On February 5, Marcus Bai arrived back on the Gold Coast after a trip to Papua New Guinea, hopeful for positive news.
His son Cooper had reportedly signed with the Melbourne Storm, a decision that thrilled Marcus.
This moment was significant, as it symbolized the continuation of a family legacy at the club where Marcus had celebrated a championship nearly three decades prior.
However, what awaited him shattered their hopes and ignited a remarkable contract drama in the NRL.
Cooper had reversed his decision.
During the ten days Marcus was away, a seemingly simple chat in a Titans office altered everything.
Gold Coast's new coach, Josh Hannay, engaged the 19-year-old in personal discussions, steering clear of football altogether.
This encounter has left Marcus Bai with lingering resentment towards his son.
"I'm very cranky about this and I'm pissed off with his management team as well," Bai expressed in an interview with The Courier Mail.