Time on the Run 2

Daniel woke up the next morning with a grin. Last night had been unforgettable. Sofia had said yes. It wasn't a full-blown relationship yet, but it was something—a start.

At training that afternoon, Luis nudged him as they stretched. "You're looking extra happy today. Something happen?"

Daniel shrugged. "Maybe."

Miguel overheard and smirked. "If this is about Sofia, just say it, man. We all saw you two last night."

Daniel rolled his eyes, but he couldn't hide the small smile forming on his lips.

"Focus!" Coach Morales' voice cut through the chatter. "We have a match against Cerdanyola FC this weekend. They're tough, so no slacking!"

Daniel pushed everything else aside. Football came first.

The Matchday

CF Igualada walked onto the pitch with confidence, but Cerdanyola FC wasn't an easy opponent. They pressed hard, controlled possession, and within fifteen minutes, they scored.

1-0.

Daniel gritted his teeth. This wasn't going to be easy.

Then, in the second half, Luis sent a perfect through ball. Daniel sprinted past the defenders, his time-perception ability kicking in. The world slowed down for a split second as he read the goalkeeper's movement.

With precision, he chipped the ball over the keeper.

GOAL!

The stadium erupted.

Commentary rang through the speakers.

"¡Golazo de Daniel Carter! ¡Igualada empata el partido con una definición perfecta!"

Sofia, watching from the stands, clapped with a proud smile.

With only ten minutes left, Miguel sent in a corner kick. Daniel leaped into the air, connecting with a powerful header.

GOAL!

2-1. CF Igualada takes the lead!

A Dark Presence

The match ended in victory, but as Daniel walked off the pitch, that feeling returned.

Someone was watching him.

His eyes scanned the crowd. Nothing. But he could sense it—just like before.

Someone out there wasn't done with him yet.

And he was going to find out who.