Lucy Zeezou's Goal (11 page)

Now that we were back, Mama was caught up in her own world again, frantically organising her schedule to catch up on all the latest gossip with her friends over long lunches and dinners. There were a few society events to attend, and of course appointments for fittings with her favourite designers. She was practically frothing at the mouth knowing she was back in the limelight, living her dream life. Going back to Sydney would be a challenge for her.

The paparazzi had already snapped us walking along the Piazza del Duomo together. They were mainly after Papa the football legend. He just managed to put up with it, and I tried to ignore them, but Mama loved it, always armed with a pout for the camera. It was like being constantly followed by a pack of hungry sharks.

Today though, the photographers would be on our side. Papa and I were heading to the Love Lucy shoot. Thankfully, Mama was going to catch up with us later. This gave me some time to hang out with Papa … well, if you could call a photoshoot time together.

‘Ciao, Lucia, it's been too long, the camera and I have missed you,' gushed Enzo. He put his hands on my shoulders and stood back. ‘Let me have a good look at you. My, you've grown into an even more beautiful young lady. And what's in the water in Australia? You're suddenly taller than me!'

‘That wouldn't be hard, Enzo', I said with a cheeky smile. ‘But as usual, you're too charming. Papa says the shoot is going to be different, with more of a sporty theme?' I walked around the studio to get a feel for the shoot.

‘I have a few fun ideas for this campaign but I want to surprise you. I know you love the girly thing, but this could be a new look. I think you'll make the Love Lucy label hugely successful, especially now that there's going to be a massive billboard campaign across Europe. You must be so excited! Now,' he continued his rant, ‘let's get you into hair and make-up. Anastasia is waiting for you.'

‘What billboards? Papa, you didn't tell me I'd be seen all over Europe!' I was shocked at the thought.

‘Isn't it exciting? We've already sold the label to most of the European capitals and we're close to securing a deal in the US and possibly Australia too,' he announced proudly.

I almost couldn't bear to say anything. ‘But Papa, my friends will give me such a hard time. I can't be splattered all over the place. They'll think I'm a show-off.'

‘Lucia, you've grown up in front of the camera and in the public eye. And besides, I know you'll love it when you see the designs. Enzo is going to make the shoot a lot of fun for you.' Papa made himself comfortable on the lounge and picked up his macchiato.

Before I had a chance to say anything more, Anastasia came running into the room. ‘Ciao, young lady. Let's go! While I'm putting your face on, the stylist can give you a peek at the new designs. The clothes are very groovy and beautifully made. I think you'll love them.'

I sat back while the stylist showed me the range. I was pleasantly surprised. The Love Lucy clothes were actually my style: sporty yet smart casual gear you could wear on all occasions. Some of the outfits were a bit too glittery for my taste, but I loved the design on the T-shirts and singlets – a love heart with my name scrawled alongside it in ruby red, or different colours to suit your taste.

I had to admit the label was brilliant, especially the jeans and cool T-shirts. I also liked the bomber jackets, which had the heart design scrawled across the back. There was even a range of reversible tracksuits. It didn't seem to be Mama's style, but I loved the range instantly. I was starting to feel like one of the fashion queens I detest. I needed to get back onto the pitch, and quick!

After close to an hour and a half of hair, make-up and the stylist fiddling with the clothes, I was deemed ready to play for the camera. I walked into the studio, dressed
in a sparkly silver top with a big red love heart splattered on the front, black fitted straight-leg pants with a zipper theme and big pockets, and a pair of cool red sneakers covered with little black hearts and sprinkles of silver.

‘Lucia, all I can say is stunning. Stupendo!' yelled Enzo.

‘See Enzo, I told you my beautiful girl was perfect for this label,' Papa gloated.

Enzo agreed and then snapped to it, directing me from behind his camera. ‘Now Lucia, please move to the centre of the backdrop and just have fun. I want you looking as though you're messing around with one of your friends.'

I put on my best playful mood in front of Papa, trying to impress him. I occasionally looked over and winked or blew him a kiss.

‘That's it, Lucia. Perfect. I want more of that.' Enzo nodded as he clicked furiously.

I savoured this moment, as ones like it didn't come around very often. I had Papa's full attention, and we were both enjoying ourselves.

My treasured time was cut short by his mobile ringing. He answered it, signalled he'd only be a minute, and then promptly left the room.

‘Lucia, keep smiling and play up to the camera.'

