The next morning started off quietly enough. Sunlight filtered through the curtains, soft and warm, painting the room with a golden glow that made it seem calmer than it truly was. Jeffrey stretched lazily in bed, half expecting to fall back asleep — until his phone lit up and vibrated across his pillow with an incoming call.
He frowned and reached for it.
The number looked familiar only because he’d saved it yesterday.
His new workplace.
He answered, and the voice on the other end spoke briskly.
“Good morning, Mr. Jeffrey. The schedule has been adjusted. You’re required to resume today.”
Jeffrey bolted upright.
“What? Today? I was told next week!”
“Yes, we understand,” the caller replied politely, “but the new owner wants every staff member present for a formal introduction. Old,
