At precisely 7 a.m., Emily and Bert stood in the hotel lobby, waiting.

The tour guide, holding a small red flag, noticed them and waved excitedly. “Miss Carter!”

Emily smiled warmly and waved back. “Good morning, Mr. Anderson.”

“Good morning! I can’t believe you’re here earlier than I am.” The guide had a large backpack slung over his shoulder and was juggling several maps and a notebook in his hands.

“Well, didn’t you say we needed to gather at seven?”

“Yes, but our ...