Chapter 1: Monday

Robert was composing an email about his latest sales meeting when the phone rang. He looked at the display to see who was calling him and it read "Home".

"Strange, who would be calling from home this time of the day." Robert picked up the phone, "Hello?"

"Hi honey, it's me."

It was his wife Megan. "Hey, why are you at home?"

"An emergency just came up. I need to fly to the client site this afternoon to sort things out. I am packing my bags as we speak."

"Oh, ok. How long will you be gone?" Though this was unexpected, Robert wasn't too surprised. Megan worked as an insurance auditor meant she frequently had to travel to client site to verify claims and often on short notice.

"I am not sure. It was a pretty big accident so I may have to stay there for a few days. I am so sorry honey, I think I am going to miss your birthday."

"That's ok. It's only a birthday, I have one every year." Robert was disappointed deep down.

"I promise I will make it up to you when I come back! I promise!"

"Don't worry about it. We'll celebrate when you come back."

"Right. I'll have to go now. The taxi has just arrived to take me to the airport."

"Love you. Travel safe."

"Love you too, honey. See you in a few days."

And with that the phone line was disconnected.