i still get hate and bitchy comments for how i ended this story, (even though i ended it in the most fucking undramatical way possible), so i wrote this "sequel"-oneshot to make all those ungrateful people get off my back.:):):) but mainly i wrote it for the dedicated readers who really appreciate the hard work i put into this book and supported every chapter of it. love you, enjoy all 8k of it.
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Arsenal FC's 'Golden Boy' is worth as much as his nickname claims. Or, £32.45 million - according to Spain.

The Golden Boy with the golden hair and golden smile, picked up from down under, is continuing his glorious journey as he's packing his bags to now settle down in Madrid, Spain.

Recent Champion League winners Real Madrid announced on Tuesday morning that 21-year-old Luke Hemmings will now be wearing their white victorious jerseys. Arsenal commented on the news only minutes later, thanking their Golden Boy for their time with him, but are now hoping that their newest purchase - former Paris Saint Germain player Sean Ibori (22) - will bring them the success Hemmings has done.

Hemmings was eager to let the world know about his 3 year contract with the defending champions, sharing a picture online with the design of his new Real Madrid attire, now sporting number 18 on his back.

Hemmings also added a caption to the picture saying: "It's with both extreme excitement and sadness that I say I'm leaving the country and team that have given me everything, to now move on to glorious Spain! I will now be calling Madrid my home, and Real Madrid my team. Words can not describe how excited I am to take this huge step in my life and career, and I want to thank Arsenal for making this happen. With a great team and great friends I have become a better player, and hopefully I will keep improving in my new club. Thanks for this opportunity! Hala Madrid y Nada Más!"

With a star-team like Real, we don't think Hemmings will do anything else but improve. Even though Arsenal contains nothing but great players, they will always be in the shadow of the Spanish dream teams. We still want to know what the Spanish teams eat to become so great? We're sure it's the paella.

Well, we're wishing Hemmings all the best. In a city where the sun almost always shines and the food is made out of the most expensive spice there is, there's no doubt the Golden Boy will fit right in.

**

Ashton waved to the group of fans pressed against the high fences as he slowly drove onto the practice area. He parked his black Audi where he always did, breathing out lightly before reaching for his duffel bag on the passenger seat. Opening the door and being met with the unbelievable warmth Madrid brought today, Ashton pulled at the collar of his white t-shirt and cursed himself out for wearing black jeans.

He could still hear the fans as he made his way over to the locker rooms, waving and smiling at them once again before entering the cool building. Nodding at the people he met in the hallways he kept the smile on his face until he entered the locker room, immediately being met with several teammates.

"Buenos días" Ashton greeted loudly, like he always did, but was shushed by everyone in the room. His eyebrows furrowed together at their response, always used to being the happy pill of the team, always spreading positivity and was always the one to make people crack a smile.

He liked to think he lived up to his unbelievably stupid nickname his teammates had once given him; el payaso.

"What's that for?" he asked and stepped farther inside to the locker room, watching the guys crowd around the TV that was sat in the corner of the room, watching the president of Real Madrid speak during a press conference.

"They're announcing the new player" one of them answered Ashton without glancing away from the screen, making Ashton's eyes widen before he leaned against two of his teammates and let his eyes linger on the screen.

The press conference kept going, the president speaking slow and clear for all the reporters in front of him. After nearly 4 years in Spain, Ashton spoke the language fluently so it was with boredom he listened to the different people speak on the screen.

"-so it is with great pleasure we welcome Luke Hemmings to Real Madrid C.F"

"No fucking way" Ashton swore out loudly as he watched the familiar blonde walk up the podium with a smile on his face. He waved down to the reporters before walking over to the president and shook his hand, saying something Ashton could only make out as some kind of thank you, before he was handed his jersey and his own microphone.

"Hey, isn't Irwin's boyfriend?" one of his teammates cheered, making all the others laugh out loudly.

"Fuck off" Ashton told them without glancing away from the TV and listened closely to what Luke was saying.

Three years ago during Champions League, when Luke's Arsenal was visiting Madrid, the first real story about Luke and Ashton had dropped. It was bound to happen after Ashton had so carelessly kissed the blonde out on the practice grounds with fans and reporters hanging off the fence a couple of feet away from them.

There were pictures, videos, articles, interviews; everything, about the so called 'love affair' between the two boys. Ashton didn't mind it since he had already been out of the closet at that time, and most people knew about where he stood.

It had been harder for Luke though. He had always been scared of coming out, but coming out like this, when it wasn't his own choice, made it harder for him. Ashton knew people had a problem with homosexuality; the whole world did, but it seemed a whole lot more evident in the world of soccer. A world that is dominated by rich old homophobic men in suits.

After a few phone calls between Ashton and Luke, Luke had asked for some space. 'Some space' ended up lasting for two years. Till this day the two boys hadn't had a real conversation, which was only because the two boys were too scared their careers would turn into something completely different.

