like, I don't mind
@Anchor_G
I have to think then ;) I’ll find a suitable name
Goodnight, and don't think too much
Just sleep and rest, you deserve it
(@Shark_7 reacted with a heart to the message)
@Shark_7
Goodnight, thank you
(Anchor_G reacted with a heart to the message)
Ferran locked his phone and threw it on the couch next to him.
He pulled back his hood and brushed his hair back.
(You deserve the best)
Why did simple words from an anonymous man soothe his heart so much?
He stared at the ceiling for a few minutes.
For the first time in three days, he didn't feel like crying or suffocating.
He stood up, went to his bed, pulled the blanket over his body, and closed his eyes, falling into a deep sleep he hadn't experienced since the night of Pedri's announcement.
The next morning, the first thing Ferran did as soon as he woke up was check his phone.
He opened the app and smiled softly when he found a message from Pablo sent about an hour ago.
@Anchor_G
Good morning, I woke up early and I wish you a happy and light day today :)
Ferran texted back quickly
@Shark_7
Good morning, I wish you a happy day too
I’m heading to work now
He placed the phone on the table, feeling an energy he hadn't felt in a while.
He got up, took a shower, and put on his clothes to get ready for training at the club.
Throughout the drive, Pablo's words kept repeating in his mind
"Maybe he also thought the feelings weren't mutual and moved on"... "In the end, he didn't know and you deserve a better relationship"
These words changed his view of the situation
he no longer felt like a "victim" who was fooled, but rather someone who took a risk in silence and wasn't lucky, and now it was time to move on.
When he arrived at the training ground, the atmosphere was quiet.
He walked into the dressing room to find Eric sitting and tying his football boots.
As soon as Eric spotted Ferran, his eyes widened, and he shouted dramatically
"Oh! Look who is back from the grave ! Is this the ghost of Ferran Torres or is it him in person?"
Ferran smiled despite himself, walked over, and punched Eric’s shoulder lightly.
"Shut up, Eric... I’m fine"
Eric winked and whispered in a low voice
"Looks like my idea worked fast, didn't it?"
Ferran opened his locker to change his clothes and said with fake coldness
"The app is stupid, but the person I talked to was... well, he was a good listener"
At that exact moment, the dressing room door opened and Joan walked in, carrying a water bottle and rubbing his neck tiredly, looking like he had woken up very early.
He greeted them in his usual calm voice
"Good morning, guys"
Everyone replied, including Eric and Ferran.
Joan walked to his locker without any extra interaction, and everyone started heading out to the pitch to begin training.
Eric walked closer to Ferran and whispered excitedly
"I want to know every single detail about this person!"
After hours of exhausting training and many annoying questions from Eric, Ferran finally reached home.
He entered, threw his gym bag, took off his shoes, dropping them by the door, and threw his body onto the couch, closing his eyes for a few seconds before his phone vibrated in his pocket.
It was a message from Pablo.
@Anchor_G
How are you?
Today was exhausting at work
Did you see your (close friend) today?
@Shark_7
I’m fine, and you?
Oh, my day was exhausting too, I feel like my body is dying, Are you back home?
Yes... I know what happened isn't his fault, but I can't act like nothing happened
@Anchor_G
No problem, with time you will see that everything that happened will be in the past
I’m fine too, don't worry
I went to get some food
(📌Anchor_G shared a photo)
@Shark_7
Ohh yummy 😋 you made me hungry, that’s not fair
Now I’m sad and hungry too because of you ;(
@Anchor_G
Are you allergic to any kind of food?
@Shark_7
Huh? No, I don't think so... why are you asking?
@Anchor_G
Are you in Barcelona? Sorry, I know it’s personal information, but trust me, I want it for a good reason
@Shark_7
Hahaha, don't worry, I won't see you as a stalker, and yes, I am in Barcelona
Ferran stayed lying on the couch for a few seconds, looking at the phone screen until he thought Pablo had left the chat.
He put the phone down on his stomach and closed his eyes again.
But within seconds, the phone vibrated, announcing a phone call.
He picked it up to find it was Eric.
He sighed and answered.
"Yes"
"Hello to you too?"
"My head is about to explode, I am hungry, and tir—"
"Ugh, can't you just shut up for a bit?"
"What do you want, idiot?"
"Me and a few others are going out to a birthday party in two hours, are you coming?"
"I don't think so"
"Look man, I was just trying to be polite, but you are coming either way"
"That’s imposs—"
The phone vibrated against his ear, signaling a message.
He pulled the phone away to see it was from Pablo.
@Anchor_G
Call the restaurant Compà and tell them there is an order for you under the name Pablo, and they will contact you to deliver it.. I tried to find a solution, I hope you don't mind :)
"Eric!"
"What?"
"Pablo sent me a message, I mean we were talking..."
"Uh-huh??"
"He ordered food for me from Compà and told them that I will contact them myself?!!!"
"I don't get it, how did he order food for you under his name but you are the one contacting them?"
"I don't know!"
"Ah, you idiot! The guy did this to buy you food himself but without invading your privacy and knowing your home address!"
"What..."
"He seems like a good guy honestly, but watch out, maybe he's tricking you"
"Of course I won't trust him easily, I’m not stupid!"
