Chapter 7: A new beginning
The morning light spilled through the curtains, casting soft rays on the nearly empty room. David zipped up his duffel bag, the weight of the day pressing on his shoulders. What had once been a lively space adorned with football posters and gear now felt barren. On the desk, a folded envelope caught his eye. He reached for it, hesitated, and then left it where it was.
"David, are you ready? Wayne's outside!" his mom called from the living room.
He took one last glance around, his chest tightening. This was it. Slinging the bag over his shoulder, he headed downstairs.
Outside, the black SUV parked in their driveway gleamed in the sunlight. Wayne Rooney leaned casually against the driver's door, scrolling through his phone. The sight of a football legend in their quiet neighborhood still felt surreal. Across the street, kids gathered in clusters, pointing and whispering.
"You finally coming, superstar?" Wayne teased, flashing a grin as David and his mom approached.
David rolled his eyes, but the corners of his lips tugged upward. "Just making sure I don't forget anything."
As Wayne opened the trunk to load David's bags, the front door creaked open. David's dad stepped out, holding the envelope from David's desk.
"You forgot this," he called, walking over. He handed it to David, his voice gruff with emotion. "Read it when you're alone, yeah?"
David nodded, gripping the envelope tightly. "Thanks, Dad."