It changed Luke's at least. The boy was put on the bench a while until everything cooled down. He never said anything about the kiss either; never confirmed that the rumors about him being gay were true or not, so people seemed to think he wasn't. Though, Ashton got to hear from Michael that Luke had broken up with that boyfriend of his about a week after he went to Madrid, and Ashton would like to think he was one of the reasons for that.

But the biggest reason Luke was still hiding even though he was in some way out to the whole wide world, was that he was scared to be the center of attention. At least when it came to this.

Though, after neither Luke or Ashton made any comments about the happenings, and also never got seen together or spoke to each other, the news died down relatively quickly. Speculations started running back and forth around the world, and most people were sure that the boys didn't even share a loving kiss, only a greeting one.

Ashton was pretty sure people were still trying to find out the truth behind it, but he didn't bother to care about any of it. If Luke didn't care, then why should he?

"I feel like it's truly an achievement to sign a contract with Real Madrid. This is truly one of the top 3 clubs in my book, and it's a childhood dream to play here. I'm grateful for every opportunity I've been given, and I'm more than ready to give my all in this club" Luke spoke, his blue eyes bright of happiness, making Ashton bite the upper skin on his bottom lip as he watched.

He had barely seen Luke for a whole year. They hadn't been put to play against each other since last time 3 years ago, so they hadn't met since. After Ashton had politely declined playing in Australia's national team, due to their lack of help for medication and mental support, he hadn't been able to see Luke there either.

Ashton's agent had taught him to not let anything negative disturb him when he was finally in such a positive place. He was at his top game and neither did Ashton or anyone else want him to fall into a slump just because of one significant person. Ashton had gotten used to the fact that he was pretty much better off without Luke.

And he was, truly, because 9 months ago he left his safe and loving Atletico Madrid with a slight sting in his heart and got sold to a new club. A club that made him step up his game even further; helped him get even better, and helped him win one of the biggest titles there is. A club that Luke was currently being signed to as well.

"Ashton," a voice spoke up, making Ashton turn his head to watch their coach at the doorway. He was glancing at the TV all the guys had been watching, breathing out a chuckle and shook his head before looking back at Ashton. "A word with you, please"

Ashton nodded and pursed lips before stepping away and walked behind his coach. He could feel his teammates' eyes on him, giving them all the finger before exiting the locker room and followed his coach through the hallway.

"So," Ashton started and tried to keep up with his coach's unnecessary fast pace before letting out a small sigh, "Hemmings?"

"Is there going to be a problem?" he asked, quickly looking over his shoulder before turning back to look at where he was headed.

"I don't know" Ashton mumbled honestly, because he truly didn't know. Luke had always been unpredictable and even though Ashton still had feelings for the boy that could easily blossom up to something stronger, he had no idea how Luke felt at the moment. Luke could easily go back to hating him again.

"Ashton, listen. I don't know what's going on between the two of you, I've heard a lot but I don't know what to believe. I did not have you in mind when I chose to buy Hemmings, which is how it should be. Your history does not get to control the whole team. I don't care if you two are in love or if you hate each other, if you're a couple or not, all I want you to know is that it will not get to affect the sport you play. So whatever happens, you're gonna play together. Am I clear?" the coach spoke and stopped to look Ashton straight in the eye.

Ashton bit his bottom lip and sighed before slowly nodding his head, "Yep, crystal"

**

"So, this is your new home. Not so bad, huh?"

Luke slowly stepped inside the spacious apartment, the large windows lighting up the home and making it possible for him to look out over the busy streets of Madrid.

A small grin spread on his face he stepped farther into his new home and let the tip of his fingers grace the leather couch. He turned around and looked at his agent, eying the man that had grown to be like a father to him, before smiling big and nodded his head.

"It's fucking amazing" Luke answered and fell down on the comfortable couch. He closed his eyes in content and tilted his head back to let out a heavy breath. The day had been hectic with meetings, press conferences, people, moving from one country to another, and changing his whole life-schedule.

"And there's more," Tom spoke, his Dutch accent coming through so easily in his simple sentences as he spoke. "Key to the apartment, key to your car in the basement garage, items from your new sponsor and team, and a whole lot of things you probably don't need but they seem to like to kiss your ass"

Multiple things were place in front of Luke on the living room table. Luke had been through it before; the hype of being the new player who's showered with things to make them think they're everything before the actual hard work starts. Though, Luke had never been through being the "Golden Boy" who the whole world had their eyes on.

"I'm enjoying them kissing my ass," Luke spoke and chuckled before running a hand through his hair, "Lord only knows when hell will explode"

"How a boy- a teammate that is- will make hell explode, I will never understand. I think you're just overreacting"

"Of course I'm overreacting," Luke answered and leaned back on the couch again. "I have no idea how people will be reacting though. Some can be quite explosive human beings"

"Then don't let it get to you," Tom spoke and shrugged carelessly. "You've been through a lot, you should be used to some people being negative. That's all what being in the spotlight is about. Not everyone will love you"

"Yeah, no I know," Luke said and nodded his head, nibbling on his bottom lip anxiously as he glanced away from his agent. If Luke was worried about how people would support him in his new jersey, it was nothing compared to the worry he felt for a special someone.

