He leaned toward me and spoke loudly enough for the surrounding tables to hear every single word he said. “The draft you sent for the Tokyo keynote was brilliant, especially the section about innovation being born from silence,” he remarked.
Jeffrey looked like he was about to faint as he asked how it was possible that I had written that famous speech. Xavier laughed and told him that people at his level do not write their own material because they hire the absolute best talent available.
“Your sister is the best in the business,” Xavier added while I watched the color drain from my brother’s face. Jeffrey asked if I really worked for him and I explained that I worked for many high-profile leaders who valued my perspective.
“My schedule is booked through next year, but I always make time for Xavier because he respects the craft,” I said. Xavier nodded in agreement and told everyone within earshot that my work was worth every penny he paid.
A few executives tried to approach the table to pitch their ideas to him, but he told them he was busy coloring and they would have to email him later. They backed away in embarrassment while Jeffrey stood there looking like a broken statue.