He nodded.
“I understand.”
Elena continued.
“I'm proud of my work at the restaurant. I earn my living there. The people beside me in that kitchen are skilled and hardworking.”
Her voice remained calm.
“None of us should have to reveal university degrees before guests treat us respectfully.”
Antoine lowered his eyes.
She continued.
“I want you to understand that the problem wasn't simply that you underestimated me.”
He looked toward her.
“The problem was that you believed you could humiliate someone because you expected her to have less power than you.”
The room became quiet.
Professor Ibarra watched without interfering.
Antoine looked toward Elena.
For the first time, he seemed unable to produce a clever reply.
Then he nodded.
“You're right.”
Elena took a slow breath.
“I appreciate your apology.”
Antoine looked relieved.
But she continued.
“I hope it changes how you treat the next person who serves your dinner.”
His expression became thoughtful.
Then he answered quietly.
“So do I.”
For several seconds, neither spoke.
Finally, Antoine reached toward the folder beside him.
“I also came to settle the wager.”
Elena looked down.
Inside were documents prepared by counsel describing an agreed payment of one hundred thousand US dollars in recognition of the wager he'd made and the standards the participants agreed she'd satisfied.
The arrangements were designed to record the payment appropriately.
They did not require Elena to withdraw complaints, limit her research, remain silent about the dinner, or make any representation that the company's investment materials were accurate.
She read the documents with her adviser.
Asked several questions.
And requested clarification about one provision concerning public statements.
The lawyers revised the language.
Then she agreed.
Antoine watched the process.
For a moment, he smiled faintly.
“You examine documents very carefully.”
Elena looked toward him.
“I've learned that it's useful.”
He gave a short laugh.
Then nodded.
“Yes.”
Once the terms were settled, he asked whether she would consider donating the money to an educational charity.
Elena looked surprised.
“Why?”
He hesitated.
“I thought it might be a fitting use.”
She considered the suggestion.
Then answered gently.
“That's a decision I'll make after I've considered my obligations.”
Antoine nodded immediately.
“Of course.”
She continued.
“My mother needs help. I have educational expenses. And I haven't had the security to plan more than a few months ahead.”
For several seconds, he remained quiet.