Adriano sat comfortably in the sleek, sunlit meeting room of a high-end boutique hotel just outside Miami Beach.
The atmosphere was relaxed but focused—the kind of place where serious decisions were made, but without the stale air of corporate boardrooms. Dressed in a simple but elegant cream polo and navy slacks, he sipped from a cup of espresso as his assistant Raul spread out a series of charts and data sheets across the table.
Jorge Mendes, his long-time agent and close friend, leaned back with a satisfied grin. The silver-haired super-agent was used to negotiating with football's biggest clubs, but even he seemed slightly amazed at the numbers they were discussing.
"Let's begin," Mendes said, clapping his hands lightly together. "First off, I need to congratulate you, Adriano. You're not just one of the best players on the pitch—you're now among the richest and smartest off of it."
Adriano offered a sheepish smile, adjusting his watch. "I had a bit of help," he said casually. "Let's just say I had a… hunch."
Raul chuckled. "A hunch that turned twenty million into over half a billion in Bitcoin alone."
(Bitcoin ptices rose to around 20k in 2015.)
The meeting had started with the usual review of income streams—salary, endorsements, bonuses. But what stood out was Adriano's incredible success in investing.
Since late 2013, when he was still turning heads at Málaga, he'd been quietly planting seeds in places no footballer usually did.
Using knowledge from his past life, Adriano had poured money into Tesla when it was struggling, AMD before its major resurgence, Twitter before Elon Musk's chaotic takeover, and even Rockstar Games, sensing the upcoming explosion around open-world gaming.
The results spoke for themselves.
"Your net assets as of May this year," Raul said, tapping on a digital report projected on the TV screen, "are hovering around €700 million.
But based on how the markets are moving—and assuming the current bullish trend continues—we're expecting it to cross €800 million by year-end. Especially if the stocks and Bitcoin hold or grow. "
He then added," I'm also looking into other investments like you suggested. Your plan to buy a championship club sounds risky however.
Adriano leaned forward slightly, intrigued. " I'm not sure yet, just browsing. I'm still playing in the Premier League. I have seen the rise in revenue. Soon, there might be unexpected surprises. Just keep an eye on Leeds United . They are lower than 50 million, so it won't cost me much.
Mendes nodded, " I'll keep an eye out. Leeds United is pretty bad now. But it has decent fan base. Anyways, that's all for your income part. You're on track to be a billionaire kid." He joked.
Adriano chuckled and waved it away. "And that includes the Etihad Airways, and Rolex deal?"
"Correct," Raul confirmed. "Also the Louis Vuitton ambassador fee, which renews next quarter. Plus the Nike long-term contract—you're getting paid just under €8 million annually from them alone. They will bring a new contract after October, judging by the factor you win Ballon D'or not."
He chuckled," Go and win the Euro, and it's all yours this year, guaranteed."
Mendes whistled low. "And all that before the new Manchester City offer."
Adriano blinked. "Speaking of which—how serious is that?"
Mendes gave him a look, then smiled like a man who'd just aced a negotiation. "Very serious. They're preparing to offer you a contract worth over €36 million per year—base salary. Without bonuses. With bonuses, media, performance incentives? It crosses €50 million."
Adriano's eyebrows lifted. "That's…"
"Record-breaking," Mendes finished with a glint of pride. "Not even Ronaldo or Messi earned this much at your age. Even Their current salary is close to yours before they renew it. Al Mubarak said they can raise it to €40 million if you feel this is not enough.
City knows what they've got—you're not just their best player, you're the face of the club globally. You've delivered their first Champions League. You broke scoring records, assist records, made headlines every week. If you told them you wanted a stake in the club, they'd consider it."
Adriano leaned back in his chair, thoughtful. He didn't feel greedy—he never had. His ambitions weren't about hoarding wealth. They were about securing freedom. Securing the ability to shape his own life. And maybe, just maybe, help shape others' too.
"I don't care about squeezing them," he said after a pause. "This offer is fine. I'm already earning more than I can spend. Kate is also well off financially. As long as I can keep playing, keep winning, and take care of everyone I care about… that's enough."
Mendes gave him a long look before nodding. "You're rare, you know that? Most players your age chase headlines, throw tantrums if the club delays a bonus payment. You… you just keep showing up and winning."
