Page 62 of The Examiner

Candidate number: 0883483

Introduction:

Jem says our brains listen to our heartbeat all the time, even while we’re sleeping, so we’re naturally tuned in to sound and rhythm. It’s why a gentle, regular beat is soothing. If the beat slows, our heart slows too, because it instinctively matches the rhythm and flow of other hearts. I was excited for our project, but unprepared for how this team would change me. Our heartbeats merged and, in the process, we were all reshaped and twisted.

The team:

Teamwork is the essence of humanity, is it not? Many hands make light work. You can’t break a stick in a bundle. Group-think. I come from a business background and that means putting aside your feelings to make difficult decisions. Say someone in the team messes up. They make a humdinger of a booboo and there’s no going back. Doesn’t matter how much you like them, how good they are at their job – they have to go. If you make excuses to let them stay, you will regret it. The decision will haunt you, it will be used against you and it will destroy you.

Doodle message group [Private] Patrick and Jem, 17 January 2024:

Patrick Bright

There’s been a big row over the room. I’m happy to sleep in the car, but Cameron isn’t. Ludya’s desperate to get home, but there’s not enough charge in the people-carrier. She’s so tired she burst into tears. We’ve all been drinking, so will have to wait till one of us sobers up enough to drive. Cameron has only just tested under the limit, but we don’t want to risk him getting behind the wheel too soon, so we’re giving it a bit longer. Can’t message any more. Things are very strained.

Jem Badhuri

That’s hilarious! OMG, what a disaster! See you tomorrow – well, today now.

Doodle message group [Private] Jem and Gela, 17 January 2024:

Jem Badhuri

Hi Gela, lovely to work with you yesterday. I much prefer one-to-one interactions, and this construction project is totally my thing. I’ve had a lot of art tutors in my time, but you are by far the most inspiring.

Gela Nathaniel

Good. I enjoyed working with you too. Best get some sleep, though, we’ve got another busy day tomorrow.

Jem Badhuri

I’ve heard from Patrick and apparently the trip to Somerset is turning into a disaster. There was a big mix-up over the room, followed by an even bigger row, and now Cameron has to drive them all home as Ludya is so upset.

Gela Nathaniel

If the sourcing team visited the museum and collected the material as planned, then it was a successful excursion.

Doodle message group [Private] Gela and Cameron, 17 January 2024:

Gela Nathaniel

You’re coming back tonight now?

Gela Nathaniel

Of course you’re driving, so can’t answer.

Cameron Wesley

Yes. Driving back. Will drop the loot off at RH shortly.

Gela Nathaniel

But it’s nearly 2 a.m. What happened? What was the row about?

Cameron Wesley

Will bring you up to speed soon.