"Oh yes, yes, whatever, Go to your food and get ready to come to the party"
Eric hung up quickly before hearing Ferran’s reply, who quickly texted Pablo
@Shark_7
What do you mean?? Did you order food for me?
@Anchor_G
Yes :)
@Shark_7
But I didn't ask you for this
@Anchor_G
You don't need to ask for anything, and don't worry, it’s a very simple thing
I hope you like what I chose
And I apologize if you don't like it 😔
Ferran called the restaurant's number and checked that he wasn't being tricked.
Indeed, there was an order under the name Pablo, and it was already paid for! He just gave them his location and ended the call.
@Shark_7
Why did you pay for it too!!
@Anchor_G
Let me spoil you a little bit 😂
@Shark_7
Man…you sound like someone over fifty with this style.. don't stress me
@Anchor_G
Fifty! I am in mid-twenties 😟
@Shark_7
You say 'spoil you' who even says that 😭😭
@Anchor_G
I couldn't find a suitable word...
I have a plans in an hour
@Shark_7
Are you talking to me while going on romantic dates 🤨
@Anchor_G
Oh sorry, I didn't clarify
A plan for a party, I am going with a friend of mine
I will only stay for about an hour, I don't like loud parties
@Shark_7
Oh good, I thought you were going on romantic dates...
@Anchor_G
You talk as if we are in a relationship 😂
@Shark_7
Haaa !!I definitely didn't mean that
@Anchor_G
I am interested in talking to you
You are cute ☺️
Ferran put the phone down beside him, trying to stop himself from smiling like a crazy person at Pablo's words.
@Anchor_G
I am going to get ready, hope you enjoy the food
Goodbye, Shark 🦈
I really need to find a suitable name for you 🤓
@Shark_7
Yeah That’s great :)
The delivery arrived half an hour later.
Ferran opened the bag to find the hot Bocadillo filled with turkey, arugula, and creamy sauce, along with a small box of crispy Patatas Bravas.
He took his first bite and let out a real sigh of satisfaction.
The food was incredibly delicious, as if Pablo knew his taste perfectly.
He pulled out his phone, snapped a quick photo of the sandwich, and sent it to him with a text
(📌Shark_7 shared a photo)
@Shark_7
It arrived.. and it is so delicious! Thank you, Pablo, your choice is amazing 😋
He didn't wait for a reply because Pablo was getting ready.
He finished his food and felt his energy and mood improve by 180 degrees.
He looked at his watch, then at his sweatpants, and remembered Eric’s insistence.
"Alright.. maybe going out for a bit is better than staying alone here with my thoughts"
he muttered to himself as he stood up, heading to his room to change.
He chose a comfortable blue hoodie and black sports pants, and sprayed a light cologne.
An hour later, Ferran was standing with Eric in the loud atmosphere of the party in one of Barcelona's booked halls.
Colorful lights and music filled the place, and a few players and friends were talking and laughing.
Eric got busy talking with some of their teammates, so Ferran stood a bit away, leaning against a table.
He pulled out his phone curiously to see if Pablo had replied to him.
He opened the app to find a message sent a few minutes ago.
@Anchor_G
Enjoy your food, Nico,I am so glad you liked it
I just arrived at the party now... the atmosphere is loud and annoying as usual
I wished I stayed to talk to you 😔
Ferran smiled and raised his eyes from the screen while thinking of a reply.
In those exact seconds, his eyes scanned through the loud crowd at the party, stopping automatically on a quiet, dimly lit corner...
There, Joan was sitting, holding a glass of juice calmly, staring at his phone screen which reflected a white light on his quiet face, a slight smile painted on his lips.
Ferran didn't pay much attention to him and looked back down at his phone.
@Shark_7
Nico? Is this my new name? :)
@Anchor_G
If you don't like it, I can change it...
@Shark_7
No, I liked it :)
So, are you really interested in talking to me instead of going and meeting one of the gorgeous girls at the party? Or gorgeous guys, I don't know your preference -.- or are you just tricking me with sweet words '.'
@Anchor_G
I have no intention of tricking you
Also, I am picky with my choices, I won't just like anyone 🙅
@Shark_7
Oh really~
So what are your choices for a partner? ^.^
@Anchor_G
Hmm... I don't have specific choices, just someone who likes to take care of their appearance Personality, I like quiet, smart people
And you?
@Shark_7
Quiet and smart :) Oh, I have some bad news for you, Pablo
I am the loudest person you will ever meet :))
Ohh, how I love people who care about their clothes and appearance!! And I like smart people who take responsibility... umm don't take it the wrong way, but I like a leader personality...
@Anchor_G
Oh don't worry, I can handle some loudness ☺️
🤓 The traits match me
@Shark_7
Oh really
I feel like you're a bit arrogant or a full of yourself ...
@Anchor_G
Oh sorry if I gave you that impression, I was just joking with you
But seriously, I am not joking, the traits match me...
Also, I am serious about talking to you, I don't mean to annoy you
@Shark_7
Honestly
I’m starting to like you...
Ferran typed the last words, then locked his phone, smiling as he slipped it into his pocket and walked toward Eric and the rest of his teammates.