Ah, the modern ritual. Another Monday, another Zoom meeting. The familiar hum of shared screens and corporate jargon. Our protagonist, Alex, was doing their best. Truly. But focus, like a shy cat, often wanders. Soon, the mind drifted. Away from budget projections and synergy. To a sun-drenched beach, perhaps. Or the perfect, unbitten sandwich. Anywhere but the pixelated grid. The room, the desk, the headphones—all faded. A blissful, silent escape. Then, a sharp, sudden jolt. A familiar face, perfectly framed, staring. A question, unspoken but undeniably clear: 'Alex? Are you with us?' The abrupt return to reality. A scramble to appear deeply engaged. A swift nod, a forced, knowing smile. Back to the meeting. The endless loop, until the next great escape.