#kcc x reader

“Oh, c’mon,” she whined, rushing to catch up with you. “I was just joking around.” You ignored her, barging through the door and out into the summer sunshine. “It’s not that deep, lighten up. It’s just a phone call home,” she called after you. 

“Whatever,” you huffed, dismissing her entirely. 

“Are you mad at me?” She said in that teasing voice that made your heart flutter annoyingly. 

“Yes,” you deadpanned, beginning your walk home. 

You could tell it had shocked her a little. You weren’t really paying too much attention though - your head brewing with anxiety at the prospect of what awaited you at home. 

“Wait!” She was running now, tugging on your arm to slow you down. “Seriously?” She asked in a tone you had never really heard from her before. 

“Yes.” You weren’t looking at anywhere but her. “You might not give a flying fuck but I do. I have to. The club won’t take girls who piss about. They made that clear. Rugby is about discipline and order.” You echoed your coaches words. “Your talent will get you far in football, Ky.” You sighed softly. “I can’t rely on that with rugby.” 

You were fairly sure you stopped breathing when her fingers intertwined with yours. You both waited a moment. 

“I’m sorry.” You both said at the same time, drawing a funny huff from you and an amused smile from her. 

“Why are you sorry?” Kyra asked, her dark eyes wide. “I’m the one who keeps landing you in trouble.” 

“I was rude.” You shrugged. 

“No,” she took a step closer. “You weren’t.” You swallowed, feeling a blush rise to your cheeks as you realised just how close she was. Not for the first time, you wondered if she tasted like the way she smelled. Warm vanilla with a hint of … something you couldn’t quite place. 

“I never noticed you have a scar on your cheek.” Carefully, her free hand traced the faint line that rested just under your eye. 

“From a scrum.” You were whispering now, eyes locked on Kyra’s lips. “A girl hadn’t trimmed her nails.” 

“Sounds painful.” You just shrugged.

“I really am sorry that I keep getting you in trouble,” she whispered, so quiet you almost didn’t hear her. “It’s … I just …” You had never seen Kyra at a loss for words. “It’s just sometimes I think that that’s the only way I can get your attention.” 

Your heart froze and then sped up all at once. 

“The only way you look at me for longer than a second is if I piss you off. Plus you look cute when you’re angry.” She was smiling shyly now, eye eyes tracing your features, her body still impossibly close. 

“You always have my attention, Ky.” 

The rest was history. You hadn’t kissed her that day. No matter how much you had wanted to. You hadn’t even asked her to be your girlfriend or ask her to just simply hang out. But you had eventually. 

It was after your call up to the Wallaroos. She was making waves in the Young Matildas, finally being recognised by the senior squad for her talent. She was the first person you told. Before your parents, before your coaches, before anyone. It wasn’t anything dramatic or full of fanfare. You had told her you had the call. She had cupped your face. You had leant down. She had reached onto her tiptoes. You weren’t sure who kissed who technically. 

It was a no-brainer for Kyra to move to Sweden. You had never been. Rugby wasn’t big there, so you never had a reason to go outside of a holiday that you would never have been able to afford anyway. But then, suddenly, there was Kyra. She insisted you come to her as much as you could. You were being noticed by English clubs more and more now you had cemented yourself in the national team and the offers were looking tempting. You had to admit. The quick flight from London to Stockholm was far more enjoyable than the over-a-day-long trip that usually left you tired and sore. 

You had signed for the Quinns on a foggy day in April. 

Kyra had called the moment you texted her the news. Her voice was groggy but the excitement in it was unmistakable. You could picture her smile, that same crooked grin that hadn’t changed since high school. She was proud of you. She always had been.

“London, huh?” she’d teased. “Guess I’ll have to get used to you being all fancy now.”

You’d rolled your eyes even though she couldn’t see it. “Yeah, right. You still owe me dinner for missing my debut against France.”

Kyra laughed softly, that warm, lazy sound that never failed to calm you. “You mean the debut where you got sin-binned for tackling someone twice your size?”

“She deserved it,” you’d argued, smiling despite yourself. “And you loved it.”

There was a pause. Just a second too long to be casual.

“I did,” she whispered.

That was the thing about the two of you. The distance never really dulled it. No matter the miles or the time zones, it was like muscle memory. The rhythm of being hers, in every way that counted, was carved into you.

When she came to London a few months later, everything slotted back into place. You’d met her at Heathrow, both pretending not to notice the cameras or the fans who recognised her, or you, first. She’d dropped her bags and ran straight into you, laughing when you caught her, breathless and bright, like nothing in the world could go wrong.

You’d kissed her properly then. No nerves, no hesitation. Just months of wanting and missing, finally finding home again.

For a while, life made sense. Early training sessions, weekend matches, FaceTime calls from hotel rooms, and those rare nights when you could fall asleep with her hair tickling your chin. You didn’t need much more than that.

But the world had a way of testing you. Injuries. Media scrutiny. Her endless travel schedule with the national team. Your travel. Your pressures. The little gaps that began to widen until even texts felt delayed, forced, heavy.

You weren’t falling out of love. That wasn’t it. You were just... running on empty. Both of you.

The night before she left for another international camp, she’d found you sitting on the edge of your bed, staring at nothing.

“Hey,” she said softly, crouching in front of you. “Talk to me.”

You’d swallowed hard. “I just miss you even when you’re here.”

Kyra’s eyes had softened. She reached for your hand, tracing small circles on your skin. “We’ll figure it out. We always do.”

