James knocked on his master's door and waited for a response.
He leaned closer, pressing his wrinkled ear against the wood.
Nothing.
He checked the time on his watch and frowned. It was a quarter to seven in the morning. It was unusual for his master to still be asleep at this hour.
He knocked again.
Still no answer.
With a quiet sigh, James turned the knob and stepped inside. To his surprise, he found Master Rodney fast asleep on the bed.
He hurried to the bedside and gently tapped his shoulder.
"Master Rodney, wake up. You'll be late for the company meeting."
Jonathan opened his eyes slowly and pushed himself upright.
"Meeting?"
"Yes, sir. The one we have with Denwalk Shipping Company every year."
Jonathan froze.
That was Lily's workplace.
"What time does it start?" he asked.
"It begins at 9:30, sir."
Jonathan swung his legs off the bed and stretched.
"Should I prepare something professional for you to wear while you shower?" James asked.
Jonathan yawned. "That would be great."
* * * * * * *
By 8:00 a.m., Jonathan was seated in the back of the car, dressed in a sharp black suit.
He pulled out his phone and searched for Michael's contact.
He typed a quick message.
[Jonathan]Going to Lily's workplace today. I have a meeting with them. I don't know what it's about, but maybe I can find out something there. Wish me luck.
He hit send and slipped the phone back into his pocket.
Jonathan glanced out the window and realized they were already approaching the building.
He straightened his suit and picked up his briefcase.
The car slowed to a stop at the entrance.
Just as he reached for the door, his phone vibrated.
He pulled it out.
[Michael]
Oh, then good luck! When you're done with the meeting, call me or come by the club if you can.
Jonathan slid the phone back into his pocket and stepped out of the car.
He looked up at the massive building towering above him.
"Please… let this be a good day," he murmured silently.
Then he walked inside.