An hour later, Dennis’s number was still unreachable. Michael had been trying nonstop and each time the line dropped, his heart followed suit. The confidence he had at the start of the day was now long gone and replaced with an unsettling unease.
He left his room and walked down the stairs, heading to the dining hall where Claudia stood, giving directions to the maids.
“No, move that tray closer to the center table. And those glasses, spread them out properly. This is not a roadside gathering,” she snapped.
“Mother,” Michael said under his breath as he approached her.
She turned, her eyes brightening with hope. “Has he finally answered?” She asked.
“No.” He shook his head with a long sigh, scratching the back of his neck as he racked his head for a solution.
“Do you think he has betr
