Isla POV

The afternoon sun streamed through the boardroom windows as my department filed in, murmuring amongst themselves. I followed last, my heart hammering against my ribs.

The executives were already seated. Lucian stood at the head of the table, a folder open in front of him. The Chairman sat beside him, his cane resting against the table, his cold gaze sweeping over us.

I took my seat near the middle, my palms clammy.

"Good afternoon," Lucian said, silencing the room. He opened the folder. "I'm sure you're all aware that Mr. Marsh's position has been vacant for some time. That vacancy has created a significant workload gap."

A ripple...