My boss invited me to his pool and propositioned me, offering a promotion in exchange for one night together. He knew I was married but didn’t seem to care. I was left feeling betrayed and disappointed that someone I trusted to be professional would cross such a line. The moment he made the offer, it felt like the ground had been pulled out from under me. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. How could someone I respected, someone in a position of power, think this was okay? How could he so blatantly disregard my marriage, my boundaries, and my right to be treated with respect?

It started with what seemed like innocent gestures. Over the past few weeks, he’d been praising my work more than usual, telling me I had a bright future at the company and hinting that a promotion was within reach. I was flattered, of course—who wouldn’t be? But then the invitations began. First, it was after-work drinks. 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 integrity and betray everything I stand for.

I was stunned. My mind raced, trying to process what he was saying, but all I could think was, This can’t be real. This can’t be happening. I felt a mix of emotions—anger, disgust, and a deep sense of betrayal. How could he think this was acceptable? How could he so easily dismiss my marriage, my values, and my right to be treated with respect?

I didn’t stay long. I made an excuse about needing to leave and got out of there as fast as I could. But the drive home was a blur. 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 okay. 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.