Chapter 4: Chapter 4: Now we have money
Here's a streamlined and polished version of this chapter:
When David returned to Nottingham, he was no longer the poor, desperate chairman. With £120 million in winnings, he was now a small tycoon—and the least popular bettor among bookmakers across the country. This monumental win marked the end of his need for high-stakes gambling; his focus would now shift entirely to rebuilding Notts County.
Upon arriving home, David found the angry fans had dispersed. In their place stood a familiar figure: Kevin White, a sports reporter for The Nottingham Evening News and a passionate Notts County fan. White's expression was a mix of disappointment and frustration as he stormed into David's home, wasting no time.
"You mortgaged the club! It's all over the news," White shouted, visibly distraught. "How could you do this to us? You've turned Notts County into a laughingstock!"
David, calm and collected, handed White a beer and took a seat. He understood the reporter wasn't here as a journalist but as a fan speaking on behalf of thousands of others who adored the club. Their outrage was rooted in love.
"Kevin, I never said I'd give up on the club," David replied evenly.
"But you mortgaged it!" White shot back, though his tone softened slightly. "How can we believe you're still committed after doing something like that?"
David sighed, recognizing the doubt in White's voice was shared by countless fans. "I mortgaged the club because I needed short-term funds for an investment. It was a risk, but I knew it would succeed."
"You're gambling with the future of Notts County!" White roared. "How could you—wait, what do you mean it succeeded?"
David smirked, holding up a finger for emphasis. "I said, it succeeded. I now have £100 million at my disposal. Imagine what that could do for the club."
White froze, his jaw dropping. "One hundred million pounds? Are you serious?"
David nodded confidently. "I'll invest every penny into Notts County. Picture this: we'll have a competitive squad, secure finances, and a bright future. The days of struggling are over."
White sat in stunned silence, his mind racing. £100 million was an astronomical sum for a third-division club. It could transform Notts County overnight. For perspective, the club's total valuation was a mere £15 million. This kind of money could build a modern stadium, buy top players, or even outpace wealthier rivals.
Meanwhile, David knew the media would soon spread the news, turning him from a villain into a hero in the eyes of Notts County fans. Their anger would give way to celebration once they realized their beloved club was saved and ready to thrive.
But for Nottingham Forest fans—their city rivals—the news would feel like a gut punch. Just days ago, they had mocked Notts County's apparent demise. Now, they'd be forced to swallow their words. David chuckled to himself, imagining their reactions.
Fans meeting in Nottingham:
Nottingham Forest fan: "We've won the top division title!"
Notts County fan: "We have £100 million!"
Nottingham Forest fan: "We've won two Champions League trophies!"
Notts County fan: "We have £100 million!"
Nottingham Forest fan: "We're in the First Division, and you're in the Second!"
Notts County fan: "We have £100 million!"
Nottingham Forest fan: "…Can you say something else?"
Notts County fan: "Sure. Our club's history is longer than yours!"
Nottingham Forest fan: "…"
David grinned, knowing Notts County's fortunes were about to change forever. The future was his to shape, and the first steps toward greatness had already been taken.