During my job interview,the department head,Richard Baxter,found an excuse to deliberately grazed my chest.
Throughout my internship,he’d“accidentally”pat my butt.
When it came time for my permanent position evaluation,he hinted that staying meant sexual favors.

Later,at a company event,he tried drunkenly to kiss me in front of everyone.I slapped him,and he sneered,saying women are all duplicitous—rejecting advances either out of ignorance or as playing hard to get.
I snapped back,“This is workplace sexual harassment.Maybe reflect on your own morals and violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act in the workplace!”
I despised Richard Baxter.Almost everyone in the department could see it,but he remained smug and unbothered.
As my internship neared its end,as the permanent hiring decision approached,the department celebrated a major project’s success with a party.
The event was held in a private room at a hotel we often worked with.Richard,of course,seized the chance  to harass female subordinates.
I lingered at the back,hoping to grab an inconspicuous seat,but Richard’s chubby hand waved me over.“Emma Clarke,you played a big part in this project’s success.Come,sit next to me.”

The lively atmosphere froze for a moment.Everyone knew his intentions,but someone quickly broke the silence.
“Mr.Baxter cares so much for every employee.It really brings us togetherwith forced enthusiasm!”
“What a stellar manager,juggling work and looking out for his team!”
I’d just found a decent spot and stood my ground,refusing to move closer.

“Mr.Baxter,this was a team effort.I’m just an intern—my contribution was minor.”
Richard’s brow furrowed,but he said nothing.
Colleagues smoothed things over.“Mr.Baxter,you’re practically handpicked by the VP’s wife’s cousin—talented and capable.That seat next to you isn’t for just anyone!”
“Does your wife know you’re here?”
Richard let out a cold laugh, which cut off their subtle sarcasm.
“Emma,you’re well aware you’re an intern.You demonstrate true commitment.
. Don’t think a few accomplishments make you untouchable.Whether you stay depends on your performance—and my vision.”
“So,Mr.Baxter,you’re saying I have to please you to stay?You alone decide all personnel matters?”
I swallowed my disgust,cutting off his shameless spiel.
The room went silent,colleagues exchanging awkward glances.
Richard was about to explode when someone pushed him back into his seat.
“Mr.Baxter,it’s a celebration.Don’t make everyone uncomfortable.”
It was my team leader,Olivia Grant-a driven career woman with a commanding presence,respected by the VP and a college friend of Richard’s wife.Richard was wary of her.
“Let's keep the party going—drink,drink!”
“Thanks to Mr.Baxter’s good leadership,a toast to him!”
The tension was quickly brushed aside.
But Richard wasn’t done.After a few rounds of drinks,he plopped down beside me with a glass in hand.
“Emma,you refused to sit by me,so I’ll sit by you.I will give enough consideration for you.Drink this.”
“I’m driving,Mr.Baxter.Can’t drink.Sorry.”I didn’t take the glass.
“Women are always acting difficult,putting on an act of being unattainable.
.I know you’re teasing me with that fake modesty.You’ve got my attention—stop acting coy.”
He shoved the glass toward my lips,insisting I drink.
I pushed it away;he pushed back harder.
My anger boiled over.Did he think everyone owed him deference?
The more I resisted,the more excited he got,his eyes gleaming with lust,as if he enjoyed my defiance.
His lusty grin widened as he leaned closer,his alcohol-stained lips nearing mine.I snatched the glass,splashed it over his head,and slapped him hard.
The force knocked his glasses off .
It was the most satisfying moment since I joined the company,releasing half a year’s worth of pent-up frustration.
Richard,stunned and furious,roared,“Emma,don’t push your luck!You’re done here!”
“We’ll see who’s done!”