Jeffrey barely slept.
His eyes had closed, yes but his mind refused to rest. Every time he drifted, the same thought pulled him back awake.
National team.
The words felt unreal, like something borrowed from another life.
By the time the alarm buzzed, he was already sitting up.
He stared at the ceiling for a moment, chest rising and falling, then let out a slow breath. Excitement tangled with fear, anticipation with doubt. What if he wasn't good enough? What if this was all a misunderstanding?
Then his brother's voice echoed in his head.
Focus. Do what you have to do.
Jeffrey swung his legs off the bed he had to make himself and brother proud so he jumped off and muttered. "No time doubt myself."
He started the morning exactly the way Dayo had taught him years ago quiet, disciplined, no rush. A short jog around the block while the streets were still half-asleep, the air cool against his skin. His muscles warmed naturally, rhythm settling into his steps.
