JULIAN

The morning after the board meeting, I was deep in financial analysis when an email arrived from Adrian Vaughn. I almost didn't open it, almost deleted it immediately, but I needed to know what he had to say.

The email was brief.

*Julian,

We should talk. Privately, no lawyers or board members, just us. My hotel suite, tonight at seven. The Plaza, penthouse.

*I think you'll find our conversation worth your time.

Adrian*

I read it three times, the audacity was classic Adrian, summon me like I was supposed to jump at his command.

I should ignore it and send a response declining, making it clear that I had...