THE TRANSFORMATION OF MARC (0)

CHAPTER 0: JUST ANOTHER DAY

Marc Alonso's iPhone alarm sounds at 5:45 AM with the mathematical precision that characterizes his entire existence. His 188-centimeter, 75-kilogram body, made up of pure muscle, unwinds from the Egyptian cotton sheets of 1,200 threads while his abdominals contract naturally as he gets up. The golden light of dawn filters through the windows of his master bedroom in Las Rozas, illuminating his naked torso, which seems to have been sculpted by the Greek gods.

"Another day, another opportunity to be the best," Marc murmurs with the confidence that characterizes him, heading to the marble-lined main bathroom.

His morning routine is sacred: a five-minute cold shower that puts every fiber of his perfectly defined body on edge, shaving his three-day beard with millimetric precision, and using the best Italian shower gel that enhances the natural aroma of his dark skin. As he dries himself with economical movements, his reflection in the mirror returns the image of a man who could star in any male underwear advertising campaign.

He dresses in a perfectly tailored Armani suit that hugs his physique without being vulgar or tight - Marc hates any garment that could be provocative or overly accentuate his anatomy. Loose cotton boxers, an impeccable white shirt, and an Italian silk tie complete the outfit of Accenture's most successful executive.

At 7:30, his chauffeur Rodrigo picks him up in the company's BMW Series 7. Marc settles into the back seat, reviewing the day's reports while Madrid wakes up at his feet. His analytical mind processes data and strategies with the same precision with which his body used to execute dribbles when he was a professional soccer player.

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In the apartment on Fuencarral Street, the contrast could not be greater. Alex wakes up in Dani's arms, their bodies entwined under a duvet that has seen better days. The room is filled with posters of famous dancers, carelessly hung football equipment, and art books scattered all over the place.

"Good morning, princess," Alex whispers into Dani's ear, his lips brushing against the dancer's neck as his hand runs over Dani's smooth and perfectly toned back.

Dani turns with a sleepy smile, his blond hair falling over his blue eyes like a golden waterfall. "Mmm, good morning, my love. Have you dreamed again about your obsession?"

Alex sits up, his muscular torso visible under the sleeveless shirt that clings to his body like a second skin. His green eyes shine with a special intensity when he responds: "Marc is not an obsession, it's a... pending project."

"You're crazy if you think something will ever happen with that homophobic asshole," Dani laughs, but his voice carries a hint of melancholy. He also fantasizes about his second cousin, although he would never admit it openly.

From the kitchen comes the noise of dishes and Iker's voice shouting: "Guys! ...