flash

The string quartet at the conservatory-turned-venue played a melancholic Vivaldi piece, but Grayson Maddox couldn’t hear the music. His heart pounded like a jackhammer against his ribs. / Chapter 13 / 20

Chapter 13 - THE ULTIMATUMGrayson didn't flinch. He didn't slam his fist on the table as he had weeks prior. Instead, he leaned back in his leather chair, a slow, cold smile spreading across his lips.

"Evelyn," Grayson said softly, his voice cutting through the panic of the board members like a razor. "You think my family is a weakness. You think because I care about my daughter, my mind has grown soft."

"Your stock is dipping, Grayson. The media is circling like vultures," Evelyn countered, her smile unwavering. "Step down as CEO voluntarily, hand over control of the commercial division to my consortium, and I might let you keep your honorary title."

"And if I refuse?"

"Then I call the vote at the end of this meeting," Evelyn snapped. "Your majority share is protected only as long as the board deems you fit to lead. With the scandals, the CPS raid, and your erratic absence last week, they'll vote you out unanimously."

Before Grayson could answer, the boardroom doors flew open again.

Amelia walked in.

She wasn't wearing her sage-green dress or looking like the victim of a tabloid scandal. She wore a tailored charcoal blazer, her hair pulled back into a sleek ponytail, holding a thick leather briefcase.

Every head in the room turned toward her in shock.

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