I swallowed.
“Should I be afraid of you?”
For the first time, he looked genuinely troubled.
“You have every reason to be cautious around someone you don’t know.”
That wasn’t the answer I’d expected.
He continued.
“But nobody in this room is going to force you to leave with anyone. You can call someone you trust, ask us to call the police, or leave on your own when you feel safe.”
I stared.
“Why are you helping me?”
He looked toward the closed office door.
“Because a man came into my office and tried to decide what another person was allowed to do.”
Something unreadable passed through his eyes.
“I’ve seen what happens when people mistake control for love.”
Before I could respond, the door opened.
A middle-aged Black woman entered carrying a blanket, bottled water, and a small medical kit.
She introduced herself as Camille Roberts, Damien’s operations manager.
