“This is what you’ve always wanted, Raj. How many times have we talked about your love for philanthropy? Between Gen One and your other charitable efforts with the New York City animal shelters, you should be leading your own foundation, and that’s what I’m offering you. You’re also young, resilient, and you don’t put up with the bullshit. Gen One will flourish under your leadership.”

“That’s a hard sell, Kia, but—”

“But nothing. The organization was started to help save lives. The job training workshops we do, the language classes, the networking seminars. You’ve experienced it in a very real way. This is your comfort zone and one of your passions. Your company isn’t your passion. All you have to do is accept the offer.”

RKH Collective may not have been her passion, but it was her greatest accomplishment. The idea of letting it go felt like a sharp dagger through her heart.

But Kia was right, too. Raj loved working with Gen One, just like she loved working with her animal shelter projects. They were two things she handled personally.

“I’ll . . . think about it,” she finally said.

“Good.” Kia squeezed her fingers one last time and stepped back. “I do have a word of warning and a word of advice for you if you’re going to take the position.”

“I’m listening.”

“I know that you and your husband are . . . discreet,” Kia began with a thin smile. “We have known each other for a long time, so I’m aware of how you live your life, and honestly, it’s your life to live. But there is a reason why you and Robert are so quiet about the way you conduct your marriage, isn’t there?”

Raj felt the hairs on the back of her neck rise when she realized where Kia was going with this conversation. “Coming from India, working in a male dominated field, I am forced to accept that we still live in a patriarchal society. I am judged for my actions because I’m a woman.”

“And a woman of color at that,” Kia said.

“Exactly. Men won’t give me their money if they disapprove of my lifestyle. I don’t like it, but I’ve had to be discreet, because honestly, discretion is a small price to pay for success.”

“Donors of the foundation are also very conservative. The deeper the pockets, the more judgmental the person. You have to show the world you’re practically a saint if you want to keep the money rolling in. Being discreet isn’t nearly enough if you want the job.”

“Are you sure you want me to take this job, Kia?”

Kia nodded. “If the donors find your secrets, you’ll be asked to step down. But I know that despite everything I’m telling you, you’re the best person for the job.”