He walked to the front and stopped before me, a dazzling smile spreading across his face.
"Chairman Dickerson."
His voice rang out, vibrating with barely contained excitement.
I said nothing more. I simply gestured toward the box on the podium.
Dean stepped forward and lifted the velvet box with both hands.
It was lighter than expected.
A flicker of confusion crossed his face, but it was quickly buried beneath a fresh wave of anticipation.
He turned to face the audience, holding the box aloft like a trophy. His gaze found Mary's direction for a brief, triumphant moment.
Then, projecting to the entire room, he declared:
"Thank you, Chairman Dickerson! Thank you for the company's recognition! I will continue to work hard and never disappoint this... special favor the company has shown me!"
Scattered applause trickled through the audience.
It was obvious—he wasn't well-liked here.
In her seat, Mary's face relaxed into a relieved smile. She clapped along, soft and measured.
Dean, brimming with self-satisfaction, couldn't wait any longer. His fingers attacked the silver ribbon.
They trembled slightly with excitement, and it took him several seconds to undo the elegant knot.