CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY SIX – JUST FOR THE THEORY

There was a brief silence, then Harold Bates' gruff voice filled the line. "Nia? What's going on?" Nia launched into her prepared speech, punctuating it with well-timed coughs. "Mr. Bates, I'm so sorry to do this again, but I've come down with a terrible cold. I can barely speak, and I've got a fever. I don't think I'll be able to come in today." There was a pause on the other end of the line, and Nia held her breath, worried she'd overdone it. "This isn't like you, Nia," Harold said finally, his tone a mixture of concern and suspicion. "Two sick days in such a short time? Are you sure everything's alright?" Guilt gnawed at Nia's stomach, but she pushed through. "I know, and I feel terrible about it. I think I might have pushed myself too hard coming back after that 24-hour bug. I promise I'll make up all the work when I'm feeling better." Harold sighed. "Alright, Nia. Take care of yourself and get some rest. We need you back at a hundred percent." "Thank you for understanding, M