I bit back a retort, refusing to give him what he wanted, proof that he had any importance to me. He adjusted his jacket and tie, walking toward the door with triumph. Outside, I could hear him addressing the team. "All right, guys, we’re wrapping this up tomorrow morning. I’ve got to head to a dinner with the client tonight." "All right, boss.“ “ All right, boss," came the chorus of responses. The team entered the room to collect their things—laptops, files, and whatever else they had brought. They didn’t say a word to me, acting as if I didn’t exist. It was like Eric had trained them to ignore me entirely and act like I didn't exist. I knew it was something I’d have to deal with eventually. These people were supposed to be my team too, and I had to lead them. It was not going to be

