Marco left to handle the notifications while Demien packed essentials in his travel bag, and when the packing was finished he sent a text to Sophia.
Made my decision. United. Flying to Manchester this afternoon.
Her reply came within two minutes.
Proud of you. Call me when you land.
He sent brief messages to Isabella and Luca, and both replied quickly with congratulations before the car arrived at eleven-thirty.
Luca walked into the apartment as Demien was carrying his bag to the door, and he stopped when he saw the packed bag and understood what it meant.
"United," Luca said.
"Yeah," Demien confirmed. "Car's coming now."
Luca walked to the couch and they sat for a moment without speaking, and the silence held the weight of a year spent as roommates and teammates.
"Good luck," Luca finally said, and they embraced briefly before pulling back. "Don't forget us when you're scoring at Old Trafford."
"Not possible," Demien replied.
