JULIAN

The conference room was packed again by two PM, all board members were seated, looking serious and focused.

Thomas Greene sat at the head of the table, his expression unreadable. David was beside me with his laptop, ready to answer any technical questions about the financial analysis.

"Before we begin," Thomas said, "I want to make sure everyone has reviewed the materials provided. The financial analysis of Adrian Vaughn's company. The documentation of his debt structure. Does anyone have questions?"

Charles Ashford raised his hand. "I've reviewed everything," he said. "And I have to say, the information is damaging to Adrian's position. But I want to hear from Julian...