2018
“Good day, gentlemen,” I say as I hurry into the conference room, eager to get this business over and done with. I drop my laptop on the table and shake everybody’s hands as we introduce ourselves and engage in meaningless small talk.
I try my hardest to stay in the present, even though all my focus is on the phone I’ve clutched in a death grip. But I paste a professional smile on my face, spout platitudes, and do my best to be courteous and representative.
I sneak a glance at my phone as everyone takes their seats around the huge table and sets up their laptops. Not that I’m expecting to hear anything yet—Jools already texted me earlier to tell me his doctor would be late—but I want to make sure.
After Kevin, my assistant, has put out all the refreshments and snacks, it’s time to