And figure it out you did. Or well Ian Wright did for you. In the form of a shiny new contract for Kyra. 

So now you were sat in your joint flat in the middle of London. With your joint TV showing some random show as you lay, tangled up, on your joint couch.

“I have a question.” Kyra announced, her voice muffled in your hoodie as she rested her head on your chest.

You grunted your response, almost half asleep from how warm you were. She was like the perfect weighted blanket, oozing out heat and that soft, warm scent that was so uniquely her.

“Come to the game on Sunday?”

That was the only downside of both of you being professional athletes. You were almost never able to see each other’s games. If you were playing, so was she. It sucked, but you made it work, often refusing to look at the scores until you were able to rewatch the match.

It was a big game for Kyra - a place in the final up for grabs, and Renee had promised her a spot in the starting XI.

“Huh?” You were still lagging behind a little, your brain not quite there yet.

“Sunday. The semis. Emirates. Sold out stadium. Starting XI.”

“Yes, I am aware of what’s happening on Sunday, baby.”

Kyra shifted, moving to straddle your hips. “Will you come watch? You’re free, right?”

You blinked at her, trying to fight the smile creeping onto your face. “You checked my fixture list, didn’t you?”

“Maybe,” she said, drawing out the word in that singsong way that told you she definitely had.

You sighed, though there was no real annoyance behind it. “You’re ridiculous.”

“But you love me.” She was grinning now, sitting taller, her hands resting against your chest. “And I really want you there. Please.”

You raised an eyebrow. “You nervous?”

Kyra scoffed immediately, but you caught the flicker in her eyes, the tiny spark of uncertainty that only you ever seemed to notice. “No. Just… you know. It’s a big one. First time I’ll start in front of a full Emirates this season. And I don’t get many minutes anymore so.” 

Your hand came up to cup her jaw, thumb brushing gently over her skin. “You’ll smash it. You always do.”

She leaned into your touch, her eyelids fluttering closed for a second. “Yeah, but I play better when I know you’re watching.”

You felt that familiar tug in your chest. That same stupid, aching love that had followed you since you were teenagers getting yelled at again in maths. She had this way of making even the simplest words feel heavy, important.

“Alright,” you murmured. “I’ll be there.”

Her eyes lit up instantly, wide and bright. “Promise?”

“Promise.”

Kyra grinned like a kid, bouncing slightly where she sat. “You’re gonna love it. Big crowd, big stakes-”

“Big ego,” you teased, laughing when she swatted your chest.

“Shut up,” she said through a laugh. “I’m serious. I want you there. It feels like… I don’t know. It’ll be more … with you there.”

You stared at her for a long moment - the way her hair fell in soft waves around her face, the glint of determination in her dark eyes, the faint freckles that the cameras never seemed to catch.

“Baby,” you said quietly, voice full of love.

Her smile softened. “You’re such a sap.” She rolled her eyes.

It was your turn to scoff now. “Maybe.” You grinned up at her. “But I’m your sap.”

Kyra leaned down and kissed you, slow and lingering, her breath tasting faintly of mint and something sweet. When she pulled back, her forehead rested against yours.

“Good,” she whispered. “Because I’m scoring one for you on Sunday.”

You chuckled. “Make it two, and I’ll wear your kit to training Monday.”

Her laugh filled the room, warm and alive. “Deal.”

The Emirates was loud. Louder than any of your matches ever were. Tens of thousands of people swarmed around you, the sound rolling like thunder through the stands. It was electric - alive in a way that made your heart race that little bit faster.

You could feel the other friends and family watching you, sneaking curious glances when they thought you wouldn’t notice. You didn’t blame them. To them, you were just some stranger sitting stiffly in a hoodie that was far too warm for the occasion, jaw tight and eyes locked on the pitch. 

Despite being with Kyra for years, you’d never really met her teammates or their families. During the regular season, you were just as busy as she was - your own games, your own camps, your own chaos.

“Hello.” A slightly older woman had approached, her tone friendly but cautious, like she wasn’t sure if she was interrupting. You blinked, pulled from your thoughts. You’d been staring down at the pitch, eyes flicking from where Kyra was stretching with her teammates to your phone screen, where your knee was bouncing impatiently against the row of seats in front of you. God, it wasn’t even kick-off yet and you were already nervous enough to be sick.

“Oh, um,” you cleared your throat quickly. “Hi.” You straightened a little, automatically shifting to the side as if you were in her way.

“I don’t think I’ve seen you before,” she said kindly. “Which of the girls are you friends with?”

“Oh, uh, Ky-” you stuttered, your mouth suddenly dry. “Kyra. Kyra Cooney-Cross.” You mumbled the words like a secret, just in case she somehow hadn’t caught the name.

Her face brightened instantly. “Oh, how lovely! She’s such a sweet girl. Mario, Gio, come say hi.” She waved two men over - both of whom eyed you curiously as they approached. You offered a polite, sheepish smile.

“This is…” the woman started, turning to you expectantly.

“Y/N.”

“This is Y/N,” she repeated warmly. “She’s with Kyra.”

“Cool, cool.” The younger man, Gio, you think, grinned, lifting his beer in greeting. “So,” he began, clearing his throat like he was buying time as he came to stand next to you, “how do you know Kyra? Don’t think I’ve seen you around before.”

You hesitated for half a beat. “Oh, um… I’m … she’s my girlfriend.”

His eyebrows rose. “Girlfriend?”

“Yeah,” you nodded, a small smile tugging at your lips. “Going on six years now.”

“Wow.” He gave a low whistle, impressed. “Didn’t realise she’d been off the market that long.”