Raul chimed in again. "Speaking of winning—do you want to go ahead with the Bugatti endorsement?"
Adriano considered it. "What's the scope?"
"A limited edition collab," Raul explained. "They want you as the face of their new ultra-luxury sports model. Two ads, a social media campaign, and one private launch appearance. The fee is €5 million, plus a special customized car."
Adriano grinned. "I say yes. I've always liked how those machines sound. My Lamborghini is still doing great, Maybe I'll keep it for rare occasions."
"Then we'll get the papers sorted," Mendes said, jotting down a note. "There's also a growing interest in you from Asia. Japanese and Korean markets are heating up, and a few investment funds from Singapore want to partner with your personal brand."
Adriano tilted his head. "What kind of partnerships?"
"Think lifestyle branding. Training clinics, digital media rights, some merchandising deals. Early stages, but potentially big. We can explore after the off-season."
Adriano nodded. "Alright. Let's put that on hold for now, but keep an eye."
They paused for lunch after wrapping the main points, plates of seafood pasta and grilled vegetables being brought in as sunlight poured through the tall windows.
As they ate, the tone shifted from business to something more personal. Mendes lifted his wine glass slightly. "You know, it's funny. When I first met you, I thought you were just another talented kid. Better than most, but too young and raw. But you've proved me wrong—over and over."
Adriano smiled. "I had to. In this business, talent's only the start."
Raul grinned. "And now you've got both talent and brains. Most of these players retire and don't know what to do with themselves. You'll probably own a club one day."
"Maybe," Adriano said, his tone thoughtful again. "But for now, I just want to keep things steady. Play my game. Support Kate. Be present."
Mendes leaned forward. "And what about after football? Have you thought about it?"
Adriano hesitated. "Not really. I'm living in the moment right now. I plan to retire after 2030 world cup, If my body remains in this condition. So that's still 15 years away.
Maybe I'll invest more. Maybe start a foundation. Build something lasting. But I'm not in a rush."
They finished lunch slowly, the tone lightening with jokes about paparazzi and fantasy football. As they stood to leave, Raul packed up the documents and Mendes adjusted his blazer.
"We'll get the contract drawn up and sent over," Mendes said. "City will announce by next week, I imagine."
"Alright," Adriano replied. "Thanks, both of you."
He shook their hands, stepping out into the afternoon heat.
As he walked toward the car, he pulled out his phone and saw a text from Kate:
"Done with press. Want to meet by the beach?"
He smiled and texted back, "On my way."
Business could wait a little. For now, he had someone to meet.
****
Adriano had just left for the meeting when Kate slipped into the soft, pale-green room with her agent, Marissa Quinn. Plush chairs faced a low mahogany table scattered with reports, post-it notes, and laptop screens. The air smelled faintly of coconut—either from the candles or the hotel air freshener—and the midday sunlight streamed through sheer curtains, giving everything a soft, warm glow.
Kate sank into a chair, slipping off her sandals, her legs crossed and mind prepared for stats rather than shoots. Marissa closed her laptop and leaned forward, her suitcase of documents spilling onto the table.
"Ready?" Marissa asked, lifting a slim binder labeled Age of Ultron Premier Weekend.
Kate nodded, bracing herself. "Show me the numbers."
"Good news? Girl, it's fantastic," Marissa smiled, pulling up the numbers. "In just three days, $100 million domestically. Worldwide projections pushing close to $250 million, and the international markets are still rolling in."
Kate blinked, stunned. "That's… huge."
"Huge doesn't cover it." Marissa grinned. "Projections say it's on track to clear $500 million in the first week globally."
Kate's jaw dropped. "Half a billion? In a week? Are you sure I'm not dreaming?"
Marissa chuckled. "I've triple-checked. And now, the part you really want: the internet response."
Kate leaned in, prepared for praise but ready for the worst.
Marissa smirked, raising an eyebrow. "Brace yourself. Because this mix? It's wild."
Kate's stomach tightened. "Okay, lay it on me."
Marissa pulled open a report labeled #FansSayItBest.
"Majority is glowing. 'Kate Upton steals the show as the Scarlet Witch.'