The media had been up his ass for at least one and a half year non-stop about his and Ashton's relationship, when really, it was nothing to tell. They may have had something before, on the camp several years ago, but they were young and spent too much time together to know if it was love of just plain comfort.

They also had that stupid kiss, reckless and careless, which caused the media to burst into flames of excitement. After that Luke held his tongue with everyone, even Ashton, and whatever relationship they once had was slowly but surely disappearing into the void.

After two years of keeping his distance from Ashton, Luke had no idea what the boy felt about him now. Maybe Luke was just unbelievably stupid for signing this contract? He hadn't spoken to Ashton for two goddamn years and now he's here stepping on Ashton's toes.

All the odds leaned to Ashton not being the greatest fan of his new teammate, and Luke didn't know how to feel about it.

"So, is there anything else we need to discuss before I head off? Just know I'm taking the flight back to London tomorrow afternoon. I can't babysit you ever day of the week" Tom joked, making Luke glance up at him with a hesitant smile.

"There is one thing you could help me with before you leave"

"Absolutely. What's the matter?"

Luke sat up straight in his seat and cleared his throat before giving Tom a tight smile. "Could you give me the addresses to where my teammates live? Preferably the goalkeeper"

**

"I talked to you mom last night, apparently she was at the game last night and didn't tell me"

Ashton smiled as he watched Michael's face on the screen of his phone, his best friend's voice sounding hoarse through the audio of FaceTime. Ashton kept his phone in front of him as he walked into the kitchen and opened his fridge, easily taking out a bottle of beer and popped the cap.

"Yeah I know. She and the hubby are exploring Germany. She has your game schedule all figured out, you'll probably see more of her" he answered and brought the tip of the bottle to his lips to take a sip. He sighed out in content.

"She's skipping your games to see mine. Now who's the favorite son?" Michael spoke and smirked, making Ashton laugh and roll his eyes.

"Don't flatter yourself," he mumbled before falling back on the couch and put the TV on, making sure the sound was off so he could hear every word his best friend was saying. "When are you coming to see my games?"

"Soon hopefully. When are you coming to see mine?" Michael retorted and tilted his head to the side daringly. Ashton laughed again.

"Soon, hopefully," Ashton repeated, making Michael chuckle. "I'm missing ya'"

"I miss you too, brother. But Australia meets is coming up. If you were to accept their offers you could actually spend some quality time with me"

"Who says they're going to offer me again? I've been turning them down for the last 4 years, they should be fed up with me by now"

"Everyone's fed up with you. I'm fed up with you but I'm still here, often begging you of things" Michael said and shrugged before taking a bite of what looked like a sandwich.

Ashton rolled his eyes affectionately. "Whatever. If they were to ask me again I'd actually think about it this time. For you, that is"

"Well, I'm flattered," Michael spoke sarcastically before letting his eyes study Ashton through the screen quietly. "I know we talked about it like 10 minutes ago but you never gave me any real answers. So what about this Luke thing, huh? You two are gonna play in the same fucking team?"

Ashton sighed and ran a hand over his face in frustration. "According to the coach and the media, it seems that we are"

"Wow, it's like God seeks to fill absolute bullshit drama in your life all the time. It's great" Michael said and laughed, making Ashton roll his eyes.

"Fuck off," he shot back, but his voice was nothing but calm. "I promised coach that whatever was going on between me and Luke would not be getting in the way if what's on the pitch"

"Alright," Michael said slowly and nodded his head before speaking again, "So what is going on between you and Luke?"

"You tell me. I haven't spoken to him or seen the guy in two years. At this point I think you know him better than I do"

"Well, then we don't know him at all because I don't know shit about him except that he's tall, blonde, and fucks guys" Michael said and shrugged, making Ashton look at him in amusement.

"Everyone knows that" Ashton said and took another gulp of his cold beer.

"Yeah, you made sure of that, didn't you?" Michael asked with a tint of teasing in his voice.

Ashton sighed again. "Do you think he'll keep a grudge against me about that? I didn't even out him. He kissed me back, it's more his fault than mine. And the guy is still not out, even though he had the greatest time to come out to everyone. God, I hate him"

"Yeah okay, you tell yourself that" Michael said and laughed mockingly, ignoring the glare Ashton sent him his way.

Before Ashton could comment on his friend's comment, the door to his house knocked, causing him to furrow his eyebrows in confusion. It was 9:30 and his did not expect company at this time of the hour.

"Hey, someone's at the door, I need to get going" Ashton spoke and took another quick gulp of his beat before standing up from the couch.

"Alright, that's fine. Talk to you tomorrow?" Michael answered.

