An apt description of disturbingly many workplaces. This type of &quot;superior&quot; person can hide themselves quite well and have a decent working relationship with their &quot;inferiors&quot;, but when challenged will show their cards.<p>The difference here was that OP had the power to say no, and wasn&#x27;t trapped by obligations.<p>I have the impression that some commenters resent them for having that level of self-determination and make excuses for the behavior of the employer.