“That addresses what she did. I’m asking what you believe.”
Brandon glanced at Vanessa.
Then toward Graham.
“I believe everyone deserves respect.”
Daniel waited.
Brandon added, “Regardless of their position.”
Vanessa stared at him.
“Are you serious?”
He turned.
“What?”
“You were laughing when I made that joke about the valet outside.”
Brandon’s expression changed.
Graham raised an eyebrow.
“What joke?”
Vanessa looked suddenly uncertain.
Brandon spoke.
“It wasn’t important.”
Daniel didn’t press her to repeat it.
Instead, he asked Brandon, “Was the valet doing anything improper?”
“No.”
“Then we don’t need the joke.”
Vanessa folded her arms.
“This is ridiculous. Everybody makes jokes about people.”
“Sometimes,” Graham replied. “And sometimes those jokes tell people what you actually think.”
Brandon stared at the carpet.
Daniel moved toward the desk.
“Graham, could you give us a few minutes? I’d like to discuss the Monday presentation with Brandon.”
Graham nodded.
“Of course.”
He looked at Vanessa.
