Greg’s hysterical speeches and emotional whims, benching players just because “he felt it”, were gone. José focused on improvement. They adapted fast.

Ten minutes before the end, tied on the scoreboard, Jameson, Oldchester’s top forward, scored a brilliant goal. They fought back, but he scored again five minutes later. They lost four to two. Twice they almost scored, but each attempt opened space for merciless counterattacks. The championship and the World Cup training had left most of them exhausted.

Two hours later, Victoria and Alexandre sat on a couch in front of the hotel bar. Sushi and champagne arrived. Francisca entered in high heels and a short grey silk dress. She saw them and approached.

“Sit with us,” Victoria said, sliding aside so Alexandre was in the middle. He checked his pocket. Boris’s GPS was there.

“You’re in good company, philosopher!” a teammate shouted from across the bar. Alexandre raised his hand in reply.

“Today we’re celebrating my father’s birthday here,” Francisca said, crossing one leg over the other so her thigh brushed Alexandre’s hand.

“You look beautiful in that dress,” Victoria said, thinking, How shameless!

“And you’re a piece of heaven in summer,” Francisca replied, thinking, How cute!

“Stay for the party! My treat. It’ll be elegant. Then maybe we can have our own private celebration,” she said, tilting her head and tossing her long, red curls. Will little birds fall? Will they?

“Afraid we can’t,” Victoria said. “We’re leaving for Cambridge tomorrow.” I’ll unmask you, she thought.

“Oh, what a pity. I’d have loved to host you. I’ve a private suite perfect for philosophy talk,” Francisca said.

“It’s a family dinner. My parents invited us. We’d have loved to stay,” Victoria replied, crossing her legs. She was tempted. This was her chance to unmask the enemy.

“Don’t worry, darling. We’ll find a time for the three of us,” Francisca said, placing her hand on Victoria’s thigh and leaving it there.

“If Alexandre’s team use your father’s hotels, we’ll meet again,” Victoria said, resting her hand on top of hers.