“You can’t just say no.”
“I can and I am,” Javier replied. “We’re going to get in the top next season. I can tell. It won’t happen without you by my side.”
Steven shook his head. “What if Jamie gets rid of Udo over the summer transfer period?”
“He won’t,” Javier replied. “Udo is our top goal scorer this month. Imagine what he can do next year once he’s fully comfortable? Jamie wants that success more than anything. I can talk him round.”
Javier’s loyalty touched Steven.
“Fine, I’ll hold off for now,” he said. “If Jamie does put Udo on the market, then I’m leaving.”
“If that makes you feel better,” Javier replied.
“You’re only saying that because you know he won’t.”
Javier cackled. “Correct.”
They turned onto the road that led to the gates of Newby Park. Press still congregated around the entrance gates.
“More or less than yesterday?” Steven asked.
“I’d say a little more. We’ve not hit the centre of the storm yet, my friend.”
Cameras were pressed against the window. Reporters shouted questions that they knew would remain unanswered.
“Jesus Christ. Get out of the way!” Javier barked.
Steven sank down in his seat. In all the years he had been in the public eye, he had never courted this level of attention. It was his worst nightmare.
Eventually, Javier negotiated the car through the throng and onto the drive. He exhaled loudly.
“The end of the season can’t come quick enough,” he said.
“Agreed. I might get a sign for the window telling them Howard says no questions.”
Javier pulled into his parking space and turned to Steven with fire in his eyes.
“What?” Steven asked.
“I think Howard’s wrong,” he replied. “Keeping silent is bullshit. That gives them a licence to print what the fuck they like.”
Steven frowned. He didn’t disagree with Javier but what could he do about it?
“What are you saying?”
“Let’s take matters into our own hands.”
He nodded toward the gates.
“Are you insane? Jamie will sack me.”
Javier got his mobile out and dialled.
“What now?”
Jamie’s voice filled the car through the speakers.
“I’m in the car park with Steven,” Javier said. “I think Howard is wrong. If we go and give the press our side—no questions, only a statement—it will kill all the rumours.”
