"So, son," Alex dad said, "what are you going to do with your first day off as a proper professional?"
"I am going to rest," Alex said, eating his toast. "I am going to sleep. Maybe watch some football on TV. I am exhausted."
"Good," his dad said. "You have earned it. You need to rest that big brain of yours."
Alex finished his breakfast. He went to his room. He lay on his bed.
He looked at the clock. It was noon.
He had four hours. Four hours of beautiful, glorious sleep.
He closed his eyes.
He saw Mark. He saw Mark pointing at him.
"Four o'clock, Alex. Do not be late."
Alex groaned. He opened his eyes.
He was not going to sleep.
He was a professional. And his partner was waiting.
At three forty five, Alex limped out of his house.
"You are going out?" his mum called, looking worried. "But you are so tired, love."
"I have to train," Alex called back. "I am still a duck."
"What? Are you okay, Alex?"
"I am fine, mum! See you later!"