Click, click, click. After a few minutes I was ushered away to change into a new outfit, and then began posing all over again. This time I wore the black T-shirt with the
Love Lucy print and denim jeans. This was more like it. But I wished Papa was back.

‘Nice outfit Lucy. I'd like to try something different. Your papa is a genius with the ball … now let's see what his daughter can do.' To my surprise, Enzo threw me a football while still snapping.

My two lives suddenly came together. I forgot where I was and totally immersed myself in my football world, juggling the ball and performing fancy tricks.

‘
Mama mia
, Lucia, you are a vision to behold, poetry in motion. Never have I seen anyone so beautiful control a football with such ease and grace.'

I could hear Enzo but I wasn't listening. I was in the zone, acting on instinct. Just me and the ball, that's what made me happy.

The camera continued to click as I played to my heart's content, balancing the ball on the back of my head … rolling it down my spine and kicking it into the air with the back of my heel. I juggled the ball with my feet for a while and then sent it hurtling past the camera.

‘Brilliant, Lucia! Now, dribble towards me and as you're about to reach me, go straight past, first left and then right,' Enzo yelled excitedly, trying to maintain the energetic mood and capture something special.

Click, click, click.

Enzo paused for a moment while his assistant handed me some netting and adjusted a few lights. ‘Now, just hold
the net in front of you and peer through it, as if you're about to attack your opponent.'

Snap, snap, snap.

‘Fantastic! Now celebrate as though you've just scored a goal.'

That wasn't hard. It's what I did best. I was getting carried away but I couldn't help myself. I was obsessed … or possessed – I wasn't sure which, but it was so much fun.

‘Bellissima! One more time with the ball, but can you leap and attempt to kick a goal? We'll put some gym mats under you to soften your fall. Are you comfortable with that?'

‘I'll do my best. Fire away.' It had dawned on me that I was probably shocking Enzo with my ability. But right then, I didn't care.

‘Just one more thing, if you can, please make sure the ball is kicked either side of me. I don't fancy getting hit by a football and my camera won't enjoy it either.' Enzo looked genuinely concerned.

‘Very funny, Enzo. I'll do my best but I can't guarantee that I won't hit you. Are you insured?'

‘Yes, but I'm sure your kicks won't be too damaging. My assistant will throw the ball very gently at first and we'll see how you go.'

‘I'm ready. Let's go,' I said. I couldn't wait to blast the balls past him.

At first I sent them back gently to warm up.

‘Yes, I love that, Lucia. You have great skill,' said Enzo, still surprised.

Then I unleashed at full pace … bang, bang, bang, the balls flew past Enzo on both sides. Just for a bit of fun I sent a few balls flying just over his head. ‘Hey, Lucia take it easy! But, this
is
fantastic. What else can you show me?' he said. I asked the assistant to throw the ball higher and I surprised him with a scissor kick.

Click, click, click. Enzo couldn't get enough.

‘Spectacular, Lucia. You have the gift,' he cried with amazement, even though he had to duck a few times.

‘Wait, Lucia's sweating,' Anastasia yelled out, stopping play. ‘She needs powder and a few adjustments.'

Of course. Everything had to be perfect, I couldn't
possibly
have a hair out of place. Anastasia was like a demon with the hairspray, and carefully touched up my make-up.

‘Lucia, keep still, I need to top up your lippy. Perfect, now you look like a model … or maybe a glamorous footballer! I had no idea you were so gifted with the ball. I'm so impressed.'

I smiled as she worked the big powder puff over my face.

‘I've never seen you so excited at a photo session', she continued. ‘I can't wait for your papa to see you perform your magic in front of the camera. Your parents must be so proud that the football genes have been passed on to you. What do they think of the way you play?'

I whispered, ‘They don't know. I train secretly with my friends. Please, we must keep this between us.'

‘You know I wouldn't say anything … but they'll see the photos,' said Anastasia.

She was right. What was I doing? I couldn't let Papa see me perform so competently with the ball. I was so much sharper and stronger than when I was banned from playing – he'd be able to see that I'd been practising behind his back. I tried to think of a way out, but before I could say anything to Enzo, Papa walked back into the studio.

‘Sorry about that – I had to take that call.' He grimaced. ‘How's it all going?'

‘How's it going? This has to be one of the most incredible shoots I've ever worked on,' Enzo gushed. ‘Lucia was born to play. Paolo, you must be so proud of her. You've taught her well.'

