And ensure she receives a full corporate stipend for management training, so that she has every resource she needs to succeed in a role she has, frankly, already proven she deserves.”

Arthur smiled, a real smile now, the relief of a man watching justice arrive.

“Consider it done, Mrs.

Vance.” And across the lobby, Lupita’s hands flew to her mouth, and her eyes filled, as she understood what was happening, that the small kindness she had offered without any thought of reward, the kindness that had nearly gotten her scolded and sent back to her floor, was being met not with the trouble she had braced for but with the transformation of her entire life.

Clara did not linger over it.