Mario laughed quietly beside him. “Shows how much attention you pay.”

Gio shrugged, grinning. “Fair point. How come you weren’t at the Champions League final or anything, then? Don’t think I saw you.”

“Yeah,” you admitted, rubbing the back of your neck. “I wasn’t able to go. We had World Cup prep camp.”

That caught his attention. “World Cup?”

“Yeah,” you said with a small, self-conscious shrug. “I play rugby.”

Both men perked up. “No way,” Mario said. “You play in the PWR?”

“Yeah. For the Quins-Harlequins,” you explained. “And the Wallaroos. The Aussie national team.”

“Boo,” Gio teased immediately, grinning. “We’re Saracens fans.”

You huffed a laugh, shaking your head. “Of course you are.”

“Don’t take it personally,” Mario said, nudging his friend. “He boos everyone. It’s a talent, really.”

“Yeah, well,” you shot back lightly, “I’ll remember that next time we thrash you.”

That earned a few laughs from the small group. You felt your shoulders relax, just a little.

“So you’re the mysterious girlfriend,” Carol said with a knowing smile. “I’ve heard your name before. Kyra’s mentioned you once or twice.”

“Only once or twice?” you joked, though your cheeks warmed all the same.

“Oh, maybe more,” she teased. “She talks about you a lot, actually. Always smiling when she does.”

You didn’t know what to say to that, so you just smiled softly and glanced back at the pitch. The players were warming up now, and even from a distance you could pick out Kyra’s figure instantly - goofing around yet had that familiar fierce determination etched into her movements. You felt a lump form in your throat, a mix of nerves and pride.

“She looks good,” Mario said, following your gaze.

“Yeah,” you murmured. “She always does.”

The older woman reached out, giving your arm a gentle pat. “You must be very proud of her.”

You nodded, unable to take your eyes off the pitch. “More than she knows.”

If you thought the atmosphere pre-match was intense, you were proved wrong after the final whistle. It had been a tight match, ball rocketing from end to end, countless of almosts from both teams and what felt like a thousand hours of extra time. 

Kyra had stayed true to her word, sending two goals rippling into the back of the net. 

“Kyra,” Alessia called, waving her friend over to her. “Who is that?” 

Kyra followed one of Alessia’s perfectly manicured nails. 

You were standing in between Alessia’s dad and one of her brothers. At some point during the match, you had taken your hoodie off, revealing the Australia shirt on you had underneath. Her Australian shirt. With her number on the back of it. She couldn’t help the blush that rose over her cheeks. 

“That’s Y/N.” 

“Y/N?” 

“Yeah.” 

“And who is Y/N?” 

Kyra just shurgged, smiling and winking at Alessia before running off. 

You weren’t really paying attention when Kyra entered the family and friends room - you were distracted, looking out at the now-empty Emirates. It was strange, that you, a girl from Queensland, had fallen into this life. From being terrorised by Kyra in the maths classroom to watching her perform on the world’s biggest stage. You were in awe of it all really. 

“Hey, stranger.” Kyra’s teasing voice sounded from behind you as she slipped her arms around your waist. 

“Hey, baby.” You turned, tucking her under your arm and kissing the top of your head. “Good game, lovie.” 

“Scored for you.” Kyra squeezed you tighter. “Twice.” 

“And they were stunning goals too.” 

“So, do you want my match-worn shirt for tomorrow or have you got one already?” She teased, lifting her head to look up at you. 

“Fuck off,” you laughed rolling your eyes. 

“Kyra.” A familiar Aussie accent cut off whatever Kyra was about to say next 

You looked over, two brunettes were standing side-by-side, one more tanned than the other with perfectly highlighted blonde streaks. 

“Yes, Steffy?” 

So that was Steph. You had heard all about the woman Kyra admired the most in football. Her honorary big sister that kept her sharp eye on the younger player now that she was in London. 

“Who is this?” The non-Steph asked. 

“Y/N.” Kyra blinked, smiling cheekily. 

“Hi,” Steph waved awkwardly. 

Non-Steph didn’t acknowledge you. “Yeah, and who is Y/N?” 

“Youse are lookin’ awfully chummy there, mate.” A thick Irish accent cut Kyra off before she could speak. 

“Shut it, Katie,” Kyra huffed. “If you’d let me finish my sentence…” Kyra paused. She always had a flare for the dramatics. “Y/N is my girlfriend.”

Steph blinked. Katie blinked. You blinked.

Then Katie let out a howl that echoed through the family room. “I knew it!” she yelled, smacking Steph’s arm so hard the older woman winced. “I told you she had a missus! Didn’t I, Steph? Didn’t I say there was no way she just disappears after every trainin’ session because she’s ‘catching up on sleep’?”

Steph was rubbing her arm, deadpanned. “Yeah, well, you also said she was secretly seeing a DJ from Hackney, so forgive me if I didn’t take you seriously.”

Kyra groaned, burying her face in your shoulder. “Oh my God, I hate all of you.”

You, meanwhile, were trying very hard not to laugh. “DJ from Hackney?” you whispered to her.

“Don’t,” she muttered into your chest. “They’ll never shut up.”

Steph, to her credit, recovered first. She extended her hand politely, all captain composure. “Nice to finally meet you, Y/N. I’ve heard about you.”

You took her hand, smiling. “Good things, I hope.”

Steph smirked. “Depends who you ask.”

Katie cackled again, already halfway across the room shouting for someone named Leah to come meet “Kyra’s Amazonian rugby girlfriend.”

