The West Bromwich Albion letter lay on Ethan's desk, heavy like a weight. It represented a turning point in his life. The initial shock of the visit and the offer had worn off, leaving him with the tough reality of a decision to make.
He and his mum talked late into the night. This was a life-changing chance, a real pathway to a professional career, not just a distant dream. But it also meant leaving home at sixteen. He would have to leave his school, his friends, and the only club he ever truly played for, right in the middle of a title race.
"You don't have to decide right now, Ethan," his mum said, her voice filled with support. "You have the England tournament first. Focus on that, and we'll really talk when you get back. It's your future, love. Only you can make this choice."
He found Callum and Mason at their usual spot in the park, kicking a ball against the wall of the old community center. He had texted them when the visit ended. They stopped when he approached, the question hanging in the cold air. "So?" Callum asked, unable to hold back his curiosity.
"They offered it," Ethan said quietly, shoving his cold hands into his pockets. "A two-year scholarship. A path to a pro contract after."
Callum let out a long, low whistle, the football forgotten at his feet. The playful rivalry faded, replaced by genuine awe. "A real offer," he said, shaking his head. "So... you're going, then? I mean, you have to. It's West Brom. It's the Championship."
The question felt heavy. It wasn't just about his decisions. It was about leaving them behind.
Before Ethan could respond, Mason, who had been watching him closely, spoke up. "It's for next season," he said practically. "Right?"
"Yeah, it would start in the summer," Ethan confirmed.
Mason walked over to grab the ball. "So what's there to talk about now? You've got a tournament to play in Spain. And when you get back, we've got a league to win. This is a big deal, Ethan. But it's in the future. Don't let it mess up the present."
Callum looked from Mason to Ethan, his expression softening. "He's right," he said, managing a smile. "Go and do great in Spain. Show those Spanish kids what an Eastfield player looks like. Makes us all look good, right?" He nudged Ethan. "Just... don't forget about us when you're famous, okay?"
The joke was light, but the insecurity beneath it was real. "Never," Ethan said, a grateful smile on his face.
That weekend, Ethan packed his bags. The England camp was near Valencia for a three-team tournament against Spain and Germany. This was his first trip abroad, his first time on a plane. As he zipped up his new England travel bag, his eyes fell on the letter from West Brom, still on his desk.
He picked it up, folded it, and slid it into his desk drawer, under his school textbooks.
He shouldered his bag, feeling clear-headed. His mum was right. Mason was right. One challenge at a time. The decision about his future could wait. For now, he had a new, more pressing job: to play for his country.