Jacob wasn't really concerned with the invitation. He wouldn't be going anyway, and he wouldn't tell Elaine about it.

Right now, he had a question.

After hanging up on Walker, he asked curiously, "A designated driver would be just a few dozen bucks at most. Why get Walker?"

Mr. Bay sighed meaningfully. "Jacob, my boy—it's not just my job description you must handle when you succeed me. You must understand the unspoken rules of the workplace as well as interpersonal relationships."

Raising his right index finger, he chuckled, "Earning the loyalty of subordinates is a science. But it has to be a carrot and stick—never just the carrot, while offering them chances to be of service."

"Take Walker, for example. As his boss, buying him lunch is 5 points. Ask for a favor, but it's 50 points instead!"

"As a leader, you should also make sure to give requests that are reasonable. That way, they will consider you to be their ally, or soon enough."

"People are strange that way—psychology sim