With this thought, Carl turned around, mustering his most courteous smile, though fatigue weighed heavily on him, likely giving him the appearance of a weary man straining to seem friendly. The recent work project had been demanding, its stress leaving visible marks on him. The last few days had been especially exhausting, taxing him both mentally and physically. Now, more than ever, he needed some peace and quiet during this flight.
But the constant kicking from the boy behind him was making it increasingly difficult to find that peace. Carl realized that he needed to address the situation somehow. He couldn’t afford to arrive in Seattle frazzled and exhausted. He needed to be sharp and ready for the continuous demands of his high-stakes career.