Kyra groaned louder, hiding her face again. “This is the worst day of my life.”

You snorted. “Pretty sure you just scored two wonder goals at the Emirates.”

“Second worst day,” she muttered darkly, voice muffled against you.

By the time Leah, Alessia, and half the Arsenal squad had been dragged over by Katie, all grinning, all far too amused, Kyra had accepted her fate.

“So,” Leah said, folding her arms and grinning, “you’re the mysterious Y/N we keep hearing about, huh?”

You blinked. “You’ve heard about me?”

“Oh, constantly,” Alessia said, bouncing on her heels. “Usually followed by Kyra sighing dramatically and saying ‘you wouldn’t understand.’”

Steph nodded sagely. “Or blushing at her phone.”

Kyra pointed at all of them, glaring. “Traitors. Every single one of you.”

Leah snorted. “Please. We’re just relieved you didn’t make her up.”

That got a full belly laugh out of you, the kind that made Kyra’s head snap toward you, eyes soft even as her cheeks turned red. You were laughing so hard you barely noticed Katie sidle up beside you.

“She’s been smitten with you for ages,” the Irishwoman whispered conspiratorially. “It’s disgusting, honestly. We had a bet about whether you were real. I owe Russo twenty quid now.”

You laughed again, shaking your head. “Tell her to buy herself something nice.”

Katie grinned, clearly delighted. “Oh, I like you.”

Kyra groaned one final time. “I’m never bringing you to a game again.”

“Sure you are,” you said easily, slinging an arm around her shoulders. “Someone’s gotta wear your shirt.”

That earned you a chorus of “awwws” and a dramatic gag from Katie, who shouted, “God, get a room!” before running away laughing.

Kyra tilted her head up at you, eyes still warm despite her mock pout. “You’re enjoying this way too much.”

You smirked, leaning down just enough for your breath to brush her ear. “A little.”

She tried to fight it, but the grin slipped through anyway – small, bashful, and so perfectly her.

“Fine,” she muttered, poking your chest. “But next time you wear my kit, you’re sitting in the away section.”

You raised an eyebrow. “That a promise or a threat?”

She laughed, shaking her head and stealing a quick kiss. It was brief but certain, the kind that made every teasing voice around you fade into the background.

When she pulled away, she was smiling so wide it almost hurt to look at her. “Both,” she said softly.

You chuckled, brushing a thumb over her cheek. “God, you’re impossible.”

-----

You enter your home to already find a familiar pair of shoes standing in the hallway, your mood instantly shifts to a happier state. “You’re here!” Rushing into your living room to give your best friend a hug. She had used the spare key to surprise you from coming back during your appointment at the club.

Kyra had been in Australia for international break. You were supposed to also go on international break with England, but a minor muscle injury had kept you home this time around.

“Here with all the snacks for a movie night.” She said proudly looking down at the collection of snacks she had gathered, including a few of your favourites she brought back from Australia. “You are the best.” You say as you rip open one of the bags, “See, now this is why I need you in my life.”

Kyra chuckles, “Damn, and here I thought you loved me.” You freeze for a second before snapping back to reality and tossing the bag her way. “Yes, you and your snack sharing.” 

After a quick catch up, you started the movie on Netflix. But the moment Kyra let her head fall onto your shoulder, you stopped paying attention to the movie. If someone were to ask you what happened during it, you had no clue. Kyra fell asleep on your shoulder and you didn’t dare to move.

You let your mind drift to earlier. And here I thought you loved me. If only she knew. She knew you loved her, but definitely not the extent in which you did. You loved her as a friend since, but for a while now you’ve loved her as more, but telling her was not an option. Not only was she your best friend, but she had called you her sister so many times, nothing was ever going to happen. She did not see you the way you saw her, and that was okay. It was just taking longer to get over her than you cared to admit.

The next day you plop down on Steph and Beth’s sofa, “I thought you said this crush would be over soon.” You say with a deep sigh. “Not working out how you imagined?” You roll your eyes at Beth’s question like it wasn’t already obvious it wasn’t working out the way you wanted. “No, she fell asleep on my shoulder, and I kinda just froze and my mind wandered to all the things that I love about her.” 

Steph and Beth share a look before Steph gets up to make a cup of tea. “Oh kid, you’re in deep.” Beth says as she sits down with you. “Listen, there are two ways this can go. Either you tell her how you feel and see where that takes you, or you get over your crush and move on.” 

You sink fully back into the couch, “I know she will never feel the same way, and I don’t want to ruin our friendship by telling her that I feel this way towards her. I will have to get over her eventually, right?” Your fellow Lioness smiles sympathetically, “Yeah.”

The rest of the week is mostly focussed on training for the team. During international break you had stayed at the club, and worked towards being fit again. Luckily it wasn’t a major injury, and you were already able to join the girls out for training with all of them back.

Back in the locker room you overheard Alessia teasing Kyra, you tried to focus on the conversation that was held on the other side of the space, and then when you heard what the teasing was about, your heart broke a little. Kyra was going on a date tonight. You quickly packed your stuff and excused yourself, leaving the training ground as soon as you could.

The next week you mostly just saw Kyra at training, making yourself busy outside of football, so you had excuses to stay away for a bit. But even at training you couldn’t really escape the topic. Some of the girls asked Kyra how her date went, and teased her when her cheeks flushed red after saying the date went amazing. 