"Always. I love you"

"Love you too. Bye" Michael spoke before they ended the call. Ashton carelessly threw his phone down on the couch before making his way over to the door. Without making sure there was no unknown person banging on his door, he opened it and stilled his movements when his eyes met a pair of familiar blue ones.

"Hey" Luke said after a moment of silence between them, his voice coming out more like a breath of air.

"Um, hey" Ashton answered and furrowed his eyebrows slightly when keeping his eyes locked with the blonde. His hand was still holding onto the door handle to make sure he wouldn't just fall because of the unexpected company.

"I'm sorry for just showing up unexpectedly" Luke apologized and smiled small- awkwardly- as he shifted his weight from leg to leg as he stood.

"You mean showing up here or you showing up on the team? Because they were both pretty unexpected" Ashton answered and leaned carelessly against the open door.

"Yeah, about that.." Luke started and laughed breathlessly, "Would you like to talk? I wanted to speak to you face to face about all of this"

Ashton hesitated as he watched the blonde. He didn't know if he was ready to get all into it with Luke once again. It never ended happily, always ended up complicated, and Ashton didn't know if he was up for it this time.

But then again; they had to spend the next years sharing the same pitch, so Ashton kind of had to at least learn how to talk to Luke again. Now when the blonde actually wanted to talk, that was.

"Alright" he finally answered and stepped to the side to let Luke slowly pass him. Luke gave him a hesitant smile before entering his home, looking around in curiosity.

"This is not a bad home. You're quite the favorite, aren't you?" Luke asked and chuckled as he turned to look at Ashton but let his smile drop when watching Ashton lean against the closed door while looking down at his feet.

"I guess. My five minutes of fame is probably over now though when 'Golden Boy' is the new real deal" Ashton lamely joked, making Luke purse his lips in silence.

"When were you thinking of telling me we'd wear the same jerseys for the next three years?" Ashton asked, interrupting the uncomfortable silence.

"Um, now?" Luke answered and gave Ashton an awkward grin, making Ashton look at him unamused. "No, I- I don't know, alright? I didn't know how you'd feel about me calling after two silent years and dropping that bomb on you"

"Yeah, you're right. It was better that you dropped the bomb on live international TV instead" Ashton spoke and shrugged before walking back into the living room. Luke ran a hand through his hair and sighed under his breath before following behind.

"I know I should have told you everything after the history we've had, but speaking to you seemed like not the best idea"

"Were you planning on never speaking to me ever, then? How's that gonna work out with us being in the same team?" Ashton asked and raised one eyebrow up in question before reaching for his beer and taking a sip. Luke watched him from where he was standing, not knowing if it was okay for him to sit down or not.

"Well, I'm here now, aren't I? And I'm trying to speak to you but you're making it quite difficult" Luke commented.

"Oh, am I? I'm sorry, I just thought not cutting off our connection two years ago would make this situation here a bit easier" Ashton shot back, making Luke roll his eyes.

"I have a life, Ashton. I kind of need to live it separately away from you. Especially since we lived in two different countries"

"I'm just saying that you give me hope and then you shatter it. You're an inconsiderate person and I don't feel like getting in to that again" Ashton muttered and took another swig of his beer.

"Inconsiderate?" Luke repeated, growing slightly irritated. "You kissed me, in front of people! I wasn't out and I didn't want to be out either. I needed space to think things through, and I especially needed space from you since that was all your fault"

"Please, if it was that bad then you wouldn't have kissed back. You were sending me mixed signals"

"I had a boyfriend!"

"Well, you don't anymore!" Ashton exclaimed, raising his eyebrows and looking at Luke as silence laid upon them. Luke parted his lips and took a breath to start talking but stopped to think his words through.

"No, I don't," he answered, stating the obvious, and shrugged, "But that doesn't mean I'm here to get fool around with you. We're not eighteen anymore, I'm trying to be mature here, Ashton. I'm come in peace. I wanted to say that I'm sorry and I hope we can work things out. I mean, we kind of have to now when we're on the same team"

Ashton looked down at the beer in his hand and suddenly felt a bit embarrassed for drawing his own childish conclusions. He and Luke both knew that what they had had been over years ago, and what they were starting now was a whole new chapter. That chapter could easily start with them being friends again. If Ashton would stop jumping to conclusions and labeling Luke as a some kind of runaway bride, that was.

"You want a beer?" Ashton asked after moments of silence, standing up and walking over to the fridge before Luke had even answered.

"I, um, sure. Yeah." Luke stuttered in surprise of Ashton's sudden mood-change.

Ashton handed him the bottle and studied Luke's matured looks before pursing his lips and holding his hand out for a handshake. Luke looked at him with a confused expression before slowly taking Ashton's hand in his.

"Welcome to Madrid. It's fucking insane, you won't last a day" Ashton spoke and grinned as he shook Luke's hand.

Luke snorted out a laugh before pushing Ashton away and rolled his eyes with an amused look on his face. Ashton chuckled and watched Luke take a mouthful of his beer, and he thought that maybe this wouldn't be such a bad thing after all.

