Javier glanced nervously at Steven.
“Fine,” Jamie replied. “But for fuck’s sake don’t say anything that brings any more heat on us. Howard is only one man.”
“We’ll keep it totally beige,” Javier said. “I promise.”
The call terminated.
“I don’t know about this,” Steven said. “I really think we should clear it with Howard.”
Javier cut the engine and got out. Steven had no choice but to follow suit. Even standing in the car park he heard the dull thrum of camera shutters going off from the gate. It made him want to recoil.
“We give them three pieces of information. You are staying at Brockton. Udo is staying at Brockton. Your love life is private and will never be commented on. End of story.”
It sounded so simple.
Steven jogged after Javier as he strode up the drive. The press pack snapping to attention.
“Let me say it,” Steven said. “It’ll sound weak if it comes from you.”
“I’ll set the scene, then they’re all yours.”
They were at the gates now. The hairs on the back of Steven’s neck bristled as he stared into the eyes of the hardened reporters. There was not a friendly face amongst them.
“Gentlemen,” Javier said, rubbing his hands together. “Much as we enjoy your company every morning and every evening, we know you must have more important things to do. So my assistant coach and friend, Steven Cox, is going to give you three pieces of information. Do with them what you will.”
Then all eyes were on Steven. Remarkably, the journalists were silent.
He cleared his throat. His hands were clammy and his heart raced.
“Okay,” he said. “Firstly, I am not leaving Brockton FC. Secondly, Udo Holtmann will not be leaving the club any time soon. Thirdly, that is the only comment I will be making at this time.”
He’d managed it. Steven glanced at Javier, who grinned at him.
“What do you say to the parents who don’t want to bring their children to matches until this gets resolved?” one reporter fired back.
“How have you reassured the players they’re safe in the changing rooms with either of you?” another asked.
Javier stood closer to Steven.
“We said no questions and we meant it,” Javier announced. “Thank you for your time.”
He ushered Steven down the path.
“You’re being very protective, Javier,” a reporter shouted. “Maybe we should be asking questions about your relationship with Steven.”
Javier stopped in his tracks. He marched to the gate.
“What did you say?”
Unease gripped Steven. He wanted to drag Javier back to the training facility. They’d achieved what they wanted.
“Does your wife know how involved you are in this?”
Javier shook his head. “She’s fully aware of the lengths the gutter press will go to for a story.”
The press pack all sniggered to themselves.
“Sorry if I touched a nerve there, Javier.”
