Chapter 12

A year later, Adrian became one of the foundation’s biggest outside partners.

He had changed.

He focused on long-term investments.

Stopped chasing status.

And started mentoring young entrepreneurs.

One evening, he asked:

“Do you think people can change?”

I smiled.

“Yes.”

“Even after making terrible mistakes?”

“Especially then.”

He nodded.

“I think I finally understand.”

I looked at him.

“Understand what?”

“That success isn’t being the most powerful man in the room.”

“Then what is it?”

“Being able to walk out of the room and still know who you are.”

I smiled.

“That’s a better answer.”

We shook hands.

Not friends.

Not enemies.

Just two men who had learned something from the same embarrassing dinner.