The Next Big Thing

David and his mother, Tabitha Jones, followed Wayne Rooney through the winding corridors of Pride Park Stadium. Each step echoed with anticipation. The excitement thrummed in David's chest; after years of training, trials, and sacrifices, this moment had arrived. If all went well, Wayne Rooney, the legendary footballer, would soon be David's manager—an idea that made his heart race with excitement.

The stadium was vast and awe-inspiring. As they moved down the hallway, the walls were lined with framed photographs of Derby County's greatest moments: jubilant players mid-celebration, iconic goals that had won championships, and a sea of blue and white fans. The polished floors reflected the bright lights above, and the atmosphere was charged with history. David could barely hold in his awe, his eyes flitting from one display to another. This was where he belonged, or so he hoped.

Wayne chuckled softly, glancing over his shoulder. "Come on, David. You can look later. We've got work to do."

David snapped back to reality, though he couldn't help but feel like he was stepping into a dream. He stole a glance at his mom. She looked proud but a little nervous, her face betraying the weight of this moment.

They followed Wayne through a set of double doors, entering a smaller corridor that led them into a spacious office. The door opened to reveal Philip Cockerill, Derby County's sporting director, seated at a large oak desk. He looked up as they entered, his face hard to read.

"Well, well, if it isn't the man himself," Wayne said, a teasing tone in his voice. He stepped aside, motioning for David and Tabitha to enter.

David's eyes immediately went to the desk, where a stack of papers sat neatly organized. The room was modern yet humble, with framed team jerseys on the walls and a couple of footballs displayed in glass cases. The air smelled faintly of polished wood and leather, the typical scent of a high-end office.

Then, trailing behind Wayne, a woman stepped into the room, her high heels clicking against the floor. She was dressed smartly, with blonde hair pulled into a tight bun. Her professional attire matched the serious tone in the room. Following her, a young boy caught Phillip's attention. He was no older than 15, a young African-British boy with a lean build. His clothes were sharp, and his eyes were intense, scanning the room with the curiosity of someone who was aware of the significance of this very moment.

"That's the boy wonder," David overheard Philip mutter under his breath, his voice laced with sarcasm.

Wayne grinned but didn't rise to the bait. "This is David Jones," he said. "I'll let him speak for himself."

Tabitha stepped forward, her protective instincts kicking in. "And you are?" she asked, her voice calm but firm.

"Philip Cockerill," the man said smoothly, standing and offering a handshake. "Sporting director of Derby County."

"Interim director," Wayne corrected from behind them, his tone a little sharper than before.

Philip shot him a sideways glance, but said nothing. The tension in the room was palpable. Tabitha shook Philip's hand firmly, but there was no mistaking the skepticism in her eyes. She then looked at David, giving him a slight nod, silently reminding him to stay focused.

"Mrs. Jones," Philip began, his voice warmer now. "Welcome. We're thrilled to have David join the Derby County family."

David and his mother sat down, and Philip gestured for them to make themselves comfortable. "Now," he said, "let's talk about the contract."

David's heart raced again. This was it—the moment he had been waiting for. He had worked so hard, and now a contract with a club as prestigious as Derby County was within reach.

Philip shuffled through a stack of papers on his desk before pulling out two copies of the contract. He handed one to Tabitha and one to David. David's eyes immediately locked onto the terms. His heart skipped a beat when he saw the figure at the top of the page.

Professional Football Player Contract

This Agreement is made and entered into this day 29th of December 2019 by and between Derby County Football Club ("the Club") and David Jones ("the Player").

1. Term of Contract

The contract shall commence on December 29, 2019, and shall remain in force until June 30, 2021, unless terminated earlier in accordance with the terms herein.

2. Remuneration

The Player shall receive a weekly salary of £10,000 gross, payable monthly in arrears, subject to all applicable taxes and deductions as required by law. The Player is entitled to performance bonuses as follows:

Goal Bonus: £1,500 per goal scored in official matches.

Assist Bonus: £1,000 per assist recorded in official matches.

Win Bonus: £2,000 for each league match won where the Player starts and plays at least 70 minutes.

3. Duties and Obligations of the Player

The Player shall:

Participate in all training sessions, matches, and promotional activities as directed by the Club.Comply with the Club's codes of conduct, including fitness, behavior, and media interaction guidelines.Maintain peak physical condition and report any injuries or illnesses promptly to the Club's medical team.

4. Duties and Obligations of the Club

The Club shall:

Provide the Player with all necessary training facilities, coaching, and medical support.Ensure prompt payment of salary and bonuses as stipulated.Assist the Player in obtaining necessary work permits, if applicable.

5. Termination

This Agreement may be terminated by mutual consent or:

By the Club, in case of gross misconduct or breach of terms by the Player.By the Player, with written notice and upon payment of a release fee equal to six months' salary.

6. Image Rights

The Player grants the Club exclusive rights to use their image, name, and likeness for promotional purposes during the term of this Agreement.

7. Dispute Resolution

Any disputes arising under this Agreement shall be resolved in accordance with the rules of the English Football League.

8. Confidentiality

Both parties agree to keep the terms of this Agreement confidential, except where disclosure is required by law or football governing bodies.

Signatures

For Derby County Football Club:

Name: [Authorized Representative]

Title:

For the Player:

David Jones

Witness:

Name:

David looked up from the document, feeling a surge of excitement. £10,000 a week. His mom, too, seemed satisfied, though her eyes kept scanning the contract as if she were searching for hidden terms or fine print.

"This is a very generous offer," Tabitha said cautiously. 

Philip smiled thinly. "Of course. This is a standard contract. But it's a good start, Mrs. Jones. I'm sure David will earn much more as his career progresses."

Wayne cleared his throat, standing slightly straighter. "Actually, if I'm being honest," he said, glancing at Philip, "this is a bit basic. We could do more for David."

Tabitha raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? And what exactly would you add, Mr. Rooney?"

Wayne leaned forward, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "For one, I'd increase the salary. Not by much, but enough to reflect David's potential and talent. And I'd raise the termination fees as well. If other clubs come knocking, we don't want Derby to lose him without proper compensation."

Tabitha looked back at the contract, then at Wayne, her eyes lighting up with interest. "Is that what you would do? Increase his salary?"

"Definitely," Wayne said, his gaze steady. "David has the ability to be a star. It would be wise for Derby to lock him in before anyone else notices him."

Philip shifted uncomfortably in his seat, glancing at Wayne with a mixture of annoyance and understanding. "Wayne, you know we can't offer more just yet. He's untested in the league. We have to see how he performs first."

"I'm untested?" David responded, finally speaking up. "Guess I'll just have to prove I'm worth more," he said confidently, his voice steady.

"A little arrogant, aren't you?" Phillip scoffed. "We're talking about professionals here, not the youth leagues."

David's expression remained unshaken. "I know this isn't the youth leagues, and thank goodness for that," he replied. "And It's not arrogance; it's knowing my worth."

He was eager—not just to prove himself to Phillip, but to show the world how good he really was