"Yep," she confirms. A pause follows, and then, "I wonder if Merritt managed to get ahold of Agent Dray ... "

You know, without giving her a mini-heart attack, when she saw who was calling. She also wonders if Alma can take a vacation on such short notice, not sure what you have to do for leave like that in a professional setting and overseas, both. In her experience -- well, you don't really call out or ask for time off, as a stage magician. You just sort of plan things around shows and rehearsals, and if you get sick? The show must go on. She's not particularly bitter or upset about that, though. Such is the life she chose, and she's fine with it. She just has no basis for comparison.