Beth nudged your shoulder, “You alright?” She looks over to Kyra short enough for you to know what she’s referring to. “Yeah, I’m okay. It sucks, but it’s not like I thought I had a chance anyways.” Even after saying you were fine, you noticed Beth was keeping an eye on you during the rest of the training session.

Since you didn’t want to lose your friendship with Kyra, but only your crush, you still went to her apartment for your weekly movie night. You took the key to her apartment out of your pocket and opened the door like usual before entering the apartment. What you saw there made you freeze and drop the keys to the floor.

Kyra was sitting on the couch making out with a girl, presumably the one she went on a date with. Both their heads shoot your way, as you quickly pick up the keys and speed walk back to the door, as you apologise under your breath. 

You’re out of the door before Kyra can even reach you. In your car just as fast and out of the street faster than you have ever driven. You keep driving until you arrive at Beth’s and Steph’s again. It didn’t feel like you had driven that far, but your mind had taken you here, and it might be exactly what you needed.

After getting out of the car, you ring their doorbell, and hear the dogs barking on the other side. You were absentmindedly staring at the door, not even realising Steph had opened it until she clapped her hands in front of your face. “Everything alright?” She asks you as she pulls you into the home, not wanting the dogs to get out.

The answer to her question was simply letting your tears run freely. You tell her what happened. “And I know it’s unfair to her, but still it feels the same as heartbreak.” Steph wraps her arms around you, “I know it does, and it’s allowed to hurt.”

Both Myle and Calvin seemed to know something was up. Myle crawled onto your lap, and Calvin laid down at your feet, both wanting to bring you some comfort. 

Your phone buzzed a couple times, all messages from Kyra asking if you were okay since you ran out so quickly. You quickly message her back saying you were sorry for interrupting, before turning your notifications off and closing your phone. She did nothing wrong, you were just going to have to deal with this. Maybe walking in on them would be the best way to get over Kyra.

-----

After winning their first World Cup match, the Matildas do a lap to show their appreciation for all the fans that came out to watch them play. Kyra Cooney-Cross signs a couple posters and jerseys, thanking all she comes across.

Looking out to the crowd, she locks eyes with the most beautiful pair of eyes she’s ever seen. Stuck frozen in her place on the field, she can’t seem to look away. Charli, who decides to jump on her back, makes her look away for just a second to steady her feet again, looks back out to the crowd. Unfortunately for her, those pair of eyes that had her enchanted were no longer there.

On the coach ride back to the hotel, Kyra could not get those eyes out of her head. She wished she could’ve seen who those eyes belonged to. Charli could tell something was bothering her friend, wanting to help Kyra out.

During the quarterfinals against France, Kyra constantly looks to the crowd hoping to spot some familiarity, but having no luck. Not spotting those same eyes during the match didn’t mean Kyra stopped checking, barely paying attention to the game.

The match ended with penalties, Australia winning 7-6, making them move onto the next round.

Lookout out to the crowd, there you were again, Kyra locking eyes with you a second time. She moves her eyes across your face, trying to memorize all of your features, you plump lips to your button nose. You were beautiful. Walking towards where you stood in the stands, Katrina jumps around her excitedly, making Kyra celebrate with Mini.

After the small burst of excitement from both Matildas, she looks back up to the stands, but you were gone. Kyra hoping you would be at the next match.

The semifinals against England ended with the Australians broken-hearted. No one was celebrating, but still made the rounds to thank all of their supporters.

Australia then lost third place to Sweden, putting them down at fourth place with no medal. They were bummed, but they felt accomplished with putting women’s football out there. So, they celebrated with each other, with their fans, with their family.

Even through all the celebrations, Kyra was a bit down, not having seen you anymore the last two of her matches. She didn’t know if she’d ever see you again, kicking herself for not getting to you sooner.

A month later, Kyra moves to the North of London, having been signed by Arsenal. She was excited, especially getting to be on the team with her fellow Aussies.

The first day of training for the new season, she’d been welcomed to the team with open arms. Introducing and being introduced to all the players on the team was all smiles, Caitlin and Steph then walked her to the staff who’d she’d see basically everyday.

Walking Kyra over to where a couple cameras and lenses are splayed out, Steph gestures to a figure sitting on the bench occupied by her laptop.

“And this is our team’s main photographer. The best in the business.

Locking eyes with the photographer, Kyra freezes in her spot. It was you, the girl from the crowd. The girl who she couldn’t stop thinking about the first time she’d seen you. She couldn’t believe it. She finally found you.

“It’s you.” Kyra said in a soft tone, confusing her fellow Aussies.

“Hi.” You give her a shy smile.

Caitlin and Steph noticing the tension between the two of you, leaves you both be.

“I haven’t been able to get you out of my head ever since I saw you back home. Well, my home. Unless you’re also Australian, then it’s your home too.”

Your laugh breaks Kyra out of her rambling.

“I am Australian. Moved here a couple of years ago.”

“Uh, well, I’m Kyra.”

“Y/N. Pleasure to meet you.”

“The pleasure is definitely all mine.”

She shakes your hand noticing you to be shorter than her.

The next few days, you and Kyra often speak, her always finding a way by your side, her reasoning being that she finally found you and wanted to make sure you wouldn’t disappear again. You were fine with it because of all the pictures you get to take of her, also not minding all the time you had spent with her.

About two weeks after officially meeting, Kyra decided to ask you out on a date. You, of course, said yes. So, here you are, putting your finishing touches on, when you hear the sound of your doorbell go off.

“Be there in a second.” Putting your heels on, you open the door to be met by Kyra.

“Wow. You look beautiful.” She said in a breathy tone.