**

The clock was getting closer to 11:30 and the living room table was scattered with beer bottles and whatever kind of junk food Ashton had in his home. Which to his defense wasn't much.

Luke was sitting on the edge of the couch, moving his fingers over the controller quickly as he was getting closer and closer to the goal.

"Oh! Would you look at that!" he cheered loudly when easily getting past one of Ashton's players. Ashton rolled his eyes at the intoxicated blonde before continuing to press the buttons on his own controller.

"Oh! Would you look at that!" Ashton repeated, his voice teasing as the goalkeeper on the screen easily saved Luke's shot. "Irwin doesn't get anything past him"

Ashton grinned big when he rolled the ball into play again, still thinking it was quite surreal to see himself on FIFA. And he didn't look that bad either.

"Shut up, it's only been like 2 minutes" Luke mumbled before sighing as Ashton's team got a free-kick. The camera zoomed in on the animated version of Luke as he argued with the referee.

"They need to put you on Real for next year's edition" Ashton said as he took a sip of his lost-count-of-how-many beers before kicking the ball towards the goal.

"Yeah. I hope they get my hair right this time," Luke commented and furrowed his eyebrows when the referee gave a yellow card to one of his fellow Arsenal teammates. Or, now ex-teammates.

Ashton snorted at Luke's comment before cheering as he finally scored. Luke groaned loudly before throwing his controller away and fell back on the couch.

"You're cheating" he muttered as the other boy chuckled contently. Ashton paused the game and fell back on the couch as well, ignoring the game as turned to look at Luke.

Luke looked the same as he had been doing last time Ashton saw him, but he was older now. Older in his looks and older in his mind, and Ashton notice it. Ashton was older as well, he had matured one hell of a lot during the past few years. He kind of had to when being the media's favorite 'anything-other-than-heterosexual' boy, while also being the mentally unstable boy. Signing a new contract and being seen as one of the top three best goalkeepers during Champions League kind of took a toll on him. But in a good way.

But even though he was 21 years old and had achieved most of his life-goals already, being around Luke made Ashton feel like he was 18 again. When his career hadn't even started and his heart was beating loudly each day when waiting for it to start. The days when he was happy without the sport.

Ashton felt happy now, and it was Luke who made him feel that way.

"I can't believe you've won Champions League" Luke breathed out after a while of comfortable silence. Ashton followed Luke's eyes and stopped when seeing his medal hanging off the shelf by the side of the TV. Ashton smiled when watching it. It always made him smile.

"I know. I still can't believe it either"

Luke studied the prestigious medal before turning on his side to face Ashton. "How does it feel to win?"

"It's indescribable. You have to experience it yourself to know just how it feels. Words can not describe it" Ashton answered softly, his voice slowly but surely falling into a whisper.

"Hope I'll get to experience it" Luke whispered back, mostly to himself than to anyone else.

"Is that why you signed with the winners; so you could maybe get a chance to win yourself?" Ashton asked and smiled teasingly, making Luke chuckle hoarsely. He was tired and a bit drunk.

"Yes, that's exactly why," Luke spoke sarcastically before turning to look up at the ceiling mindlessly. "You're talking like Arsenal won't win the title"

"I'm not saying anything. It you who's leaving them behind after not even getting through Round 16" Ashton said, making Luke turn to punch him in his chest. Ashton laughed.

"Fuck off" Luke cursed but couldn't help but laugh as well. His eyes continued traveling over to a framed photo, making him smile. "How's Michael?"

"Good. You know him, he keeps his positive spirit. I think Germany is doing him good," Ashton answered and Luke nodded. "How's Calum?"

"Good, I think. It was kind of hard to keep in touch for a while, but I think we'll get better on it now when we won't see each other as often anymore. It's weird to leave him behind, in a way. He's still in England and I'm suddenly in Spain" Luke shrugged.

"Yeah, I know," Ashton spoke and nodded his head. "Though, I talk to Michael every day. Always have done"

Silence laid upon them again, and Ashton could hear Luke's heavy breathing before the blonde spoke up again. "I'm sorry for never calling you. I told you I needed space, but I was just scared. I didn't want people to know. I'm still scared. I think I always will be"

"It's okay. I kind of figured" Ashton answered, his voice soft as he looked at Luke with careful eyes.

Luke nodded and bit his bottom lip before letting out a breathless laugh and shook his head. "It's pathetic, isn't it? I'm 21 years old and I'm still afraid of what people might think of me. Or, I don't give a fuck about what people think about me, but I'm scared as hell of what people might think of my sexuality"

Ashton frowned slightly before shaking his head. "I think that's human"

Luke turned to look at him, his blue eyes were so much deeper in the dark room. "You could do it, though. You weren't scared"

"Well, I'm barely human" Ashton said and shrugged, making Luke breathe out a soft laugh.

"True" Luke said and smirked, making Ashton scoff before reaching out to punch Luke's shoulder. The blonde laughed challengingly before doing the same to Ashton, hitting the boy hard against his ribs.

