Page 89 of Player

“What do you mean?”

“Come on.”

I follow him toward the wall where Eddie’s group is assembled. Oblivious to their glares, Finn pushes us inside their circle.

No one is happy to see him.

“What the feck do you want?” Eddie snarls.

Finn tosses an arm around my shoulder and tucks me into his side. “A job.”

I look at Finn. Now he’s interested in plan B?

“My chailín tells me your brother is hiring. I’d like you to put in a word on my behalf.”

Men snicker, unpleasantly.

“You taking the piss?”

“Dead serious.”

Eddie laughs. “What makes you think I’d put in a word for a wanker like you?”

“I’m about to do you a favor.”

“A favor?” Eddie looks around. “I need favors from the likes of you like I need a hole in me noggin.”

Finn cocks his head. “Very well.” He turns to leave the group with me in tow. Slowly, ever so slowly. Waiting.

“What was the bloody favor, anyway?”

I catch Finn’s quick smirk. “Advice on how to beat the big, ugly beast in the cage.”

Complete silence falls over them.

I grin with certainty. Because, once again, Finn has gotten his way. “Put in a word with yer brother or better yet, his boss, and I’ll help you out. And just think, you take down a man his size and you’ll be the talk of the underground. Fifteen seconds and it’ll be over.”

Eddie bites. “Fifteen?”

“Fine. Maybe twenty.” I pinch Finn’s side, but Eddie ignores the slight barb.

“How?” It’s the question we’re all asking.

“About that job ...”

“I’ll speak to him on yer behalf if what you’re offering is true.”

“Deal.” Finn leans in toward Eddie like he’s about to share a secret. “Go for the South African’s legs.”

Eddie stands up a bit taller. “His legs.”

“He’s a big fella. Big chest, big arms, big gut. And no doubt, big head. He won’t expect yer attack.”

“No shite.”

“Take a gander at his legs. Scrawny, scarecrow legs. “Steer him toward the back of the mat where there’s spilled beer. Aim for the back of his legs just behind his knees. Kick them out from under him and he’ll go down harder than Goliath.”

“Bloody brilliant, that is.”