They arrived at a small, elegant café, the kind of place where Katherina could never imagine herself spending time. Over cappuccinos and pastries she couldn’t pronounce, Michael unveiled his plan. He wanted to offer her a job—an actual job, one that involved more than just mops and dusters. He needed someone with her presence of mind and courage to work within his personal team.

“Why?” Katherina asked, still trying to wrap her head around the situation.

“I believe in rewarding merit, and what you did—saving my life—was extraordinary. I trust you, and I need people I can trust,” he replied, his gaze steady and sincere.