"Ow, fuck" Ashton cursed before sitting up to clench his fist and jabbed one of his knuckles against the nerve just below Luke's shoulder, making the blonde whine out childishly.

"Asshole" Luke mumbled and rubbed the skin Ashton had just abused.

"Whatever, Barbie" Ashton spoke up, making Luke lift his eyes to look at him. Ashton smirked small, making Luke shake his head and breathe out a laugh before letting his gaze fall again.

"Fuck," Luke groaned all of a sudden, making Ashton raise his eyebrows in surprise. "I'm gonna be hungover on my first ever practice with the team"

"Bienvenido al mundo real. El mundo de un ganador" Ashton spoke before sitting up in his seat and started to collect all the empty beer bottles.

"I'm sorry, what?" Luke said and looked at Ashton with a clueless expression, making the honey-blonde smirk.

"You gotta catch up on your Spanish if you want to be a part of the team"

Luke rolled his eyes as he watched Ashton walk over to the kitchen and placed all the bottles on the counter. "Whatever you say, 'el payaso'"

Ashton snorted at the nickname and lazily cleaned up the kitchen before looking at the clock on the wall. "Are you sleeping here, or..?" he asked as he glanced over to Luke who was still sprawled out on the couch.

"What?" Luke asked and looked up to meet Ashton's eyes before looking at the clock as well, noticing the time of the hour. Seeing as it was his first practice tomorrow, and he was already at minus with being slightly drunk, he really had to go home and sleep it all off.

"No, I should leave," Luke finally spoke and nodded his head before standing up. His limbs cracked satisfyingly as he stretched his body out before he picked up his jacked that was draped over the back of the couch. "Probably best if I get used to sleeping in my new bed"

"Yeah" Ashton answered and nodded his head as he watched Luke put on his shoes. He followed Luke out to the hallway and both stopped as the reached the front door. Ashton stood still and put his hands in his back pockets as he watched Luke adjust his jacket.

"So, tonight was fun," Luke started and smiled small, "Thanks for hearing my out and being so cool about everything. I don't deserve it, but thanks"

"I'm pretty sure you deserve it. Otherwise I wouldn't have done it" Ashton answered and chuckled softly, making Luke let out a breathless laugh.

"Alright, thanks," Luke said and held out his hand for Ashton to shake. "For tonight and everything. You made my nerves calm down a whole lot for tomorrow morning"

Ashton looked at Luke's hand a raised an eyebrow before laughing and shaking his head. "You know we can hug right? Just because we're only friends doesn't mean we have to act all macho"

"Oh, yeah. Sorry" Luke spoke and smiled awkwardly before letting his hand drop to his side again. Even though Ashton's statement had been said, none of the boys took the first initiative. Luke hesitated from where he stood, looking down at his hands as Ashton was watching him while moving awkwardly in his spot.

"Okay so, bye" Ashton breathed out a laugh before finally taking a step forward and wrapped an arm around Luke.

"Yeah, bye" Luke answered and wrapped his own arm around Ashton, making the hug as platonic, awkward, and stiff as it possibly could. They'd have to work on that one, Ashton thought.

"Thanks again" Luke said as they had pulled away from the sad excuse of a hug, and smiled politely at the other boy.

"No problem. I'll see you tomorrow. Get a good night sleep" Ashton said and smiled stiffly. He had no idea why everything got so awkward all of a sudden.

"Yeah, I will" Luke spoke and reached for the handle of the front door but stopped to look at Ashton as he reached it. It looked like he wanted to say something but didn't know what.

"Anything wrong?" Ashton asked and let his eyes study Luke's ocean-blue ones.

"No, I-" Luke started but stopped before smiling once again and opened the front door. "Nothing. Thanks again. I'll see you tomorrow"

"Yeah," Ashton breathed and nodded his head as he watched Luke slowly exit his house, "Bye"

With one last wave, Luke looked at Ashton before turning around to walk down the pathway over to his car. Ashton watched him for a few seconds before having to force himself to close the door. As it was closed he leaned his back against it and closed his eyes shut tightly, scrunching his face up before groaning under his breath.

"Fuck, fuck, fuck" he mumbled and banged his head lightly against the door before letting out a heavy sigh.

He stood there for a second or two before pushing his body away from the door and made his way over to the messy living room again. He best down and picked up the controller Luke had thrown away when there was a knock on the door again.

Ashton furrowed his eyebrows and dropped the controller on the table before walking back to the door and opened it. He wasn't very surprised when seeing Luke standing there, since he was the only person nearby, but his eyebrows still rose when seeing the blonde shuffling awkwardly on the steps.

"Hi" Ashton breathed out and it was stupid to greet him that way since they had just said goodbye only a minute ago, but it was the only thing he could word out.

