Chapter 4 - Chapter 4: Two Drinks

Sibisi stayed true to his word and went straight to bed after having dinner with his mate. Me, on the other hand — I refuse to call it a night at half nine, especially on the first night away of the season.

I live for this. I get plenty at home and I make the most of the off-season in Jozi, but there's a different kind of thrill to pussy on away trips. The unknown of who it'll be, the excitement of where it happens, the satisfaction of never having to see them again if I don't want to. That's how I like it.

Which is exactly why I didn't reply to either of the women from Bloem who slid into my DMs earlier. The thrill was gone. It stopped being interesting the second it became certain.

"Another round?" Davids asks.

I take a quick look at my half-full whisky, knowing I don't need another one. I try to keep the limit to two in season, especially the night before a match. It's one thing to stay up late and get laid. I'm not stupid enough to get wrecked and play hungover.

"I'm going to nurse this one." I raise my glass to his and take another small sip.

Davids lifts a hand towards the woman working the tables, signalling for a fresh drink. His third of the night. Which, if I'm still here when he goes for a fourth, I'll put a stop to. I'm not the skipper, but I'm the vice, and even though I mess around, I've still got a responsibility to make sure my guys are ready when it's kick-off.