The Greatest of all Time

The lights of Anfield had long dimmed following Liverpool's emphatic 3-0 victory over Everton in the Merseyside Derby.

Zachary Bemba, now firmly a household name, returned to his sprawling mansion in Woolton.

The quiet suburb, lined with leafy streets and luxurious homes, was a far cry from the thunderous roars of the Kop. Yet, it was here, in the tranquility of his home, that Zachary could unwind and reflect on a career that had reached extraordinary heights.

He kicked off his shoes in the marble-tiled entryway and made his way to the kitchen, where a small plate of fresh fruit and a protein bar awaited him—a light snack to keep him energized after an exhausting day.

After washing up and changing into casual wear, he settled onto the plush leather sofa in his living room. The oversized TV mounted on the wall glowed softly, showing highlights of Liverpool's win over Everton.

Zachary smiled at the replays of his goal, a curling effort into the top corner that had sent Anfield into raptures. Yet, his satisfaction was tempered by a flicker of nervous excitement. Tomorrow was no ordinary day—it was Ballon d'Or day.

As he reclined, savoring the moment, his phone buzzed. Kristin's name flashed on the screen. His personal assistant was the epitome of efficiency, and he already knew why she was calling.

"Kristin," he said, picking up with a warm smile, "how's my miracle worker?"

"Hello, Zachary," Kristin's voice was bright yet professional. "I've finalized all the arrangements for tomorrow. Your flight to Paris is scheduled for 1:30 PM. I've booked a private jet to ensure your comfort. Your suit has been tailored to perfection, and I've coordinated a hair appointment in the morning to get you ready for the evening. Your hotel in Paris is confirmed—the Hotel Plaza Athénée. It's one of the most elegant spots in the city."

Zachary couldn't help but be impressed. Kristin never missed a detail. "Kristin, you're incredible. Honestly, I don't know what I'd do without you," he said, his tone genuine.

Kristin chuckled. "It's my job, Zachary, but thank you. And, by the way, you'll look stunning tomorrow. This moment is yours, and it should be all about you."

Zachary's playful side emerged. "You should come with me, you know. Attend the ceremony, sip champagne, rub shoulders with the stars. What do you say?"

Her laugh was soft but resolute. "Tempting, but no. Tomorrow is your night. You've worked hard for this moment, and I wouldn't want to distract you. Go and enjoy it to the fullest."

There was a trace of disappointment in his voice as he replied, "Fair enough. But thank you for everything. Really."

"Good luck, Zachary," Kristin said warmly. "I'll be rooting for you from here. You've got this."

The call ended, leaving Zachary both grateful and eager for what lay ahead. He watched the news for an hour, letting the weight of the day's events sink in before retreating to his bedroom for a much-needed rest.

The next morning, Zachary awoke with the sunrise, the soft light filtering through the blinds of his spacious bedroom. The clock read 7:00 AM, and he rose with purpose.

His first activity of the day was a yoga session, a routine he'd adopted since his Juventus and Rosenborg days to improve flexibility and mental focus. In the quiet of his private gym, he moved through poses with the fluidity of a seasoned practitioner, his tall 6'4" frame surprisingly agile.

By 8:30 AM, he was behind the wheel of his sleek black Audi RS7 Sportback, heading to Liverpool's Melwood training ground.

The drive was short, and the familiar sight of the training complex brought a sense of comfort. Inside, he enjoyed a hearty breakfast with teammates—scrambled eggs, avocado, and whole-grain toast, fueling his body for the day ahead.

The recovery session was light but purposeful, designed to help players bounce back after a grueling match. Zachary worked through resistance band exercises, light cardio, and deep stretching for two hours, sharing laughs and banter with his teammates.

As the session wound down, he received a call from Kristin, reminding him of his hair appointment.

Showered and dressed, Zachary said his goodbyes. "See you soon, lads," he called out. "Next time we meet, it'll be with some golden hardware."

The squad erupted in cheers and good-natured teasing. Virgil van Dijk clapped him on the back. "Bring it home, Zach."

With a grin, Zachary left Melwood and drove to the salon, where he was warmly greeted by a stylist who had worked with several high-profile athletes. They discussed the look for the evening, settling on a clean, modern cut with sharp fades and a slight wave on top, styled neatly to complement his tailored suit.

The result was impeccable, enhancing his natural charisma and confidence.

Feeling refreshed, Zachary made a quick stop at a popular Liverpool restaurant for a light snack—a smoked salmon bagel and an espresso—before heading to the airport.

Kristin was waiting for him near the private terminal, holding a sleek garment bag that contained his custom-tailored suit.

