“Good morning, Dominic,” Sophia says with a sweet smile. “You’re here early again.”
I respond with a noncommittal shrug of my shoulders. “It’s a dirty job, but someone has to do it,” I joke. Dana brings us both coffee and we ready ourselves to begin another full day. I explain my plan to Sophia and she’s very eager to get started. After taking her down the hall to Darren Hardy’s office, I resume reviewing the contract.
My office phone rings and I automatically recognize the number on the caller ID. It’s Rich Daltry, one of our major potential customers and the owner of a large video game corporation. His company is very influential and important to my company. He has previously informed me that he wants me to attend an in-person meeting at his headquarters in San Diego. I have a sneaking suspicion that’s why he’s calling now.
“Dominic Powers,” I answer.
“Dominic. Rich Daltry here. We are ready to move forward with the contract negotiations. Can you come out to San Diego in two weeks?” Rich takes control of the conversation without so much as saying ‘hello,’ first.
“Hi, Rich. Good to hear from you. Let me check my schedule and see if we can make that work,” I reply calmly. A few clicks on my computer later, I’m looking at a jam-packed calendar for the next two weeks, especially considering I’m still training Sophia. “I can make it in three weeks, Rich. Will that work for you?”
“Yes, yes, that’s fine. The sooner you can get here, the better, Dominic,” Rich replies. We each transfer the call to our secretaries to make the arrangements and get the details sorted. I also tell Dana to include Sophia in the travel plans before I hang up the phone.
A business trip with Sophia is both exhilarating and concerning. On one hand, I will have time alone with her. On the other hand, I will have time alone with her. I will have to endure it regardless of what happens.
