Chapter 11 - THE MAN WHO LEARNED TO ASK
Kate returned to work three months later.
Her arm had healed.
She still attended physical therapy.
But she could move without constant pain.
Damon offered her a promotion.
Director of Household Events.
Higher salary.
Full benefits.
More authority.
Kate read the contract carefully.
Then looked at him.
“Why?”
He smiled.
“Because you've been doing the job for months.”
She considered.
Then said:
“I want one condition.”
Damon raised an eyebrow.
“Only one?”
She smiled.
“For now.”
He leaned back.
“Name it.”
“No employee should ever have to choose between reporting an assault and keeping their job.”
Damon nodded.
“Agreed.”
Kate continued.
“And complaints should go to an independent investigator.”
“Agreed.”
“And managers need training.”
“Agreed.”
She stared.
“You're making this suspiciously easy.”
Damon smiled.
“I'm learning.”
Then his expression softened.
“Kate, may I ask you something personal?”
She hesitated.
Then nodded.
“Would you have dinner with me?”
Her heart quickened.
“As your employee?”
He shook his head.
“No.”
She looked at him.
“Then as what?”
Damon smiled.
“As a man who would like to know you better.”
Kate took a breath.
May you like
Then smiled.
“Yes.”
