Chapter 11 - Thomas says no again
I invited Thomas to Evelyn’s office.
He hated elevators.
He did not admit that.
I noticed.
We sat.
Evelyn explained the possible stewardship role in plain English.
Thomas stared.
Then:
“No.”
I almost laughed.
“You don’t know the compensation.”
“I don’t care.”
“Why?”
“Because I fix boilers.”
“You were a fleet mechanic.”
“Same philosophy. Bigger pipes.”
Evelyn said:
“You would not manage investments. You would be one of several oversight roles.”
“Why me?”
I answered.
“Because you came toward me when there was nothing to gain.”
He looked angry.
“That doesn’t make me qualified.”
Good answer.
I said:
“Then become qualified.”
He shook his head.
“You rich guys think everything is a job somebody can train into.”
“Most things are.”
“Being your moral symbol isn’t.”
Silence.
That landed.
I had been turning Thomas into a lesson for my sons.
Unfair.
He stood.
“Arthur, I’ll come to dinner. I’ll argue with you. I’ll help if you’re having another heart attack because apparently your family is busy.”
Evelyn nearly smiled.
“But I’m not being the homeless guy who inherits the kingdom because it makes a good story.”
Then he left.
I sat.
Evelyn said:
“I like him.”
“Everyone does.”
“No. I like that he keeps saying no to you.”
May you like
So did I.
Eventually.
