Chapter Four: The Expired Metronome

plus start bonuses; another two million would become due only if the club qualified for the Champions League. “Why would they pay five million to lose a player?” Elena asked after the first call. “They aren't buying out a salary. They're buying an overseas registration slot. Their new signing arrives tonight. If Serra isn't released by six, the new man misses league registration.” On the second call, San Aurelio raised its compensation offer. Serra himself was harder. He joined by video from an empty Madrid apartment, an ice pack across his knee. “I have a two-year offer from Qatar worth fourteen million.” “Why haven't you signed it?” Lin asked. Serra studied him. “You didn't come to discuss money.”