“Thank you.” You give her a shy smile, cheeks heating up. “You look beautiful as well.”

“Um, these are for you.” She holds out a bouquet of flowers. You take them, quickly putting them in a vase. “Ready to go?”

Kyra was the perfect gentlewoman. She opened the passenger door open for you getting in and out of the car. Pulling your seat out for you at the table.

Conversation flowed easily between the two of you at dinner. She told you about her family, her football career and she found out about how you became a sports photographer. You both also found out you were born just a couple of weeks after her, making her older than you.

Dinner was lovely. You insisted to pay half of the bill, which she declined saying that you could get next time. You teased her a bit about there being a next time making her flustered. Not wanting the night to end just yet, you two are taking a stroll around the city.

Seeing you shiver from the cold, she took her blazer off and draped it over your shoulders. Gaining a bit more confidence, she wrapped an arm around your waist, you leaning onto her.

On the drive home, she kept her hand on the gear stick, which you grabbed and intertwined seething your hands on your lap. Parking the car at your apartment building, she walks you to your front door, hands still linked together.

“Thank you for taking me out on a date.” You started.

“Thank you for agreeing to let me take you out. I’d also like do go on more in the future.”

“I’d also like that.”

“Okay. Well, goodnight Kyra.”

“Goodnight Y/N.”

She waits for you to close your front door to start walking back to her car, kicking herself for not getting a kiss. So she walks back to your door, giving it a knock, the door opening instantly.

“I forgot to give you your jacket ba—”

You’re cut off when you feel a pair of lips on yours, hands cupped on both your cheeks. After your initial shock, you deepen the kiss, wrapping your arms over her shoulders, her hands moving down your waist. Kyra pulls away first.

“I couldn’t leave without a kiss.”

“I’m glad you came back.”

You pull her back for a second kiss.

“Would you like to come in?” You ask, resting your forehead on hers.

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It wasn’t long after Kyra joined Arsenal that the two of you had started dating. Everything was going great, you had clicked instantly and loved spending time together. The only problem was that it wasn’t often that you got to spend one on one time with your girlfriend. You lived with Lia, she took you in at sixteen when you moved from Switzerland to play for Arsenal, and Caitlin had done the same for Kyra when she moved from Australia. You loved them both dearly, but they could be very over protective. You’ve had your fair share of sleep overs, but there was always someone else at home, restricting you from doing more than sleeping. So, the two of you had not yet had your first time, and that was totally okay for the both of you. You didn’t need sex for your relationship to work, but it was definitely something that the both of you were ready for.

At training Kyra was slightly more giddy than usual, but you hadn’t thought much of it until she pulled you aside after. “Katie is taking Caitlin to visit Ireland over the weekend.” She raised her eyebrows suggestively. “Oh, how nice of Katie to do so, I hope they will have a great time.” You loved messing with Kyra, so after you said that you turned around to walk away. “Hey wait, do you not want to come over and have the house to ourselves?” She sounded genuinely disappointed, so you quickly turned around again, “Of course I am coming over, dummy. I wouldn’t miss one on one time with my favourite girl.” With that it was settled.

You were both nervous and excited for tonight. If you both felt comfortable tonight it would be your first time together. Sure, over the past few months you had talked about sex and what the both of you liked, but tonight would be the real thing. You put your nerves aside and knocked on her front door. “Hi beautiful.” You greet your girlfriend, she was wearing a pair of football shorts, and one of your hoodies, and your favourite part of her look was her messy bun. “Hi baby.” She beamed back as she pulled you into a hug and into the house. You peck her lips after closing the door behind you. “Wanna watch a movie?” Kyra asks while she pulls you further into the home. “I'd love to.”

It was fully Kyra's intention to finish the movie, and to not just jump right into it, but the way your hand was moving up and down her thigh had her breath hitching. You were fully aware of what you were doing, and were loving the way Kyra reacted to your soft touches. Kyra's eyes were closed when you looked up from your position cuddled into her side. You smirk and lean up, “I thought you wanted to watch this movie.” You whisper into her ear, letting your lips linger. When she simply hums and keeps her eyes closed, you start softly kissing her neck. “Hm baby.” Before continuing, you take a moment to check in with her. “Do you want me to stop?” 

She quickly shakes her head, “No, please keep going.” You don’t need her to tell you twice, so this time you connect your lips with hers, and kiss her passionately. She intertwines her fingers into your hair and pulls you closer to her. “I love you so much.” You say when you both take a second to catch your breath. “I love you too, baby.” You straddle her waist and continue making out. 

Kyra’s hands make their way under your shirt, and your gasp from the contact with her slightly colder hands, gives her the opportunity to deepen the kiss. While she lets her tongue explore your mouth, you let your hands wander down her chest. When your hands meet her boobs, Kyra moans into your mouth. The sounds she was making were like music to your ears. Sure, you had made out a bunch of times, but none of the reactions compared to the soft moans that were filling your ears at the moment. “Is this still okay?” You ask her while your hands are still on her boobs. “More than.” Kyra says with a shaky breath. 

Kyra seemed to be getting more confident too, as her hands explored more of your back, and she let your shirt ride up with it. “Can I take this off?” Your heart was beating out of your chest at this point, your body filled with anticipation. “Please.” You sit up slightly, to give Kyra more room to take off your shirt. She tosses the piece of clothing to the side, and admires your body. “You are so beautiful.” She says before reconnecting your lips. Her hands now roam freely over your bare skin, all of the touching and kissing was turning you on big time, and out of instinct you started rolling your hips. “Fuck that’s so hot.” Kyra groans. You hadn’t realised you were doing it until her reaction, and stopped dead in your tracks. “No, baby, please don’t stop.” Her hands found their way to your hips and guided you back to the movements you were making. 