"Hi, um," Luke started and ran a hand through his hair before laughing lightly. "Shit, this is stupid. I just thought- Never mind. Fuck, I'm gonna leave now, for real. Bye"

Ashton bit his lip when watching Luke speak and didn't dare to think his actions through before grabbing Luke's jacket and stopped him from walking away. Instead he tugged him inside and shut the door closed as he pressed Luke up against it and held Luke trapped with his hands on either side of his head.

They were both breathing heavily as they looking into each other's eyes, and Ashton didn't know if it had gone an hour or a millisecond before Luke placed a hand at the back of Ashton's head and brought him in for a wanted and suffocating kiss.

Ashton couldn't help the moan that rose in his throat at just the mere touch of Luke's lips on his, but he didn't mind it as Luke fisted his hand in his hair and brought him closer.

It was rough, needy, messy and chaotic, and it felt so fucking good.

Luke slid his tongue into Ashton's mouth as Ashton moved so one of his legs were placed between Luke's. He could feel the blonde growing harder each second, and Ashton felt slight relief that he wasn't the only one who needed this more than ever.

"Fuck, I've missed this" Luke panted as he let his hands travel down to the waistband of Ashton's jeans. One hand cupped Ashton's crotch and started palming him in the rhythm of Ashton's movements, while the other messily tried to unbutton the jeans.

"I've missed you" Ashton murmured breathlessly as he left wet kisses from the corner of Luke's mouth, down his jaw and neck.

"Ah, I've missed you too" Luke moaned when Ashton licked over his jaw and moved forward so their hard-ons would meet.

Luke brought his hands back up to Ashton's hair and tugged now and then while Ashton thrusted forward, making their clothed members rub together. Luke moaned again and tilted his head back to lean it against the door.

"Fuck. Bedroom" Luke managed to speak through breathy pants. His nails clawed into Ashton's skull then the pleasure was getting too good. They needed a bed. Now.

"Too far" Ashton breathed before going back to kiss Luke. His teeth bit down on Luke's bottom lip, making the blonde tremble.

"Couch" Luke ordered and Ashton nodded before taking a hold of Luke's hips and blindly led him over to the living room. Without letting their lips part, they stumbled through the hallway and ended up in the kitchen instead. As soon as Ashton's hip met the kitchen counter, he decided that that would have to do.

He bent down slightly and gripped the back of Luke's thighs to pick him up and place him in the counter. Their lips moved like nothing could get in their way, while hands touched every inch of each body. Luke's legs wrapped around Ashton's waist, bringing him impossibly closer to himself.

Ashton's hands traveled from Luke's thighs up under Luke's shirt, feeling the warn skin underneath the palm of his hands. Luke shivered at the pleasurable touch, sucking on Ashton's bottom lip as he moaned breathlessly.

"You want to do this?" Ashton asked, his breath hot against the did did Luke's neck that he was trying not to leave marks on.

"When have I not?" Luke answered and smiled against Ashton's lips before gasping when Ashton squeezed his thigh harshly. Ashton smiled as well before stepping away just enough so he could take off his shirt.

Luke held onto the counter as he let his eyes glide over Ashton's muscular chest. He caught his bottom lip between his teeth before reaching for his own t-shirt and pulled it off. Ashton breathed out heavily at the sight before stepping forward to attach their lips again.

Hands fumbled with buttons and belts before pants were thrown off and more skin was able to be touched. Ashton hands ran up and down Luke's thighs as Luke let his nails draw on the skin of Ashton's back. Moans got louder as the final pieces of clothing were off, and nothing was in the way of their hot bodies.

"Lube and condoms are in the bedroom" Ashton panted as Luke's hand was wrapped around his member and slowly moved up and down.

"Then go get them" Luke whispered before nibbling on Ashton's earlobe.

"Too far" Ashton breathed, repeating his words from before. Luke laughed breathlessly.

"We don't need it," Luke murmured and ran his fingers up Ashton's chest. "You better fucking be clean though"

"Your doubts hurts me" Ashton spoke mockingly before pushing Luke down and bending his leg to hold onto Luke's ankle. Without any words Ashton brought two fingers to Luke's lips, silently waiting before Luke parted them and started lathering them up with his own saliva.

Ashton watched him with his lip caught harshly between his teeth. Seconds passed and soon Ashton couldn't just wait anymore. He pulled his fingers away, making Luke's lips part and shine irresistibly from the saliva.

Preparation was always dull in Ashton's opinion, but seeing Luke squirm underneath him and let out those sounds he hadn't heard in so long, made Ashton think preparation was as great as the actual sex. Ashton hadn't realized just how much he had truly missed the blonde, but it was all so clear now.

"Fuck. Want you" Luke panted and that was enough for Ashton to stop what he was doing and pull Luke closer.

The kitchen counter was cold, the exact opposite to Ashton's skin, and it made the pleasure even greater as he finally entered Luke with a throaty moan. Luke held onto his shoulder harshly and whined quietly, making Ashton stop half way and breathe heavily in the crook of Luke's neck.

"Shit. I gotta move, Luke" Ashton cursed and had to grit his teeth to keep his composure.

