The invitation arrived three days later.
The Harrington Foundation Annual Gala.
Black tie. Press coverage. Investors. Political figures. CEOs.
Visibility at its most deliberate.
I stood in Julian's office as he reviewed the embossed envelope on his desk. "You're attending," he said without looking up.
"That wasn't a question," I replied.
"No."
I folded my arms lightly. "You usually go alone."
"Yes."
"And this year?"
"This year, you are coming with me."
The decision was made before the sentence ended.
I studied him carefully. "As what?"
His eyes lifted to mine. Calm. Direct.
"As my Executive Strategy Liaison."
"And unofficially?"
A pause.
"As someone whose position I do not intend to hide."
The room seemed to still for half a second.
"You're aware this will confirm specul