The suit, a deep navy tuxedo with black satin lapels, was paired with a crisp white shirt, a slim black bowtie, and polished leather Oxford shoes. Kristin handed it to him along with a travel bag containing other essentials.

"This should cover everything," she said, smiling. "Now, go win that Ballon d'Or."

Zachary smiled warmly. "Thank you, Kristin. For everything. You're the best."

With a wave, she saw him off as he boarded the private jet. Inside, the plush interior offered every luxury, from reclining leather seats to a curated menu of gourmet snacks.

As the engines roared to life and the jet ascended, Zachary gazed out the window, watching Liverpool's skyline fade into the distance. His thoughts turned to the evening ahead and the possibility of standing on the world's most prestigious stage.

The private jet touched down at Le Bourget Airport just as the winter sun began its descent, casting a golden glow over Paris. As the wheels kissed the tarmac, Zachary Bemba leaned back in his seat, letting out a small breath of anticipation.

Through the window, the sprawling expanse of the City of Light came into view, its timeless beauty undiminished by the season's chill.

A gleaming black 2018 Audi A8, provided by the automaker that endorsed him, waited on the tarmac. The luxurious sedan, with its sleek lines and lavish interior, was the perfect blend of style and sophistication for an evening destined to be unforgettable.

A uniformed driver greeted Zachary with a polite nod as he stepped off the jet, dressed in a tailored coat to shield against the cold. The doors of the A8 opened silently, revealing a plush leather interior illuminated by ambient lighting.

Settling into the rear seat, Zachary admired the car's quiet elegance as they glided smoothly out of the airport. The journey to the Hotel Plaza Athénée took them through Paris's picturesque streets, with the Seine shimmering under the fading daylight and the Eiffel Tower already beginning to sparkle in the distance.

The hotel, a jewel on Avenue Montaigne, was everything Zachary expected and more. Its iconic red awnings, magnificent lobby, and meticulous service bespoke an establishment accustomed to hosting the world's elite.

A concierge greeted him with a warm smile, guiding him swiftly through check-in and to his suite. The room itself was breathtaking, a sanctuary of understated luxury with velvet drapes, marble accents, and a balcony offering a sweeping view of the Eiffel Tower.

Zachary took a moment to stand by the window, taking in the sight of the iconic monument glowing against the Parisian skyline.

He spent the next few hours unwinding. Kristin's meticulous planning ensured that he had nothing to worry about but the ceremony itself.

Zachary scrolled through his phone, replying to messages from his closest circles.

Kristin had sent a final note of encouragement: "You've worked so hard for this. Just be yourself and enjoy every moment."

Emily, his agent, was equally supportive: "This is your night, Zachary. Wish you the best!"

His Liverpool teammates had flooded the group chat with good-natured banter and encouragement. Klopp's message stood out: "No matter what happens tonight, you've already made us all proud. But I'll admit, I can't wait to see you lift that Ballon d'Or."

Zachary replied to a few messages before setting the phone aside and letting his body relax. Sleep came easily due to fatigue, and he dozed off to the faint hum of Parisian life outside his window.

The alarm's sharp tone jolted him awake. It was nearly six in the evening, and the golden glow outside had given way to the twinkling lights of Paris at night.

Zachary moved quickly, his mind already shifting into focus. A quick wash rejuvenated him, and then he turned his attention to the outfit Kristin had arranged.

The suit, a deep navy tuxedo with black satin lapels, fit him perfectly. He paired it with a crisp white shirt, a slim black bowtie, and polished leather Oxford shoes. Each detail was deliberate, every piece a testament to sophistication.

Standing before the full-length mirror, Zachary adjusted his cufflinks, taking a moment to steady his nerves. This was the culmination of years of dedication and sacrifice. With a small smile, he pocketed his still buzzing phone and stepped out of the suite.

The familiar Audi A8 was waiting for him at the hotel's entrance, its engine a soft purr in the evening chill. The driver opened the door, and Zachary slid inside, greeted by the comforting warmth of the cabin.

As the car eased into traffic, he took in the sights of Paris, now alive with energy. The Avenue Montaigne sparkled with Christmas lights, and the Seine's bridges glowed softly, their reflections dancing on the water below.

The journey to the Grand Palais was smooth, the A8's air suspension making the drive feel almost ethereal.

The Grand Palais soon came into view, a stunning Beaux-Arts masterpiece with its iconic glass dome shimmering under the night sky.

Crowds of fans had gathered outside the venue, their excitement intense. Red ropes lined the path leading to the entrance, and bright lights illuminated the grand facade.