Chapter 16 - The Boardroom of Echoes
The executive boardroom of Prescott Global—now fully integrated under the Sterling Capital umbrella—was bathed in the golden light of a late autumn sunrise.
The massive mahogany table, once dominated by arrogant executives who treated employees like numbers and wives like accessories, now sat empty except for one person.
Claire Prescott sat at the head of the table.
She wore a crisp white silk blouse and dark tailored trousers. Before her lay the final audit reports, the corporate restructuring charters, and a sleek black fountain pen.
The door opened silently. Nathan Brooks walked in, holding a single sealed envelope.
"The final receivership documents have been signed by the federal bankruptcy judge," Nathan said, setting the envelope gently on the glass surface. "Prescott Global is officially defunct. It has been entirely absorbed into Sterling Capital's industrial portfolio."
"And Aaron?" Claire asked without looking up.
"He filed for personal bankruptcy this morning. No law firm in Boston would take his case pro bono, and his mother’s medical bills are consuming what little liquid cash she had hidden away." Nathan paused, studying her face. "Do you want me to arrange a severance package? A small trust to keep him off the streets?"
May you like
Claire picked up the black fountain pen. She traced the smooth metal surface with her thumb, remembering the cold winter mornings she spent pressing his suits, polishing his cuff links, and listening to him belittle her intelligence over breakfast.
"No," Claire said quietly. "Let him experience what it feels like to build something from nothing. It builds character. Or at least, it teaches respect."
