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Ella trapped, controlled, did a couple of keepy-uppy’s just to impress herself, then struck it back to her boss. Nat and Becca had said goodbye to the team today to report for England duty. Along with Sloane, they had six other players out for their country friendlies over the next two weeks, including Layla for Norway. Lucy had asked if Ella fancied a coffee, but as they were both still kitted up from training earlier, she’d suggested a kickabout. Lucy had been all for it.

“Not on pitches like this.”

“Not in kit like this,” Lucy confirmed. “These kids today, they don’t know they’re born.” She smiled at her own words as she stilled the ball. “When exactly did I turn into an old woman?”

Ella laughed. “You’re not old. There’s not one grey hair on your head.”

“My wife is really annoyed with me about that, too.” Lucy picked up the ball and walked Ella’s way.

It was early April, the sun was still out, and spring was in the air. It’d been a chilly March, but Ella hoped today was a sign the temperature was about to shift upwards. No matter what the weather, though, she still loved the feel of the grass beneath her feet. The smell of earth in her nostrils. It would always feel like home.

“Shall we call it a day?”

“Yes please. Half an hour is plenty.”

Lucy gave her a grin. “Don’t tell the players.”

They fell into an easy stride together, Ella shielding her eyes from the still-high April sun. In the distance, cars rumbled by on the dual carriageway, but on this pitch, she was in another world altogether.

“How’s Sloane feeling about the camp? Big game in the World Cup lead-up.”

“I’ve been trying to get her to focus on other things. I know she was tense waiting for the call-up after her injury. Once that was through, she was fine. Now it’s just a case of showing what she can do. I’m not worried.”

“England should be, maybe.”

“There is that.” Ella thought back to the other morning when Sloane had seemed preoccupied, and had jumped when she’d asked what she was looking at on her phone. Maybe she was more worried than she’d let on. The injury had made her doubt herself, but she was back on form now. Her off-pitch life was solid, and that always translated to game-time.

“You two seem good?” It was more a comment than a question, but Ella couldn’t help smile.

They were better than good.

They were flying.

“We are, although it’ll be nice when we can be truly public.” She shook her head. “But I wake up happy, so I can’t complain.”

“I think you’re the ideal couple,” Lucy confirmed. “Plus, whatever you’re doing for each other, keep it up. I’ve got a very happy top-notch striker, and a radiant performance coach, both at the top of their game. We missed you for those six weeks you were with the men. It’s good to have you back. The men didn’t want to lose you. You’re in demand.”

They reached the dugout at the side of the pitch, and Lucy grabbed bottles of water from the bucket and gave one to Ella. She waited until Ella had loosened the cap and taken a swig before she spoke.

“I wanted to ask as well about your plans. You and Sloane. Have you chatted about next season?”

Ella gulped, then shook her head. “Not really. She wanted to wait until after international break.”

Lucy nodded. “Makes sense.” She paused. “But if there was a way I could make the budget work, would you be interested in a full-time post? Maybe part-time performance coach, part-time youth football coach? If that’s something that interests you, you could take some coaching badges.” She held up a hand. “I haven’t worked it out quite yet, but I think it could work. You being out on the pitch doing personal sessions with the youngsters while working with the ball got me thinking. Plus, that would take you further out of Sloane’s orbit, if she stays. If you went full-time performance coach, we’d have to clear things with those higher up. I don’t want to lose you because of your relationship, Ella.”

Pure, hot joy sparked inside Ella. “Yes, I absolutely would be interested.” Spur of the moment, she pulled Lucy into a hug.

When she let go, her boss stepped back with a grin.

“Sorry, I just… That would be my dream full-time job. A mix of off-field and on-field.”

“Slow down, I haven’t worked it out yet. But if we’re serious about the women’s team development, then why not? Especially if things pan out this season, then the top brass have to back me.”

“I totally agree.”

“Good, I’m glad.” Lucy drained her water bottle, and started to walk into the main building. She held the door open for Ella. They both went straight to the changing room and swapped their boots for trainers. “When’s Sloane joining up with the team?”

“Tomorrow morning. She’s home getting ready now. I’m going around after this for an early birthday tea. She’s looking forward to seeing all her friends again. It’s been a while.” Ella was just glad Jess wasn’t American. She’d be teaming up with Nat and Becca. They would give her all the gossip on Jess when they got back.