He pulled out his phone and called Kael directly.
"Asher? Is everything okay?"
"Did you reassign me to work with Damian Cross?"
Silence. Then, carefully: "He requested someone from marketing to work closely with him on the tech launch. Your name came up as the most qualified."
"And you just agreed? Without asking me?"
"I thought it would be good for your career. Damian specifically said he was impressed with your work."
"I don't want to work with him."
"Why not?" Kael's tone shifted, became more alert. "Did something happen? Did he do something?"
"I just don't want to be reassigned. I like working on your projects."
The words came out before he could stop them.
Silence on the other end. Then, quietly: "You do?"
"The work. I like the work."
"Right. The work." Kael sounded almost disappointed. "Look, if you're really uncomfortable, I can talk to Damian. Suggest someone else."
"Yes. Please."
"Okay. I'll handle it Monday morning."
"Thank you."
