Daniel Mercer stepped out.
Two corporate staff members followed.
Derek was at the door before the bellman.
“Daniel.”
He extended both hands.
“Welcome. Good to see you.”
Daniel shook one.
“Derek.”
“We're delighted to have you.”
“I imagine.”
Derek laughed as though it were a joke.
Chloe stood behind the front desk wearing the most professional expression Margaret had seen from her.
The flowers were straight.
The marble shone.
Every employee stood alert.
Daniel took three steps into the lobby.
Then saw Margaret.
He stopped.
Derek followed his gaze.
Margaret remained seated beside a half-empty teapot.
Daniel's face tightened.
Not surprise.
Concern.
Then he crossed the lobby directly toward her.
Derek frowned.
“Daniel?”
Daniel ignored him.
He stopped beside Margaret.
“Mrs. Whitfield.”
Several employees froze.
Margaret looked up.
“Good morning, Daniel.”
“I'm sorry I'm late.”
“Only one minute.”
Daniel smiled faintly.
“You all right?”
“I've had an educational breakfast.”
Derek approached.
Confusion spread across his face.