'She brings compassion and intensity without overwhelming the cast.'
'The softer powers scenes? Cinematic poetry—she owns it.'
Fan consensus is that she made Wanda more than just eye candy—she is the character."
Kate smiled, blinking. "That's what I wanted, to bring her alive. I wanted to show that I can also shine on my own."
She paused and said, " You know, I've been trying quite hard to show my skills and make a name for myself. Specially with Adri always shining so brightly and reaching new heights. I wanted to stand proudly beside him."
Marissa nodded. "You did. And big time."
"But there are critics," Marissa continued. "Small percentage, less than ten percent, offering thoughtful critique. 'Some dialogue feels forced.'
'Needs more emotional range in Act Two.' That kind of thing."
Kate frowned. "That hurts, but it's valid. I'll work on it."
"And then," Marissa said, barely keeping a straight face, "the fandom went bananas."
Kate braced herself again.
Marissa held up her tablet. "Some of it… let's just say it's unforgettable."
***
Kate's eyes went wide as the screen filled with the most ridiculous, hilarious, and sometimes utterly baffling comments.
"Alright, here's the first classic: 'Wanda's hex powers can't compete with her ability to step on me.'"
Kate nearly choked on her iced tea. "What?!"
Marissa smirked. "I know, right? Then there's 'Scarlet Witch? More like Scarlet Thicc—blessed by the anime gods.'"
Kate buried her face in her hands, laughing despite herself. "Oh my god, stop."
"But wait," Marissa continued, barely containing her grin. "'I'm pretty sure she's the true waifu of the MCU.' 'Mommy Wanda has me shooketh.'"
Kate squealed. "No! I'm not a mommy!"
Marisa winked, "Maybe Adriano can change that?"
Kate blushed and threw a cushion at Marisa who ducked laughing.
Marissa tapped the screen, showing the next gem. "Here's one from Tumblr: 'If Wanda's hex is as strong as her smirk, I'll lick the screen.'"
Kate giggled, shaking her head. "Please no more."
"Just wait." Marissa scrolled faster. "'I want to be hexed by her… and then death by snu snu .'
'Wanda, sit on me, I'll sell my kidneys.'"
Kate collapsed laughing. "Oh god, this is terrible. They need help."
Kate was still scrolling through the sea of reactions while Marissa laughed from across the couch, reading out loud with dramatic flair like a Shakespearean actor in a Comic-Con cosplay panel.
"Oh my god—listen to this one," Marissa said between snorts. "'Scarlet Witch just hexed my bank account. I bought six tickets and now I'm broke. Worth it.'"
Kate blinked. "That one's actually wholesome."
Marissa held up her phone, then dramatically read:
"kate upton as wanda?? mcu finally cooking with SEASONING. spice level: 1000/10 🔥🫦🪄"
"she didn't act… she stole my heart with that wink. I'm still floating. still levitating. still crying."
"Mommy witch pls hex me into next week I beg 🛐🛐🛐"
Kate's jaw dropped. "What is wrong with them and wanting to be stepped on?!"
Marissa cackled and kept going.
"me after watching wanda on screen for 3 mins: Ironman who? I only see . 😩🧎♂️🔥"
"this movie made me believe in women. and chaos magic. Gyatts and thighs."
Kate fell over sideways on the couch, face buried in a pillow. " This is even worse than when I did swimsuit modeling."
"Here's more," Marissa said, scrolling like she was digging for digital gold:
"if scarlet witch told me to jump off a cliff, I'd ask which one."
"I don't want to survive the multiverse. I want to get obliterated by Wanda's gaze."
"kate upton's smile is the reason my parents are divorced and I'm okay with it."
"they said she couldn't act. they lied. SHE ATE. she devoured. no crumbs. my soul left my body."
"kate really said 'let me put the MARVEL in Marvel Cinematic Universe.'"
Kate looked horrified and flattered at the same time. "This is insane. They're unhinged."
"Sweetheart," Marissa said dryly, "you're officially Tumblr core. Embrace it."
Then she pulled up fan art. "Look—someone already posted a gif edit of you hexing Adriano and he turns into a rose. It's captioned: 'I want her to destroy me emotionally and financially.'"
Kate blinked. "Emotionally and financially??"
