“Shit,” Colin said. “Sorry.”
Javier came through the doors, closely followed by Stephen.
“Meg. Out.”
She scuttled off to the dugout. Hopefully she wouldn’t be needed.
“Right,” he said. “A win or draw would be amazing but don’t go all out. It’s fucking freezing out there and I can’t afford any of you to get injured.”
Adam frowned. “Is that supposed to fire us up?”
“I’m being serious,” Javier replied. “If we keep our midtable spot, we’ll be fine. I want to consolidate for the cup. I need you all on top form.”
He had an unusually honest approach for a manager. Most of the men Noah had played for wanted success at all costs. This was another example of Javier Tosar’s unconventional management style.
Noah glanced at Tito.
The guy had a need to win in his DNA. Whether on the PlayStation or on the pitch. Tito winked back.
Noah braced himself.
Time to shine.
They won the game thanks to two goals from Tito. Noah slept alone that night, despite what his teammates said. He wanted a long lie-in. He’d been reading a book about the power of rest.
The next afternoon he returned to his plot of land. This time to meet the contractor building the place. He smiled to himself as he glanced over to the spot where Carmine had parked up.
Carmine had offered to come with him but Noah had politely declined. He wanted to do this for himself completely. There would be so much more to be proud of when he was in his home.
Ben came out of a small cabin which served as a site office. He beamed when he saw Noah. When they’d first met, Ben had made it clear he was a fan.
“Hey, Ben,” Noah said, shaking his hand.
“All right, Noah. Excited?”
This week they’d finished the foundations. They had a long way to go but now he’d be able to visualise the rooms.
Ben led him over.
“You can’t stand on it yet,” Ben said. “Come up on this hill here.”
The garden sloped upward, giving them a perfect view of the site.
Noah stood and took it all in.
It’s perfect.
“I have to say, the plans are amazing,” Ben said. “So easy to work with.”
Noah grinned. “I’ll pass that on.”
This was going to be such a sanctuary. Noah had never had that before. He could see him and Malcolm having a kickabout once the lawn was laid. He might even host Christmas for everyone.
“When will it be ready?”
“I think you can be in by next winter,” Ben said.
He must’ve seen Noah’s face drop.
