A Table Between Two Worlds.

The house smelled of bread and wood smoke. Yusef Al-Khatani sat at the worn wooden table like a diplomat visiting a humble court. He opened a small black portfolio, removed a few laminated documents, and placed a sleek tablet on the table."Al Nassr Football Club," he began calmly, "is not only one of the most prestigious institutions in Saudi Arabia—it's the future. We are building something historic. And Cristiano would be part of our elite youth division. One of the first of its kind."He tapped the tablet. Images appeared: gleaming stadiums, rows of tidy bunk beds, classrooms, young boys training beneath the sun. Cristiano's eyes lit up. His parents remained still."He would receive full accommodation, training, education. He would learn English, Arabic, nutrition, discipline. He would live among the best of the best."José Dinis shifted in his chair. "And his faith?"Yusef paused, his smile unfazed. "In our country, faith is woven into life. There is no compulsion—but there is guidance. Structure. Reflection. He will observe at first. Learn. And if his heart is open, he may walk a new path."Maria Dolores's eyes narrowed slightly. "We are Christians. Not Catholic. But followers of Christ."Yusef inclined his head. "We respect that. And we expect only respect in return. The boy will be expected to follow certain customs: dress modestly, learn Arabic prayers, attend spiritual instruction. All as part of cultural enrichment."Cristiano, seated at the end of the table, rested his chin in his hands. His feet swung under the chair. He understood little, but every mention of football made his heart beat faster.José looked at Yusef with quiet tension. "Will we be able to visit him?"Yusef gave a pleasant, rehearsed nod. "There are scheduled visitations—during Ramadan, or in the off-season. But Cristiano will be busy. It is not a vacation. It is a calling."Maria Dolores exchanged a glance with her husband. Something in her chest tightened.Yusef then pulled out a contract. "If you agree, we can begin the process today. The plane will leave Lisbon this Sunday. The club will provide a financial support package for your family. Monthly stipends. A signing bonus."Cristiano looked up. "Am I really going to play for a team?"Yusef leaned closer, placing a hand on the boy's shoulder."You are going to become someone the world remembers, Cristiano. All you need is trust. And obedience."