He hated upsetting his mother and would go to any lengths to avoid it.
“I’m fine,” he said, forcing a smile on his face. “I don’t know why I’m not gelling here.”
Her face grew dark. “I think you do.”
“Let’s not go into that again.”
“Maybe if you told somebody at the club, they would understand.”
“No,” he said firmly. “This is a new beginning for me. I’ve got a new team and a new agent. I don’t even want to think about it.”
She nodded. “Okay. I thought it might help.”
“Steven Cox has offered to spend time with me, just the two of us,” he replied. “To talk tactics apparently.”
“That’s good news. Isn’t it?”
Udo wasn’t sure. He’d never had to do this before.
“God knows what they’re saying behind my back. If they get rid of me this summer, I’ll look a total bloody fool.”
“I know you don’t like to think about this,” she continued, “But there’s a whole world outside of kicking that ball.”
His mother obsessed about what he would do after retirement. Udo didn’t want to think about that yet. Why should he?
“I had a great season last year despite everything. It’s not time.”
“I understand. It can’t hurt to talk to your agent. He might have some suggestions.”
Udo laughed bitterly. “The days when I give agents too much access into my life are over.”
“Then talk to Steven. He’s done wonders since he retired. I read his Wikipedia page. Very impressive.”
Udo had also spent time researching Steven. Maybe too much time.
“Fine. I’ll ask his advice. If only to take that worry off your face.”
“Darling, my doctor does that with those magic injections. Besides, I’m your mother, I’ll never stop worrying. How is your new agent? Bob…?”
Udo glanced out of the window. Two birds were squabbling on the front lawn over something. He watched them for a second. They finished their spat and flew off in different directions.
“Rob Baron. We’ve only done Zoom calls. I’m meeting him properly this afternoon. He’s driving up from London for lunch. There’s some new sponsorship interest. Mind you, after yesterday they’ve probably changed their minds.”
“Nonsense. This is temporary. Udo Holtmann doesn’t stay down.”
Later that day, Udo headed into a country pub to meet Rob Baron. The day might be warm outside, but the cosy indoors still appealed. Udo loved these quintessentially British institutions with their quirky décor. This was no exception. Brass ornaments jostled for prominence with various paintings of sheep.
The best bit was the aroma of a proper Sunday roast. Udo’s mouth watered. A treat once in a while was allowed.
A few locals were chatting at tables. One or two gave him ahard stare as he walked in. He supposed they were as frustrated with his performance as he was.
Rob sat by the window. He looked a little out of place with his gold jewellery, slicked-back hair and cockney accent. Udo could imagine he was a hit with the ladies back in London. He’d dressed to impress in a Ralph Lauren shirt and jeans.
“Hi Rob,” Udo said, taking the seat opposite him.
“This is a bit different to Chelsea,” he said. He reached across the table and shook Udo’s hand.
Udo smiled. “Just a little. I like it though. It’s more real up here.”
