6:10 a.m.

The suitcases were neatly arranged near the door, and the digital boarding passes were stored on their phones.

"I’ve sent all the documents to the Canadian team. They’re ready to pick us up at the airport," said Nathan as he checked the schedule.

Elena slipped the tablet into her handbag. “Our presentation is at 4 PM Vancouver time. We still have enough time for a quick layover.”

Suddenly, Nathan’s phone rang. The screen displayed Mrs. Sonia’s name—his mother.

"Hello, Mom?"

"Nathan!" Mrs. Sonia’s voice sounded panicked. "Your grandmother... your grandmother had a heart attack, son. We’re at the hospital now. Where are you?!"

Nathan stood up immediately, his...