Page 37 of Executive Privilege

"Well, yesterday's session went so well, I thought we might do something more challenging today. Maybe have you and Nicholas tackle the advanced route together? Show theteamwork and trust that Event Horizons brings to client relationships."

My stomach drops. "I'm not sure that's necessary—"

"It would make excellent content," Morrison continues enthusiastically. "Two professionals supporting each other, demonstrating the kind of partnership Morrison Industries values. Nicholas seemed hesitant yesterday, but I've been watching him and his back seems fine. I'm sure with your expertise guiding him..."

I glance across the lodge toward Nicholas, who's deep in conversation with Sarah but somehow still aware of what's happening around him. He can't hear Morrison's suggestion from where he's sitting, but something in his posture suggests he knows he's being discussed.

"Mr. Morrison," I say carefully, "I think Nicholas prefers to document the activities rather than participate directly."

"Nonsense. Yesterday was just nerves. Today, with a partner he trusts, I'm sure he'll be more comfortable."

He pauses and give me a meaningful look. "The reason I do these retreats is so that everyone leaves feeling they've achieved something. That they've grown and leave stronger than they came as a group, and individually. Trust me, he should do it."

He will just not let this go. I take back the kind dad thoughts I was having. But then again, he seems to understand what's happening with Nicholas and he's giving him a push, just like a dad would do.

Before I can find a way to deflect, Morrison is already walking toward Nicholas with the kind of determined enthusiasm that spells trouble.

"Nicholas!" Morrison calls out, interrupting Nicholas's conversation. "Perfect timing. I was just discussing this afternoon's climbing demonstration with Sadie."

I watch Nicholas's expression shift almost imperceptibly—a tightening around his eyes, a slight tension in his jaw that most people would miss but I've learned to recognize.

"What kind of demonstration?" Nicholas asks, his voice professionally neutral.

"You and Sadie tackling the advanced route together. Teamwork, trust, professional partnership in action. It'll be perfect for the campaign narrative."

The silence stretches for just a moment too long before Nicholas responds. "I appreciate the suggestion, but I think we've captured sufficient climbing content—"

"Come on," Morrison interrupts with a laugh. "Where's your sense of adventure? Sadie's an expert, you'll be perfectly safe."

"It's not about safety," Nicholas says, and there's something sharper in his voice now.

"Then what's the problem?"

I can see Nicholas struggling between his professional obligations and his personal boundaries. Morrison isn't being malicious, but he's also not accepting no for an answer, and Nicholas is caught between looking weak in front of a client and facing something that clearly makes him uncomfortable.

"There's no problem," Nicholas says finally, his professional mask sliding back into place. "If you think it would be valuable for the campaign, we can certainly arrange something."

"Excellent! Sadie, you can walk him through the route beforehand, make sure he's comfortable with the holds."

After Morrison walks away, clearly pleased with himself, I approach Nicholas with careful steps.

"You don't have to do this," I say quietly.

"Morrison's right. I should just man up and do it."

"Nicholas, look at me." I wait until his dark eyes meet mine. "You don't have to prove anything to Morrison. Or to me. Or to anyone."

"I'm not trying to prove anything."

"Then why did you agree?"

He sighs. "Because sometimes professional obligations require personal sacrifices."

"This isn't a sacrifice, it's torture. I can see how uncomfortable you are."

"I can handle discomfort, Sadie."

"I know you can. But you shouldn't have to."