My boss had the audacity to invite me to his pool and proposition me, saying he’d promote me if I spent the night with him. He knew I was married but didn’t care. I was furious and disgusted by his complete lack of professionalism and respect. The moment he said those words, it felt like a punch to the gut. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. How could someone in a position of power think this was okay? How could he so blatantly disregard not only my marriage but also my dignity?

It started subtly. Over the past few weeks, he’d been paying me more attention than usual—complimenting my work, inviting me to one-on-one meetings, and dropping hints about a promotion that was “within reach.” I was flattered at first, thinking he recognized my hard work and dedication. But then the invitations became more personal. First, it was drinks after work. Then, a dinner to “discuss my career trajectory.” And finally, the pool party at his house.

When I arrived, I realized it wasn’t a party at all. It was just the two of us. He handed me a drink, made small talk, and then, without a hint of shame, laid out his proposition: one night with him, and the promotion was mine. He said it so casually, as if he were offering me a raise or a bonus, not something that would cost me my self-respect and betray everything I stand for.

I was furious. How dare he? How dare he think he could buy me like some commodity? How dare he assume I would even consider trading my integrity for a promotion? And the fact that he knew I was married made it even worse. It was like my commitment to my husband meant nothing to him, like my vows were just a minor obstacle he could easily brush aside.

I didn’t stay long. I told him I had to leave, that I wasn’t feeling well, and got out of there as fast as I could. But the drive home was a blur of anger and disbelief. I kept replaying the conversation in my head, wondering if I’d somehow given him the wrong idea, if I’d done something to make him think this was acceptable. But deep down, I knew the truth: this wasn’t about me. This was about him abusing his power, about him thinking he could manipulate me into doing what he wanted.

Now, I’m left with a decision I never thought I’d have to make. Do I report him and risk my career? Do I stay quiet and hope this doesn’t happen again? Or do I confront him and demand an apology? The thought of facing him at work tomorrow makes my stomach churn, but the thought of letting him get away with this is even worse.

One thing’s for sure: I won’t let him define my worth. My value isn’t something he can negotiate or manipulate. And no promotion, no matter how tempting, is worth sacrificing my integrity or my self-respect.