The women looked at James. All of them appeared concerned and uneasy.

James held his breath for a second before replying, “If everything goes smoothly, I’ll be able to return after New Year’s Day.”

The Mount Thunder Conference fell on Christmas.

It was only a few days away from the new year.

The conference would last longer than a mere few days.

If everything proceeded as planned, James could return after the new year.

If not…

James did not dare to think about the worst case scenario beca