had filled in the gaps. Perhaps the company was reorganizing. Perhaps my position was changing. I even wondered whether the folder I had seen contained a formal notice about my employment. I knew I had worked hard, but I also understood that business decisions were sometimes made for reasons unrelated to an individual’s effort. I decided not to ask questions without knowing more. Instead, I focused on my responsibilities and made sure everything scheduled for the following week was organized.
Friday arrived slowly. At four o’clock, I collected my bag and waited in the lobby. Richard appeared a few minutes later, carrying his familiar coat. Rather than directing the driver toward a restaurant or another office, he asked to be taken to a small park nearby. We walked along a quiet path until we reached a bench beneath a large tree. For several moments, he said nothing. Then he turned
