"Yes. Cameron is going to be the new Head of Sports Medicine and Performance. As you said, this is a family business."
My stomach drops.
"He's very excited. Fresh perspective. New ideas."
"With all due respect, I have five years of experience with this team. I've implemented protocols that have significantly reduced our injury rate. I know these players. I know this system."
"Exactly. And that's why I want you to mentor him. You're the best at what you do, and he should learn from the best."
Cameron Cooper just graduated. He has zero professional experience and he's getting my job. Because he's the owner's son.
"So where does that leave me?" I ask.
David chuckles. "Leaves you where you are. As our senior physiotherapist. You'll report to Cameron and help him transition into the role. There will be a pay increase of five percent for helping him."
Report to him. Five percent pay rise. To train my replacement.
"I hope you understand. One day when you have a family, you'll realize you'll do anything for your children."
That's not helping your child. That's nepotism. "When does Cameron start?" I ask.
"Next week." David smiles as if everything is perfectly fine. That he didn't just shatter my career.
"Thank you for letting me know," I say, trying to stay calm, even though I want to scream.
"He is so excited to be working with you," David adds.
I nod.
I leave his office in a fog, slowly walk back to the treatment room office, close the door behind me and have a cry. I let myself feel it. The disappointment. The frustration. The anger. I worked my ass off for this club. For the athletes. All for the owner’s son to waltz in and take the job with no experience. And the kicker? Making me mentor him. I give myself five minutes to get it all out, then fix myself up and start my day as if my entire career hasn't been shattered.
"This doesn't look like a celebration." Polly stares at me sitting in the dark, curled up on the couch.
"It's not," I grumble, feeling sorry for myself in the comfort of my own home.
"Shit. Let me pour a glass and join you."
I sip my wine as I watch her pour hers.
"Okay. I'm stocked up. What the hell happened?"
I tell her, and she's furious.
"Are you fucking kidding me? His son?"
"Yep."
"That's bullshit." She shakes her head.
"Yep."
"You should quit. You deserve better."
"Where would I go? My visa is wrapped up in that job."
"Shit," she curses.
"What about my club? I could ask around. See if there are any positions."