Another comment rolled in right as Marissa refreshed Twitter.
"adriano scored a champions league goal AND scored kate upton?? he won the multiverse."
"this man has Ballon d'Or energy and main character energy. king shit."
"kate x adriano is real-life fanfiction. someone write a 100k slow burn with hurt/comfort and enemies to lovers even tho they're engaged irl."
Marissa doubled over laughing.
"I can't read anymore!" Kate said, crying tears of laughter. "I feel like I've been mentally hexed." Kate fell back onto the couch. "I need therapy."
"No, honey," Marissa said, fanning herself. "You need a merch line. Start selling hexed candles and thigh-shaped mousepads. The simps will eat it up."
Kate groaned, laughing. "We're not doing thigh mousepads."
Marissa winked. "Yet."
Kate wiped tears from her eyes, shaking her head at the chaotic fandom passion.
Marissa smiled, closing the tablet. "So, in short: you're killing it at the box office, critics are intrigued, and the internet is… well, internet-ing."
Kate let out a long breath. "I guess that's the price of fame."
Marissa nodded. "Exactly. But don't sweat the 'step on me mommy' crowd—they just want to feel seen. It means you're resonating."
Kate gave a sheepish grin. "At least they're creative."
Marissa laughed. "Oh, they're creative. You haven't seen the fan art. It's… something."
Kate groaned playfully. "Marissa, please don't."
They shared a laugh, the tension broken, the excitement simmering back up.
At that moment, a PR assistant knocked and entered with a phone on speaker. "Kate, your manager wants you for the press at noon. Ready to talk earnings and market strategy?"
Kate nodded, standing. "I'm ready."
Marissa gave her a supportive smile. "You've got this."
As Kate stepped out, she glanced one last time at the tablet, still smiling at the absurdity and warmth of the fandom's love. The world was watching, laughing, adoring, and sometimes cringing—all part of the journey she was on.
And Kate ? She was ready to take it all on.
After she was done with the meeting, she texted Adriano, " Done with press. Want to meet by the beach?"
He texted back, "On my way."
Kate smiled and got into her car. Everything else can wait. She just wanted to spend some time with the man she loves.
****
Adriano and Kate emerged from the hotel lobby hand in hand, the warm Florida sun casting long shadows on the pavement. The day had been a whirlwind of greetings, laughs, and well-wishes, but now, away from the crowd, they craved a little peace.
Adriano glanced toward the horizon where the sky melted into shades of peach and lavender. "How about a walk on the beach?" he suggested with a relaxed smile.
Kate nodded, brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Sounds perfect. I need to clear my head after today's chaos."
They stepped onto a narrow path leading through swaying palms, their footsteps muffled by the soft sand. The beach was a secluded stretch, bordered by rugged rocks on one side and gentle waves on the other.
The air smelled faintly of salt and jasmine, carrying the distant hum of seagulls.
Kate kicked off her sandals, letting the cool grains sift between her toes. Adriano followed suit, feeling the familiar tug of calm that only the ocean could bring. They walked side by side, feet sinking lightly with each step, the tide washing up close enough to tease their ankles.
"So," Adriano began, turning toward her with a playful grin, "tell me something I missed today. Did you charm the room like I knew you would?"
Kate laughed softly. "Oh, you know, the usual. Made a few reporters blush, dodged the 'most famous couple' questions, and somehow managed to not trip on the red carpet."
He shook his head in mock disapproval. "Dodging questions and tripping? Not the same skill set, but both impressive."
They shared a quiet chuckle, the sound mingling with the rhythm of the waves. Then Kate nudged him gently. "What about you? You were all over social media today. I saw fans flipping out over you signing autographs near the hotel."
Adriano shrugged modestly. "I guess being the 'Champion Turned Marvel Sidekick' has its perks. But honestly, it was nice to just be there, no pressure."
Kate's eyes sparkled as she looked up at him. "You're always under pressure, you know. Whether it's scoring in a final or walking a red carpet."
He reached for her hand, lacing their fingers together. "Not when I'm with you."
They continued walking until they reached a natural alcove formed by a large outcrop of granite boulders. It created a small cove, sheltered and quiet—a perfect spot for a moment alone. Kate leaned against the warm stone, the setting sun painting her face with golden light. Adriano sat down beside her, his arm draping protectively around her shoulders.
