Starting at seven, leaving at four

Shadow Chen first. His request is well built: he explains the reason, offers a plan, and keeps the total hours the same. Say "Same hours, different times" slowly and clearly; it's the line that makes the answer yes. Then take Li Na's part. She's open and practical; "I don't see why not" should sound relaxed.

1. ChenLi Na, could I talk to you about my schedule? It's a little personal.
2. Li NaOf course. Is everything okay?
3. ChenYes, everything's fine. My son starts at a new school in Shanghai next month. It finishes at four fifteen.
4. Li NaAnd you finish at six.
5. ChenRight. My wife works at the hospital until eight, so someone has to pick him up.
6. Li NaI see. What are you thinking?
7. ChenCould I start at seven instead of nine, and leave at four? Same hours, different times.
8. Li NaI don't see why not. We do allow flexible hours. You'd need to be here for core hours, though.
9. ChenTen to three, right? That works.
10. Li NaWhat about the Thursday team meeting? It's at four thirty.
11. ChenThat's the difficult one. Could I join by phone from the school gate?
12. Li NaHonestly, I'd rather move the meeting. Three o'clock works for most people.
13. ChenYou'd move it for me?
14. Li NaNot only for you. Half the team stays late because of that meeting. Nobody likes it.
15. ChenAnd if something urgent comes up in the afternoon, I'll make up the time in the evening from home.
16. Li NaThat's fair. Let's try it for a month and see how it goes.
17. ChenThank you, Li Na. I was really worried about asking.