Maybe Later(15)

AWalk90: Probably, but I research a lot. It comes with the territory.

JSpear84: Where do you live?

AWalk90: Online, obviously [wink emoji face]

JSpear84: Is there some policy against meeting clients?

AWalk90: I need to catch some zzzzs before tomorrow but contact me if you need anything.

JSpear84: Have a good night, Amy.





Chapter Seven





Friday, April 15th, 6:46 a.m.



“Good morning, Sushi,” I greet my rambunctious cat. “Where’s your partner in crime?”

“Meow,” he responds, licking his right paw while his honey colored eyes stare at me.

“Office hours begin right about…” I pause, pointing at the wall clock. “Now. I bet Ramen is still sleeping, isn’t she?”

“Meow, prrrr,” he says, giving me a dismissive glare.

“Am I interrupting something?” I ask as I turn on my computer. “By seven, I expect you to have my coffee ready, my oatmeal started and if possible, all of my correspondence answered.”

“Meow!” he protests.

In the kitchen, I pour myself a cup of coffee—thank God for automatic brewing—and start my oatmeal.

“You’re the worst assistant in the history of the world. I’m going to fire you like I did Ramen,” I warn him, but as usual, he’s immune to my rants.

I shouldn’t have favorites, but Sushi owns more of my heart than Ramen does. He’s always by my side, warming up my lap while I work, or on top of my pillow when I’m sleeping. Ramen is too independent and only comes close to me when she needs food.

Gathering my coffee, oatmeal, and half a grapefruit on a tray, I walk to my office. Before I take a seat, I run a hand through my long hair, twirl it up into a bun and grab a pen to secure it.

“Time to get this party started,” I say out loud.

It’s Friday which means, it’s going to be a long day. My clients expect a lot from me. They send a big to-do list and expect me to finish it before five—their time.

As usual, I start answering each message by time zone and then, I check in with my team. Everyone is already working and tackling whatever this Friday has to serve us. As a virtual assistant, Fridays are like Mondays, just super-sized. There’s always an emergency that requires more than one person to fix it. And who do they call? Me.





*



From: J. Spearman

To: A. Walker

Subject: Morning duties

Friday, April 15th, 7:26 a.m.



Where is my coffee? I thought you guessed your client’s needs and I need my coffee right about now. Also, thank you for getting my brother an appointment with Dr. Billaud. He’s seeing him next Monday. I heard he’s one of the best sports medicine doctors in the country. I’m not sure how you did it, but I owe you one.



I pause, taking a sip of my coffee and enjoying those words. He owes me one. One favor. I smile and look at Ramen who finally appears from wherever she decided to hide during the night.

“Hey, gorgeous girl,” I greet her. “Did you finally decide to grace us with your presence?”

“Meow,” she says getting ready to jump onto my desk.

I pick up my tablet and set it on the stand. I better start working from the remote unit because this kitty is about to pounce on my laptop, and she won’t let me work on it for a couple of hours. Once I finish setting up, I return to the email.



Attached is the list for today’s duties. I saw that you scheduled a lunch outside the office. Though, it’s not ideal, I appreciate you made reservations at a small restaurant. Please, let me know if you have time to work on Sunday. Mr. Genji and I have a conference call, and I heard you speak Japanese. It would be great if you could take notes for me.



Enjoy your Friday,



J



P. S. How are Sushi and Ramen today?





*



From: A. Walker

To: J. Spearman

Subject: Duties and favors

Friday, April 15th, 8:00 a.m.



Your coffee should be there by now. Unfortunately, my magic 8 ball broke yesterday, and I forgot my tarot cards at home. Why are you in the office so early? Did you skip your workout?

This Sunday, like most Sundays, I’m off. If you don’t mind, I’ll reschedule your call, and I’ll be your translator. It’s a lot easier if we cut the middle man. Mariko, his assistant, and I hit it off the last time we were on the phone.



I cashed in a favor for you, don’t forget it when I ask you to sell me your first A.I. for one of my clients. I’ll start working on your list.



Amy



P. S. Sushi refuses to work, and Ramen just woke up and is taking a nap on my keyboard.



P. S. 2 Music always sounds better on Friday. —Lou Brutus



AWalk90 sent you a playlist





*



From F. Everhart

To: A Walker

Subject: Legal advice and clients

Friday, April 15th, 8:24 a.m.



I have a few depositions that need your attention, would you mind taking care of them today? If you need me, I’ll be in San Francisco all weekend surfing. Also, the Spearman case is dealt with. Thank you for finding me a new client—not that I needed him. I owe you one.