I cringed and waited for Papa's response.

‘Enzo, I think the heat from the lights has burnt your brain. What are you talking about? Lucia doesn't play football any more. She's a model and a dancer, not a footballer,' Papa replied earnestly.

They looked at me. Sweat dripped down my face as nerves took over. This moment could change my life.

‘Oh Lucia, show your papa how you can dance with the football. Show him how you juggle, and your spectacular scissor kicks. Paolo, she's like a prima
ballerina, except she performs with a football – an absolute vision,' Enzo enthused.

Anastasia was back with the powder puff as I prepared for damage control. I gave her a wink and hoped for the best. This was going to be tough but I had to protect myself. Sorry, Enzo, I thought.

He threw me a ball and I clumsily fumbled around with it at my feet, tripping over and falling on the mat. I demonstrated very bad timing and a total lack of co-ordination.

Papa was convinced. ‘See, Lucia's no footballer. Enzo, you must be overworked. You need to take a break.'

‘No Paolo, I'm fine. I've never been better. I'm telling you, your daughter controls the football better than most people. She's just messing,' Enzo said firmly. Then he looked at me. ‘Come on, Lucia, you're making me look like a fool. I'm going to show your papa the images I just shot, and he'll see your skills for himself. You should be proud of your ability. You're so talented. Why hide it?' He responded in disbelief.

I thought flattery would be my best defence. ‘Enzo, I'm not hiding anything. You just know how to make me look good, that's why you're the best photographer in Italy.'

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]

Subject: Ciao!

 

Hey Bella

How r u? Sorry I haven't been in contact sooner but it's been hectic back home.

I didn't realise how much I missed Milan, it's all so familiar and comfortable for me here. I met up with a few of my old football friends for a game in the park. It was fun catching up and hanging out, eating gelato and of course talking about my favourite subject. I've slipped back into my Italian lifestyle but I really miss you, the Lions and my grandparents.

I'm torn between the two cities, but I love the way Sydney gives us more freedom to do as we please. The paparazzi here won't leave us alone, it's suffocating.

I know you'll love this bit of news. I've just finished the Love Lucy photoshoot for my parents' new teen label and it was actually fun – although I nearly blew my secret. The outfits are quite sporty and casual, so the shoot had a sporty
theme, and I ended up playing with a football. I think I may have got away with it for now, but it's going to be hard to explain how I juggled the ball so many times and managed scissor kicks. Papa will know that I've been training when he sees the shots. I smell trouble, but it was the best photoshoot I've ever been involved in. It won't be long before I have to face the music. There goes my football career, up in a puff of smoke … but I won't bore you with my stuff any more.

Gigi's keeping me occupied. I'm bringing her back with me – so you'll get to meet her soon. And the best news is that my papa may also be coming back with us.

How are the boys? Have you seen Harry or Max?

What's the latest goss?

Say hi to Dylan.

Sorry, have to go.

Ciao

Lucy

 

‘Lucy, I have something to show you. Can you please come up to the office?' Papa buzzed over the intercom.

‘Okay, Papa, I'm on my way,' I replied. It wasn't often that he called me upstairs, so I wondered what was up.

The home office for 23 took up the whole fourth floor of our house, and it had spectacular views of the city. Wall-to-wall cabinets were crammed full of Papa's awards, trophies and memorabilia from his football career. While football dominated the space, Mama
had managed to throw in a splash of fashion items to demonstrate that this was actually where my parents ran their fashion business.

The office was a recent addition, so that they could spend more time with me, although it hadn't worked out as well as I'd hoped. They still worked crazy hours, but at least now they were only a few levels above me.

As I approached the office door, I could hear voices. I'd thought Papa was alone, but I walked in on a business meeting. Mama was there, dressed as usual in her finest.

‘My beautiful girl. Come in. Your mama and I have something we'd like to show you,' Papa said with a look of delight while Mama gave me a curious stare.

This wasn't good.

‘What is it, Papa?' I said, trying to sound enthusiastic. My stomach was in knots.

‘Enzo has brought over the proofs from yesterday's shoot. We want to see what you think of them,' he said enthusiastically.

‘Oh, but I don't usually like to look at them. I'm sure you'll choose the best shot for the campaign,' I replied anxiously.

‘Don't be so modest. I want you to take a good look and select your favourite. Enzo here tells me they're very impressive. Oh, and this is our friend Marcello Lantini. He's a filmmaker.'