"You're glowing," he said softly.
Kate smiled, resting her head against his chest. "It's been a good day. Exhausting, but good."
Adriano brushed a stray lock of hair from her forehead. "You're incredible. Watching you today, I kept thinking how lucky I am."
She lifted her head to look at him, her eyes filled with affection and a hint of tiredness. "Same here. I still can't believe how far we've come."
They fell into a comfortable silence, listening to the waves and the distant call of a lone pelican. The world outside seemed to pause just for them.
Suddenly Kate pulled back with a playful smirk. "Okay, but seriously—I'm tired and there's sand everywhere. I want to go home and shower."
Adriano laughed, amused by the sudden complaint. "I'll fix that."
Before she could protest, he scooped her up effortlessly, cradling her in his arms. Kate let out a surprised laugh, wrapping her arms around his neck.
"Hey, put me down! People are watching" she protested, though her voice was warm with affection.
"Not a chance," Adriano said, grinning. "You're my tired superheroine."
They began the walk back to the car, Adriano's footsteps steady as Kate nestled closer, head resting against his chest. A few beachgoers glanced their way, discreetly pulling out phones and snapping candid shots.
Whispers floated on the warm breeze—words like "So romantic," "They're the real deal," and "Couple Goals AF" barely masked beneath quiet admiration.
Adriano caught one of the whispers, chuckled softly, and squeezed Kate's hand. "Looks like we're inspiring people."
Kate smiled shyly, her fingers tightening around his. "Maybe they just want to see what happiness looks like."
They reached the sleek black Mercedes Adriano rented parked just beyond the sand dunes. Adriano carefully settled Kate into the passenger seat before slipping behind the wheel. The car smelled faintly of leather and pine-scented air freshener—comforting in its own way.
As they pulled away, the sky exploded into vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple. The sun dipped slowly, casting a fiery glow across the horizon. Kate rested her head against the window, eyes half-closed, the events of the day washing over her.
Adriano glanced over, catching her peaceful expression. His heart swelled with quiet joy. "You know," he said softly, "no matter how crazy things get, moments like this make it all worth it."
Kate opened her eyes and smiled up at him. "I couldn't agree more."
They drove in relaxing silence, the world outside fading into twilight. Behind the closed windows, the two of them were simply Adriano and Kate—just a couple enjoying a walk on the beach, wrapped in the warmth of each other's company as the day gently faded into night.
****
After a few quiet, sun-drenched days in Florida filled with laughter, lazy breakfasts, and evening board games with Kate's parents, Adriano and Kate found themselves once again caught up in the whirlwind of their fast-paced life.
This time, it was a couple's photoshoot for Vogue scheduled in Las Vegas—a high-profile feature that had fashion insiders buzzing. The theme was "Power and Passion," and the editorial team had spared no expense in crafting something bold, elegant, and intimate.
The shoot took place in a luxurious penthouse suite overlooking the Strip, its floor-to-ceiling windows framing a glittering backdrop of Vegas in the late afternoon sun.
Inside, racks of designer clothing lined one wall: Versace, Balmain, Tom Ford, and Alexander McQueen. Adriano leaned against a makeup counter, wearing only black dress pants and sipping a smoothie while a stylist fussed with the collars of an unbuttoned satin shirt hanging on a mannequin next to him.
"Feels like we're gearing up for a Bond movie," he murmured, eyeing the fashion pieces.
Kate walked out of the dressing room in a scarlet silk dress with a thigh-high slit, her blonde hair styled into loose, old-Hollywood waves. She twirled once, then struck a mock sultry pose. "Darling, shall I shoot the villain or seduce him?"
Adriano grinned. "Depends—do I get to be the villain or the seduced?"
A photographer, crouched beside a lighting rig, chuckled. "Hold that energy. That's exactly what I want."
The first setup was minimalist—just the two of them on a black velvet couch, backlit by golden sunlight. Adriano, in a tailored white dinner jacket, sat with a glass of whiskey in hand. Kate draped herself across his lap, one arm resting on his shoulder, her gaze directly into the lens.
