Zane threw Zara a bombastic side-eye at her dramatic reaction.
Before he could respond, Hale leaned forward, curiosity piqued. "Oh, is it for the upcoming Premier League?"
Zane's lips stretched into a small smile. "No, I was selected for the international friendlies to determine the World Cup qualifiers."
Zara let out a breath, relieved it was just about his work.
Hale's face lit up. "Wow, that's big news! My boy is going places at such a young age." His pride was unmistakable.
"Well… I still have to qualify first," Zane replied, pressing his lips together. His voice held a hint of uncertainty, and Zara caught the way his fingers tapped lightly against the table.
This was huge for him. The peak of his career so far. And even though he'd always dreamed of it, there was a part of him that still couldn't believe it was happening.
"Just do you, Zane. I trust you'll make us proud." Hale ruffled his hair. "You've been excelling, and you always will."
