“Morning, Noah,” he said in his brisk, professional tone. “How are we doing today?” Putting on her best miserable voice, Noah coughed slightly before speaking, “I’m really sorry, Mr. Green. I woke up with a terrible stomach bug. I feel awful… I think I need a few days to recover.” There was a pause on the other end. Noah’s heart pounded in her chest, afraid that he might see right through her lie. But then Mr. Green sighed.
“Don’t worry about it, Noah,” he said, his voice softening with concern. “Take the time you need. Just focus on getting better.” Relief washed over her. She thanked him, hung up, and then threw herself into action. Her bag was already packed—she’d been planning this getaway in secret, booking the flight weeks ago. A spontaneous week of sun, sand, and freedom. She’d return to work rejuvenated, no one the wiser.