Between takes, the banter was easy and fun. When Kate accidentally knocked over a prop wine glass while adjusting her pose, Adriano quipped, "That's the second-most expensive thing she's broken after my last pair of sunglasses."
Kate rolled her eyes but giggled. "And your ego after that FIFA match, don't forget that."
"Hey, I let you win." Adriano chuckled.
They moved through several more looks: one where Adriano wore a deep Royal Blue tux and Kate a sheer silver gown, standing on the rooftop balcony as the neon city flickered behind them; another inside the suite's marble bathtub, where Adriano sat in a crisp white shirt while Kate leaned in from the edge, water dripping off the hem of her sequined dress as they shared a mischievous, knowing glance.
Throughout the day, the Vogue team was thrilled by their chemistry—natural, unforced, the kind that didn't need to be posed into place. The couple laughed between shots, shared little whispers that made Kate blush or Adriano smirk, and even broke into a brief, impromptu tango when the photographer played soft jazz to set the mood.
"I can't dance to this," Kate had whispered, trying not to step on his shoes.
"Yes, you can. Just follow my lead."
"Adriano, you say that every time. Then you spin me like I'm in a Fast & Furious car chase."
"Ah, but you always land on your feet, don't you?"
"Barely."
"Details."
By the time the final look wrapped—a romantic black-and-white shot of them curled up under silk sheets, Kate's head on Adriano's chest, both of them barefoot and smiling—the team gave a round of spontaneous applause. The creative director walked over with tears of pride in her eyes.
"You two aren't just beautiful," she said, placing a hand over her heart. "You radiate something real. Vogue will be lucky to have this spread."
Kate flushed, offering a shy thank you. Adriano nodded appreciatively, pulling his fiancée closer with one arm.
Afterward, the couple retreated to their suite to wind down. Kate peeled off her makeup with a cotton pad, sitting cross-legged on the hotel bed in Adriano's hoodie, while he packed the last of his things.
"I still have glitter in places glitter shouldn't be," she muttered, peering into the mirror.
Adriano zipped up their suitcase. "Think of it as a Vegas souvenir. Better than a hangover."
Kate laughed. "True. Though a hangover sounds less itchy."
With everything packed and ready, they took one last look out at the Strip. The city pulsed with life, but it was time to move on—to something quieter, something closer to home. Lisbon.
June 3rd marked the next leg of their journey. As the private plane soared across the Atlantic, Kate curled up against Adriano under a soft blanket, flipping through photos from the Vogue shoot. She paused at a candid one the photographer had taken off-script—Adriano kissing her temple as she laughed.
"This one's my favorite," she said softly, showing him.
He looked down and smiled. "Mine too. It looks like us."
Their plane touched down in Lisbon just before noon. The sun was high, casting a warm sheen over the terracotta rooftops and cobblestone streets. The airport was less chaotic than LAX or Heathrow—fewer cameras, fewer crowds.
Still, a handful of fans lingered respectfully near the arrivals area.
"Bem-vindos!" one man called out, holding a Portugal jersey and a Sharpie.
Adriano smiled, signing it quickly while Kate waited a few steps back, sunglasses perched atop her head. A young girl, no older than ten, approached Kate shyly and offered a rose.
"For you," she said, eyes wide.
Kate knelt down, touched by the gesture and replied in mixed Portuguese. "Obrigada, querida. That's so sweet."
Adriano's parents, Rosa and Julio, were waiting outside in a silver SUV. Rosa rushed forward first, arms outstretched. "Meu filho!" she exclaimed, pulling Adriano into a tight hug.
"Missed you, Mom" Adriano said, kissing her cheek.
Julio followed with a firm handshake and a proud smile. "Looks like our boy brought a superstar home."
Kate stepped in to hug them both warmly. "I missed you guys."
"We missed you too, querida," Rosa said, brushing her cheek gently. "You've been glowing all over our TV!"
Julio chuckled. "And I saw the magazine photos on Facebook. You two looked like movie royalty."
Adriano grinned. "It's all Kate. I'm just the trophy fiancé."
"Please," Kate said, slipping her hand into his. "You're the world's most overachieving accessory."
Everyone laughed, and with the luggage loaded, they drove off toward Adriano's childhood neighborhood, where the next chapter of their visit was about to begin.