"Hey, you're here," the owner greeted Lily warmly. Lily nodded, producing the draft she'd prepared, but didn't hand it over. "Where's the kid?"

"Oh, that kid?" The owner chuckled. "He hasn't shown up in two days. No idea what's going on; he won't answer his phone. He's fired if he doesn't come in tomorrow. Young people these days—unreliable."

"He hasn't been here for two days?" Lily mused aloud. "Didn't he work for you a long time?"

The owner shook his head. "Who told you that? It's only been a couple of months. I saw he had carving skills. I've been busy lately, no one watching the shop, so I let him work. But I didn't expect this! He's only been here a short time and just stopped coming—no word."

He paused, seeming to remember something. "Oh, don't worry. We won't delay your piece. Even if he doesn't show up, I'll find a good craftsman. We'll get your piece done properly and beautifully!"

"Do you have his phone number?" Lily was unconcerned about the replacement craftsman.

"Yes, but he won't answer," the owner said, embarrassed, handing Lily a card with a number. "Here you go."

Lily noted the number. She was commissioning the carving because her father's birthday was approaching; she wasn't returning home, but wanted to give him a gift. However, she still needed to contact the young man to secure the right wood for her project's research.

Shortly after leaving the shop, she received a call from Jenny. "Where are you?"

"Window-shopping."

"Get back to the company," Jenny said.

Lily was surprised. "Now?"

"Yes, now! Don't delay! Take a cab!" Jenny added quickly, perhaps sensing Lily's concern, "It's good news!"

The joy in Jenny's voice was clear, but what good news could it be? Lily, having nothing else to do, took a cab to the company. Jenny was waiting by the elevator, pacing; she'd clearly been expecting her.

"What's wrong?" Lily asked, puzzled. "Bonus?"

"Please! I wouldn't call you over for a bonus! They'd deposit it. You're so capable, how can you be so naive?" Jenny exclaimed, pulling Lily inside. "The company has a new project. They need you!"

"What project?"

Before Jenny could answer, they were in the general manager's office.

"Ms. Gray," the general manager's secretary greeted them. Something big was afoot. Lily exchanged a glance with Jenny, who nodded and waved. Then, without a word, Jenny ushered Lily into the office.

Lily was completely bewildered.

General Manager George was already there, reviewing documents spread across his desk. Hearing them enter, he looked up, smiling. "You're here!"