By eight fifty-five the studio was quiet except for the amplifier and the small click of the computer mouse.

Marcus stood near the door while I set the recording levels.

I played the opening chords of the new song, stopped, and listened to the playback.

The microphone had picked up more of the amplifier hiss than I wanted.

I moved the stand half an inch and tried again.

Marcus checked his watch.

“You need me to stay?”

“No.