“Hmm, you’re still wearing too many clothes. It’s not fair when we’re not even.” Kyra chuckles softly at your joking comment. “Well we can’t have that, can we?” Her voice low. You move your hands to the hem of her hoodie, and lift it over her head. The hoodie gets discarded somewhere in the general direction of your shirt, as you let your eyes roam over Kyra’s toned body. “You are absolutely stunning.” Your fingers trace softly over the exposed skin. “Are you sure you want to do this?” You were sure that your continuous questions checking in were annoying, but you wanted to make sure that everything you were doing was alright with your girlfriend. “I am sure, baby. I want you.” Her eyes darkened in a way you hadn’t seen before, the look snapped something in you, and you moved the two of you to lay further down on the bed. Kissing her passionately again, as you let your hands roam free again, this time daring to go lower than before. 

Your fingers were playing with the waistband of her shorts, while your lips had made their way back to her neck. Kyra’s breath hitched when your hand moved slightly under the waistband of her shorts. You were about to ask her if it was okay, but she nodded eagerly before you even got a single word out. After a slight reposition of your body, Kyra arches her hips off of the bed, so you can rid her of her shorts, taking her underwear with it in one swift motion. “Can I?” Kyra asks, eying up your shorts as well. You giggle softly, “Yeah, I can’t make the equal rule just for myself, can I?”  The way that you were joking around, even in such a vulnerable moment, only proved to you further that you wanted to take this step with Kyra. After she takes off your shorts and underwear, you press your lips on hers again. 

Your hands make their way down Kyra’s body again, this time all the way down to her inner thighs, where you move your hand up and down a few times. “Please tell me when you want me to stop at any moment.” Kyra smiles down at you. “I know, baby. Same goes for you.” Once you’re sure that Ky is ready too, you slide one of your fingers through her slick folds. You groan at the feeling of her slick coating your fingers. “You feel so good baby.” You praise before you start slowly circling her clit. Kyra’s head falls back instantly as soft moans leave her lips.

The way her chest was rising and falling, as your fingers were making her feel good had you mesmerised. Kyra was always beautiful, but seeing her like this brought a whole new meaning to the word. You bring your free hand to her breast, while you gently enter her with one finger. “Hm so good.” Kyra groans out as she arches her hips off the bed to meet your slow thrusts, desperately needing more. In response you add a second finger, and when she has settled on the new feeling, you start pumping your fingers into her at a slightly faster pace. The feeling and her moans alone were enough for your own slick to start dripping down your thighs. 

Kyra’s moans get louder as you feel her tightening around your fingers. “I’m gonna-” She tries to speak but her pants interrupt her. “Come for me baby, I’ve got you.” With a few more thrusts of your fingers, she came moaning your name loudly. You gently work her through her high, as your lips meet hers in sweet kisses. “You did so good, darling.” 

You bring your fingers covered in her slick to your mouth and clean them off, this sparked something in Kyra instantly. She flipped the two of you over, just with a bit too much power due to her excitement, so you had to hold her back before she would roll off the bed. Both of you start laughing loudly, and Kyra falls down on top of you. “Wanna try that again?” You tease her. But you’re quickly shut up by her thigh meeting your core. A deep moan escapes your throat, hinting to Kyra that you were very worked up already. Her thigh had met your core accidentally, when she was trying to get up, but now she wanted to make you feel good that way, so she flipped you over again. 

This time, she managed to do it rather smoothly. You were now laying on top of her again, she put her own leg up slightly in between your legs, “Ride my thigh, baby.” Her confident words struck right to your core, and made you move your hips instantly. Kyra brought her hands to your hips, and started guiding you up and down her thigh. Your slick covered her leg instantly, and the pressure to your clit from the movement got you moaning into Kyra’s ear. She was loving the way you were getting yourself off on her thigh, and watched in awe how your face showed the pleasure you were feeling. You were working to your high quickly, by how turned on you got by pleasuring Kyra, and before you knew it you were teetering on the edge of your orgasm. “Let go for me, baby.” Kyra whispered into your ears, and you came instantly. 

You collapse on Kyra after riding out your high. With your face nestled into her neck you softly say, “Sorry that was quick.” You feel slightly embarrassed, but Kyra is quick to reassure you. “That was really hot.” She moves slightly so she can see your face, “That was amazing, baby, and I love you so much.” Kyra pecks your lips a couple of times. “I love you too.” You fall back into her arms, and she holds you tight. Together you enjoy the moment in quietness for a bit. Until you lift yourself up on one of your arms, “Wanna take a shower together to clean ourselves up?” Your girlfriend nods and follows after you, gathering up your disregarded clothes on the way there. 

Showering together was soft and comforting. She washed your body, and you washed hers, and while the shampoo was setting, you held each other. It was such a vulnerable moment between the two of you, but you felt nothing but warmth and comfort. After your shower, you make your way back into the bed, and cuddle up together. The evening continued with some conversations about your first time, wanting to make sure that both of you felt good before, during, and after. And it eventually ended with you falling asleep comfortably in Kyra’s arms. 

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Before Kyra had joined Arsenal you had maybe played against her once or twice, besides that you hadn't really interacted. That all changed when she joined Arsenal. You got to know her as a teammate first. The way she played, the way she interacted with the team, and her passion for the sport that you both love. Then you got to know her as a friend. You truly got to know her then, it was like she came to life once she had found her place within the team.  And it didn't take long before the girl had charmed you with her bright smile, her kind eyes, and her witty personality. 

