Scenario 12
The Neighbor with the Drill
READ
Avery worked from home and had an important online meeting scheduled for two o'clock. That morning, a new neighbor, Paul, began assembling shelves in the apartment next door. The sound of a drill came through the wall in short bursts. Avery could hear it clearly from the desk.
At lunchtime, Avery knocked on Paul's door and mentioned the meeting. Paul explained that a friend was helping him and could stay only until three. Several heavy pieces were already spread across the floor. He wanted to finish while he had assistance and said the building allowed daytime noise.
Avery's meeting involved presenting work to several people. Moving to the bedroom would mean using a small table and a weaker internet connection. A nearby cafe was usually crowded, and Avery had materials on the desk that would be difficult to carry. Paul said they would try to keep the drilling brief.
At one fifty, the drill started again. Avery placed headphones beside the computer and checked the microphone. Through the wall came the sound of furniture being moved. Paul's friend then knocked on Avery's door to ask whether there was a level they could borrow. The meeting invitation was already open on Avery's screen.
THINK AND RESPOND
What would you do?
If you could offer advice to one of the characters, who would it be and why?