‘Ciao, Enzo. Nice to meet you Signor Lantini.'

‘Please call me Marcello,' he said, inspecting me closely. I didn't like it, but I was pretty much used to it. I stared straight back at him and he averted his eyes.

I sat at Papa's desk, expecting the shots to come up on his computer screen, but it was blank.

Suddenly the movie screen unfolded from the ceiling. The lights went out and music began to play. Next thing I knew, I was bombarded with images of myself from the Love Lucy fashion shoot. I could barely believe it.

All the shots with the football looked amazing. Now I was really panicking. I had the distinct feeling that my relationship with football would soon be a distant memory.

Despite my nerves, I could see that the photos were very impressive. I looked over at Enzo, who gave me a quick wink. A sheepish smile sprawled across his face. My parents hadn't taken their eyes off the screen; they were scrutinising every shot. Papa seemed impressed, but it was hard to tell, as he didn't utter a word. Mama, however, looked horrified. Her face turned red as the football shots filled the screen and mesmerised the small audience.

I shrank into my seat, wondering how I'd explain my football skills. I prayed for the time to go quickly, wishing it was just a bad dream, some awful mistake. But then the lights went on and when I looked up, all four of them were staring at me, astonished.

‘Lucia, that was simply stunning. Your magic in front of the camera has given us so much to choose from. This campaign will cause a sensation when it's released. The mix of your modelling and football skills is incredible – mind-boggling. Italy, in fact Europe, will fall in love with Lucy!' Enzo could barely contain his excitement.

Mama was unusually quiet. Papa, who still looked amazed, spoke instead. ‘Lucia … words can't express how I feel. The image you portray is full of life, elegance and confidence. I'm surprised, pleased and also confused: I don't know how or where you managed to learn to use the football in such a masterful way when you don't play anymore.

I sank further into my seat, anticipating a lecture.

‘Your beloved Nonno Dino obviously left a lasting impression. When I saw you at the shoot you were falling over the football. But on the screen, you defy gravity … it's mesmerising. I don't want answers right now – in fact, I've just thought of a good tagline for the television campaign: “Defy gravity … in Love Lucy designs”.'

A television campaign?
Oh no. This was getting out of control. I had to do something.

‘Yes, that's a great idea. I love it,' said Enzo with an enormous grin.

‘“Defy gravity in Love Lucy designs” – it defines the label and it's something that young people will find appealing. Lucia is perfect, she already portrays that image. Brilliant!' agreed Marcello.

‘Frida you've been very quiet. What do you think?' asked Papa.

‘Well, I'm shocked, but I confess I'm in awe of Lucy's performance as a model. The images are stunning, and I actually like the fashion and sport mix.'

Oooh, that was a big surprise.

Mama continued. ‘In this case it works. The camera loves her and here she is in love with the camera and, it seems, the football. She'll certainly demand attention; Girls will want to be like her and boys will wonder how she does it.'

By this stage I was cowering in my chair. I was in deep trouble. There was no way Mama would let me get away with this.

‘Unlike you, Paolo, I
would
like to know how she demonstrates such mastery with the ball – or is it just Enzo's incredible talent with the camera? If you remember, we stopped her playing last year, but I can't recall seeing her leap in the air like that back then. I hope she's dancing with the same dedication she seems to have given football – but I'll discuss that with her later, as it's a personal matter.' Mama crossed her arms and gave me one of her looks.

‘Great, it's settled,' said Papa.

But Mama wasn't finished. ‘Oh and one more thing – Enzo, I congratulate you for doing such an amazing job – it's your best work. You've captured a Lucia I didn't
know, and I love it. It's a look and mood that I know will be popular. Translated into a television commercial, this will certainly be a success.'

‘Well, that's settled, then,' said Papa. ‘We'll film the commercial in three weeks, Lucia, so make sure you get plenty of rest so that you look your best – and please stay off your bicycle. We don't want any injuries or bruises.'

My stomach was churning and my temper rising. I was overcome with emotion and couldn't stop myself …

‘I thought you wanted my opinion. I thought we were going back to Sydney in two weeks. I have other important commitments, like school and my dance concert. I have another life with Grandpa and Nanna in Australia, and I miss my new friends. I can't just hang around while you plot and plan my future. I've had it,' I cried.

Everyone looked at me, stunned. I stormed out of the room.