Chapter 2: The Charity Gala
At 5:30 in the evening, Benjamin entered the building through the loading dock.
The city skyline outside was painted orange by the setting sun. Chicago’s tallest buildings reflected the last light of the day as workers prepared for the biggest event of the year.
Benjamin greeted everyone he passed.
He asked the security guard about his daughter’s nursing program.
He congratulated a maintenance worker on his upcoming retirement.
He remembered names that most executives never bothered to learn.
That was who Benjamin was.
He believed every person deserved respect, no matter their position.
Forty floors above him, the atmosphere was completely different.
The charity gala was filled with wealthy donors, business leaders, and executives. The room was decorated with flowers, expensive artwork, and endless glasses of champagne.
Running the event was Craig Holloway, the head of operations.
Craig was known for his confidence, his expensive watch, and his habit of treating employees like they were beneath him.
He believed power came from making others feel small.
Beside him was Tiffany Driscoll, a senior executive who laughed at his jokes and followed his lead.
Together, they controlled the room.