It had been a few months now since you had asked Kyra to be your girlfriend. Kyra had gone from being pretty much a stranger, to your person, and you couldn't be happier. The two of you talked about going public with your relationship, neither one of you minded the public knowing but also weren't keen on making it a big deal. Your friends and family knew you were together, and some fans had suspicions, though neither one of you had confirmed your relationship to the outside world yet. You never hide your relationship from the world either, you just didn't care what people thought, as long as you had each other.

So, when you arrived in town to check out a market with a few of your teammates, Kyra reached for your hand instantly and intertwined her fingers with yours. You walk around hand in hand, moving from stand to stand with the rest of the girls.

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When you walked past a jewelry stand your eyes instantly fell on a necklace that would be a perfect gift for Kyra, except she was standing right next to you. So, you continued walking to the next stand, and grabbed your phone to quickly send Caitlin a text, since you saw that she had her phone in her hand.

Y/n: Can you please distract Kyra for a moment? I want to buy her something

Caitlin: Say no more, I got you

And sure enough, not even a minute later Caitlin grabbed Kyra's arm, “You've got to come see this.” She looks over to you to check if you're coming with. You shake your head, and continue your conversation with Beth. With a squeeze to your hand, Kyra lets go and follows Caitlin.

You quickly turn around and head back to the jewelry stand. The necklace was beautiful, it was a gold necklace with a small golden heart. You knew it would match perfectly with the other jewelry pieces that she often wore. Before Kyra could get back you had purchased the necklace and asked Katie to store it in her bag for the time being. You wanted to give it to her later, privately.

The group of you continued walking around the market until you had seen all the stands. Since it was around lunch time Viv had suggested grabbing a bite to eat at one of the restaurants you had passed earlier.

Your group had settled at a table outside on their terrace, enjoying some more time together, just talking about everything and nothing.

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You loved sharing little moments like this. Could fans still easily identify Kyra? Probably, but you didn't care. You were happy, and you wanted to share the moments that made you happy.

When you got back home, you wanted to give Kyra the surprise gift right away. You were never one for being patient with gift giving, you just wanted to see how Kyra liked it. “I got something for you at the market.” You tell her as you pull her towards the couch. "But I was there the whole time.” You wiggle your eyebrows, “I've got my ways, Cooney-Cross.” 

After your joke you become more serious. “I wanted to get you something to remind you of me, since the international break is almost here, and we'll be away from each other when we play for our own countries.” You hand her the box that you had gotten back from Katie when Kyra went to the bathroom at the restaurant.

“It's so beautiful, thank you so much. Can you help me put it on?” She hands you the necklace and turns her back to you. You place the necklace around her neck and place a few pecks on her neck once the clasp is closed. Like you thought, the necklace perfectly matched the rest of the jewelry that she was wearing. “I actually got something for you with the same reason.” She was up and running to get her gift before you could say anything.

She comes back with her hands behind her back. “It's not much compared to what you got me but I hope you'll like it.” She hands you a small stuffed animal koala bear wearing a tiny aussie jersey. “It's perfect, baby, I love it so much.” You hug the koala to your chest, “I'm gonna sleep with it every night that we're apart.” 

A few weeks later national team training was in full progress. At first your Lionesses teammates had made fun of you for sleeping with the stuffed animal but when they realized that their teasing didn't faze you, they quickly dropped the act. 

You facetimed Kyra as often as you could, which wasn't as much as you wanted to with the time difference and both of your busy schedules. Still even if you got to see her for a quick minute, your day was made. 

The Matildas were currently playing their first game after the break. They had flown to their away game against Sweden, meaning you would be able to watch the match from the hotel. A few of the girls had joined you to watch the match on the big screen in the conference hall. You loved watching your girlfriend play, she was amazing on every contact that she had with the ball. It didn't matter if it was while being her teammate at Arsenal, or when she played for her own country, you cheered just as loud when she scored a goal for Australia.

You knew she was going for the goal the moment you saw her eyes dart forward. She had Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord to either side of the field, they both had defenders surrounding them. With her quick feet, she easily moved around the one defender that was shielding her before shooting the ball over the goalkeeper, just below the cross-bar. 

Kyra had the biggest smile on her face as she celebrated with her teammates. Once the embraces from her fellow Aussies were over she pulled out the necklace that was hanging under her jersey, and lifted it up to her lips. She kisses the necklace before putting it back under her jersey. You watch the moment with tears in your eyes. You knew you weren't going to live down the ‘softie’ comments but you didn't care. 

You hung around with your teammates a bit longer, and soon after your phone notified you that Kyra was facetiming you. “Hi baby,” You say enthusiastically, “You played so well!” Her smile widens, “You watched the match?” Her teammates' voices were heard in the background of the call. You felt very loved by the fact that the first thing she wanted to do after a win was to call you. “Of course, I wouldn't miss my girl playing.” She started getting more excited. “Did you see my goal celebration?” 

You smile at her eagerness, “Yes, I loved it very much, Ky.” From behind you Leah yells, “It made her cry!” You try to shush her but Kyra had already heard. “Why did it make you cry?” You roll your eyes at Leah for exposing you. “Good tears, baby, it was just really sweet.” Kyra seemed to relax after hearing that you were okay. “But hey, you should go celebrate with your team. I love you, Ky. Text me later?” She nods, “I love you too.”

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