Edward had initially objected.
He worried that Daniel would face unnecessary difficulties.
But his son insisted.
"I want to understand how the business works from the bottom up."
Edward eventually agreed.
He arranged for Daniel to enter the company through the normal recruitment process.
The human resources department received a standard application.
Daniel completed the interviews.
He accepted an entry-level position.
And for almost a year, he worked without using his father's name.
Edward respected his decision.
He also wanted to see whether the hotel had created a fair environment for employees.
He had received several anonymous complaints about Vanessa's management style.
Some employees described her as intimidating.
Others claimed she regularly humiliated staff members.
Edward had decided to visit the property personally.
He had no intention of announcing himself.
He wanted to observe the workplace as it really was.
He had not expected to find his own son standing in the middle of a public confrontation.
And he certainly had not expected to discover how far Vanessa's behavior had gone.
CHAPTER 4: THE PHONE IN HIS HAND
Vanessa was now visibly irritated.
She turned toward the older man.
"Sir, I have already asked you not to interfere."
Edward remained calm.
"I'm not interfering. I'm asking a reasonable question."
"This is a private hotel."
"Yes, I know."
"Then you should respect our management decisions."
Edward looked around the lobby.
"Is publicly humiliating an employee part of your management policy?"
Vanessa's jaw tightened.
"That's enough."
She turned toward Daniel.
"Go back to work."
Daniel nodded.
"Yes, ma'am."
But before he could move, Edward raised his hand.
"Wait."
He looked at the young employee.
"Daniel, how long have you worked here?"
"Almost one year, sir."
"Do you enjoy your job?"
Daniel hesitated.
"Yes, most of the time."
Edward smiled.
"That's good."
Vanessa interrupted.
"Mr. Carter has responsibilities he needs to complete. He doesn't have time to stand here answering personal questions."
Edward nodded.
"You're right. Let's discuss something more important."
He reached into his jacket and removed his smartphone.
Vanessa watched him.
"Who are you calling?"
Edward didn't answer immediately.
He selected a contact and pressed the call button.
The phone rang.
A familiar voice answered.
"Good morning, Mr. Harrison."
Edward spoke clearly.
"Michael, I'm at the Grand Royal."
The voice immediately became attentive.
"Good morning, sir. Is everything all right?"
"No. I'd like you to come down to the lobby."
"Certainly. I'll be there in a moment."
Edward ended the call.