This was also an opportunity that could determine promotions. Brad was one of the first to volunteer. “I’ll lead this,” he said grandly, glancing at Ethan. “You handle the data, champ.” Ethan nodded, already feeling the ghost of a smile forming. “Of course, Brad. You can count on me.”
“This is our shot at a regional lead,” he announced at the morning huddle, chest puffed out like a motivational speaker. “We’ll show the board what real innovation looks like.” The translation, Ethan knew, was We’ll show them what real plagiarism looks like.