Burning Ashes by H. Lewis-Foster

Author:H. Lewis-Foster [Lewis-Foster, H.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

IN THE grand meeting room at Lord’s, Nat fidgeted, attempting to find a comfortable spot on the hard wooden seat. He looked across the table at Pete, who was sitting alone, the two places beside him now empty. Pete’s face was unreadable as he leaned back in his sumptuous leather chair and coolly set his gaze on Nat.

“I’ll come straight to the point, Nat. We’d like to offer you the post on a six-month contract.”

Nat contained the astonished laugh that threatened to escape, and was about to thank Pete wholeheartedly when the England manager calmly raised his hand.

“But before you accept or refuse our offer, I’d like to explain our thinking.”

A flicker of concern crossed Nat’s face, as he began to suspect that all was not as it seemed.

“Your interview and practical were impressive, but the other candidates, to a man, have far more experience than you.”

Nat swallowed nervously, wondering where this was leading.

“However, the other candidates aren’t screwing one of England’s best batting hopes for decades.”

Nat couldn’t believe what he’d heard. He knew he should defend himself, but he was so shocked he couldn’t speak. Surely Pete knew how offensive he’d been, but he carried on regardless.

“You know as well as I do that we haven’t seen a fraction of what Scott can really do. And the overwhelming obstacle to his progress would appear to be…” Pete pointed an accusing finger at Nat. “… you. I think we gathered from last year’s unfortunate incident that he’s not at his best when you’re not around. It’s therefore logical to assume that he might fulfill that immense potential if you were around.”

Pete’s meaning was unmistakable. Nat felt his face flush with color. Within minutes, he’d gone from elation to anger and now to embarrassment. How could he have imagined he’d be successful on his own merits? He’d thought Scott might be the reason he failed, but he hadn’t guessed he’d be the reason he was offered the job. Nat wasn’t sure whether to be delighted or dejected as Pete continued his speech.

“Now this conversation stays within these walls. I don’t have the time or diplomatic skills for your fellow candidates’ complaints. Do we understand each other?”

Nat gave a cautious nod.

“And if you do accept our offer, there’d need to be absolute discretion within the camp. The other guys miss their wives too, you know. So no kissing, no fondling, and separate rooms on tour. Right?”

Nat nodded once more, and Pete’s expression softened a little.

“I happen to think you’d make a damn fine coach, Nat. But you’d be giving up a colossal amount to take this job, so you have to be totally certain that this is what you want to do. Think it over. Call me tomorrow.”

Nat gave one final nod, but he didn’t reply, because he honestly hadn’t a clue what to say.

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