"Wait," Luke gasped and breathed in and out heavily through his nose before slowly easing his grip on Ashton's shoulders and nodded his head. "Go"

Ashton didn't hesitate before moving again, slowly pushing in further in until he was fully inside. Both boys breathed heavily, their bodies pressed together and their lips shivering as everything stood still for just a moment. Luke reached out and slid his fingers between Ashton's, holding his hand in his before the honey-blonde moved his face away from the crook of Luke's neck and placed his lips on his.

Ashton started to move, his free hand gripping onto Luke's hip to keep him in place, while the other hand clutched onto Luke's tightly. Luke squeezed Ashton's hand back and moaned loudly at the longing pleasure he felt as Ashton started to move in a steady rhythm.

Both boys knew they had missed each other at some point of the time being apart, but at the moment, being as intimate as one could get, they then realized just how much they actually wanted and needed each other.

"Oh my god" Luke moaned and threw his head back when Ashton hit that special bundle of nerves. "Yes, fuck, yes"

Ashton didn't speak as he picked up his pace. He was strictly focused on the amazing pleasure he felt as he moved quickly. His breath was caught in his throat as he was getting closer and closer to the finish. Luke seemed to be getting closer as well judging by the whiny moans he was releasing.

"How long?" Ashton breathed before biting down on his bottom lip to keep himself collected.

"Soon" Luke breathed and tugged at Ashton's hair as he gasped once again.

Ashton didn't know if it was seconds or minutes after, but at the end he couldn't keep himself anymore, and came with a loud and throaty moan.

Luke moaned as well as stayed still as he panted heavily. After Ashton had caught his breath he reached out and wrapped his hand around Luke's hard member. It took him a few simple caresses before Luke was coming as well.

"Fuck" Ashton breathed as he collapsed on top of Luke.

"Wow" Luke sighed before letting out a laugh. Ashton smiled against Luke's skin before laughing as well.

Luke nudged his chin against Ashton's forehead, making Ashton raise his head to look down at him with an exhausted smile. Luke smiled back, his blue eyes, studying Ashton's sweaty face and just knew he had never fallen out of love.

"Welcome to Madrid, Barbie" Ashton whispered and Luke laughed before bringing Ashton down for a sweet kiss.

**

After creating endless of speculations after the romantic show they put on years ago during a Champions League meet, Ashton Irwin (21) and Luke Hemmings (21) have finally confirmed that they are indeed a couple. Two months in to his contract with Real Madrid C.F, Hemmings went out with the news that he is gay, and proud to be so. Only a week later did the two young stars come out with their relationship.

Seeing as the two young men are the first same-sex couple professional football has ever had, the news did catch a lot of attention. People seem to have different opinions on it, but according to Irwin the couple do not care about outsiders' opinions.

He says; "I've been honest with my sexuality since my career started, and I've had some shit thrown at me from time to time, but that what makes me grow as a person and as a player. Whoever I'm attracted to and whoever I love should not be other people's business. The world will still spin the same when I love a woman or a man."

More people were surprised from the news from Hemmings when he confirmed that he was only attracted to men and had always been. He took the time to post a long message on his Instagram, laying everything out for everyone to see.

"When I was 10 years old, I was a dreamer. I had my whole life planned out for me and I knew just what I wanted. Already at that young age I knew I wanted to play football for the rest of my life. I knew what I wanted, and that included the partner I'd have. I've known I was gay since I was 10 years old, and I've been scared ever since. It's a huge thing to realize about yourself, yet it's the best thing to know. Knowing your sexuality helps you know yourself, and I'm forever greatful that I've gotten to know myself so early in life.

"But with being young and vulnerable comes the bad confidence. I wish I would have been prouder of myself and been braver to come out in my younger years, but I didn't. I always blamed it on an unsupportive father and people talking behind my back, but there's never any excuses. No one should ever keep you from being who you are. No one should keep you from loving who you want.

"I've been hiding away for 11 years now, and I'm finally able to say that I'm out, and I've never been happier. With the support of my loving boyfriend, my amazing friends, and my incredible teammates, I know for sure that whatever bullshit people throw at me, nothing will get past my happiness. I'm in love and I'm free. I want to stand proud and I want to be a role model for other boys and girls out there. Be happy, it gets you the farthest in life."

Hemmings got positive critique on his post and boyfriend Irwin posted a shot of the two of them as another confirmation of their relationship.

A few teammates in Real Madrid have spoken up as well, commenting supportive words on the young teammates' relationship. Coach Zidane commented as well, saying their relationship is a world outside football, but their love is a promising future for the sport.

Even though there is support and there is the opposite, Hemmings' comical response to it all was actually everything the world ever needed after such explosive news; "I'm quite sure being gay makes me a better player than everyone else. I have a lot more knowledge of balls."

With that being said, we do hope Hemmings and Irwin will live happily ever after. Football could use a fairytale ending.

~ THE END ~