“The revised proposal is stronger,” he said.
“Thank you.”
“The supplier evaluation is more defensible, and your team’s contributions are clearer.”
Brandon nodded.
Then Daniel continued.
“We’ve decided to open the leadership position to a broader set of candidates rather than appoint someone immediately. You’ll be considered on the same basis as the other applicants.”
Brandon’s stomach tightened.
He’d hoped the role was nearly his.
But no appointment had been promised.
“Understood,” he said.
“In the meantime, you’ll continue in your current position. I want you and Priya to test the revised approach with a small group of prospective partners.”
“I can do that.”
Daniel closed his folder.
“Brandon, Saturday didn’t determine this decision by itself. The acquisition requires a leader who can evaluate unfamiliar companies fairly and give a team credit for its work. Your original proposal had weaknesses, and your revisions give us a better starting point.”
Brandon nodded.
“I understand.”
He hesitated.
Then he asked, “Mr. Carter, can I ask you something?”
“Certainly.”
“Why didn’t you tell Vanessa who you were immediately?”
Daniel considered the question.
“I was invited to a party. I was standing in a room where I belonged. I didn’t expect to have to explain my employment history to justify staying.”
Brandon looked down.
Daniel continued.
“I prefer comfortable clothes. I also wanted to meet people before the formal introduction. But I wasn’t arranging a test, and I didn’t expect anyone to confront me.”
“Would it have mattered if you were a catering employee?”
“That’s the question I’d hoped someone would ask before threatening to remove me.”
Brandon gave a small, embarrassed smile.
“I should have asked it sooner.”
Daniel stood and offered his hand.
