Then back at her.
"When did you—"
"Effective today."
Ryan suddenly remembered everything he'd said.
"I'm the boss here."
"That office isn't yours."
"You're new."
"So move."
His face became increasingly uncomfortable.
"I didn't know."
Maya nodded.
"I know."
Ryan lowered his eyes.
"I'm sorry, Chief."
Maya looked at him.
"Do you know what concerns me?"
Ryan shook his head.
"You weren't disrespectful because you knew who I was."
She closed the appointment folder.
"You were disrespectful because you thought I wasn't important."
Ryan had no response.
Maya continued.
"That's the part I want you to remember."
Ryan expected punishment.
Instead, Maya asked him to remain in the office.
"Sit down."
Ryan sat.
Maya remained standing for a moment before taking the chair behind the desk.
"I've spent the last several weeks reviewing this station."
Ryan listened carefully.
"You have experience here."
"Yes, Chief."
"You know the officers."
"Yes."
"You know the procedures."
"Yes."
Maya nodded.
"That experience can be valuable."
Ryan looked relieved.
"But experience doesn't make someone the boss."
Ryan lowered his eyes.
"I understand."
"Authority comes with responsibility."
Maya opened another folder.
"I expect every officer here to follow orders."
Ryan nodded.