Let Colleague Take the Heat

A report went out with an error I introduced. When the client complained, my colleague started apologising before I could stop them. I said nothing. I watched them absorb the awkward questions while I stayed helpful and calm. Afterward, they looked wrecked and I offered them tea like that balanced it. It didn't. Their confidence dipped for months and I benefited from being seen as steady. I hate that I remember it as a win before I remember it as a betrayal.