Page 34 of Playing the Game

“It’s not so bad,” Howard said, glancing at his ever-present iPad. “The newspapers are baying for blood, of course. Calling you unprofessional. On the socials, it’s split.”

That wasn’t too bad. Adam had been on the rough side of the English media many times before. It blew over eventually.

“I had planned on doing some events with our three new players,” Howard added. “I think we’ll give it a miss for a while because it’ll be given a negative spin. In the meantime, get out and about. Show the world we don’t care.”

The lads all cheered. That was an easy assignment indeed.

“Okay,” Javier said. “I’m sure you want to get home. See you all on Tuesday. Enjoy your day off.”

Everyone got up and began to disperse. Jonas came up to Adam.

“For the record. I thought you were amazing.”

Tingles swept through Adam.

“Thanks. Unfortunately I think I’ve made shit worse.”

Jonas frowned. “I bet not in the long run. As a straight man, you’ve shown you understand what we’re facing. That’s a powerful message.”

“Maybe I understand more than you know.”

Jonas took a step away.

Shit. Get the hell out of here.

“What?”

“Nothing. I’d better get going.”

Panic setting in, Adam made for the door. Udo stopped him.

“Are you okay?”

Adam’s heart hammered away like a drum machine.

“No,” he replied.

“Follow me.”

In a slight daze, Adam obeyed. They collected their stuff and walked to the car park in silence. A few people congratulated them. Adam managed to stay professional.

Better late than never.

Although his own car was here, Adam got into Udo’s.

“Where to?” Udo asked.

“Let’s drive for a bit.”

“Sure thing, Skipper.”

Udo fired the car up. As they got onto the main street, Adam groaned. There were a group of the same neanderthals he’d argued with.

“Let them wave their banners,” Udo said.

“Don’t worry. I’m not going for round two.”

They drove in silence until Udo got out of the small Lancashire town and into the countryside. Adam exhaled.