Chapter Three: Three Contracts, One Second

” Two contracts waited. “Have you seen Harborbridge's squad?” Milo asked Lin. “They may be relegated.” “I've seen it.” “Northcastle can give me the Champions League.” “Or loan you out for three years. You owe Harborbridge no gratitude. You owe me nothing. We freed Luka because debt should not be a chain, not because your signature was the price.” “Then why do you believe I'll choose you?” Lin pushed Harborbridge's contract across the table. “I don't. I only wanted you to own your choice for the first time.” Milo read the final page and signed at 11:57. The registration light turned green. Old Dock's clock struck twelve, and supporters began singing beyond the windows.