Michael Sterling was the only person awake at the Sterling Era Training Complex.
He sat in his office. The room was quiet. The coffee machine hummed softly in the corner.
On his desk sat a bottle of champagne that Arthur Milton had given him. It was unopened. Michael did not need alcohol to feel dizzy. The reality was enough.
Premier League. He said the words out loud to the empty room.
"Premier League."
They tasted sweet. Like sugar and victory.
The door clicked open. Arthur walked in. He looked remarkably fresh for a man who had gotten married on Saturday and promoted on Sunday. He carried a thick binder under his arm.
"Good morning Boss," Arthur said, placing the binder on the desk with a heavy thud.
"Morning Arthur. Is that the budget for next season?"
"No," Arthur smiled. "That is the history book. The Season Review. The numbers."
Michael opened the binder.
THE BARNSLEY FC SEASON REPORT
Final Position: 2nd (Promoted)
Points: 92
Wins: 28
Draws: 8
Losses: 10
