I was the CEO of a high-profile company, used to commanding respect and authority in every boardroom meeting. She was my dedicated assistant, known for her impeccable organizational skills and sharp intellect. Our professional relationship had always been efficient and respectful, but recently, there was an unspoken tension between us. And neither of us ever discussed the tension between us.

One late evening in the office, after most of the staff had left, we were alone. She was finishing up some reports, and I was reviewing the latest project updates.

I looked up from my desk, my gaze lingering on her as she worked. "You’ve been putting in a lot of extra hours lately. How about taking a break? I can handle things from here."