Chapter 7 - The Boardroom SiegeThe next morning, Peterson Tech’s global shareholder emergency summit was held on the top floor of the Sydney financial tower. Arthur Vance stood at the podium, addressing hundreds of investors, board members, and international journalists.
"Today, we move forward into a new era," Arthur announced smoothly into the microphone. "Due to the regrettable health crisis of our former CEO, Alex Peterson, full executive control and voting rights have been transferred to Bridget Peterson."
Bridget stepped up to the podium, smiling gracefully for the flashing press cameras. "Thank you all. My husband’s vision will live on, even as he receives the medical care he so desperately—"
The massive double doors at the back of the auditorium slammed open.
Alex Peterson walked down the central aisle. He wasn't wearing his usual thousands-dollar suit; he wore a simple jacket, rugged jeans, and had a visible cut along his jaw.
Behind him walked three boys: Finn, Liam, and Ethan, dressed neatly, holding hands. Beside them was a team of federal law enforcement officers and officers from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.
The room erupted into frantic murmurs and flashing cameras.
"Alex!" Bridget gasped, her face draining of color. "What is the meaning of this security breach?"
"The game is over, Bridget," Alex said, his voice echoing powerfully through the auditorium speakers.
He pulled the flash drive from his pocket and held it up for the media to see.
"Twelve years ago, Peterson Tech committed massive international corporate fraud. When Valerie Smith discovered it, Arthur Vance and Bridget Peterson erased her, threatened her, and left my twin sons to grow up on the streets while stealing billions from global investors."
"He's insane! Guards, escort him out!" Arthur screamed, pounding his fist on the podium.
Federal agents stepped forward, flashing their badges at Arthur's security team. "Stand down! Federal Police! Mr. Vance, Mrs. Peterson, do not move!"
Alex stepped up to the main display console and plugged the flash drive in. Instantly, the massive LED screens behind the stage lit up with thousands of pages of internal emails, illegal wire transfers, and the signed order by Arthur and Bridget denying Valerie’s final plea for her children.
The room descended into utter chaos. Journalists pushed past security, yelling questions, while investors began frantically calling their brokers on their phones.
Bridget backed away from the podium, looking at Finn. "Finn... baby, come here to Mommy..."
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Finn looked at her with a maturity far beyond his eight years, squeezed Liam and Ethan’s hands, and stepped back toward Alex.
"No, Mom," Finn said clearly. "You lied to us."
