Chapter 2: The Fall of the Empire
The emergency board meeting began less than an hour later.
Every director attended.
Every vote was recorded.
Richard sat silently at one end of the table.
Victoria wasn't even allowed inside.
Julian projected dozens of financial reports onto the screen.
"There is something else everyone deserves to know."
Another folder appeared.
Expense reports.
Hidden accounts.
Luxury purchases.
Private vacations.
Company funds.
Richard slowly lowered his head.
"They're all mine."
Millions of dollars had been spent financing a lavish lifestyle while employees accepted salary freezes during difficult years.
Several executives looked sick.
One director slammed his fist against the table.
"You betrayed every one of us."
Richard didn't argue.
He simply nodded.
"I did."
Olivia remained silent for several moments.
Then she stood.
"As majority shareholder..."
"I move for the immediate removal of Richard Harrington as CEO."
The vote was unanimous.
Minutes later, security arrived.
For the first time in twenty years, Richard surrendered his company badge.
As he walked toward the exit, he stopped beside Olivia.
"I don't deserve forgiveness."
"No," Olivia answered.
"You don't."
"But I hope one day..."
"...you become someone who does."
He left without another word.
Outside the building, reporters had already gathered.
Breaking news spread across every financial network.
CEO Removed After Secret Owner Revealed at Company Gala.
Victoria watched the headlines appear on dozens of phones.
Everything she had protected...
May you like
Everything she believed...
Collapsed in a single night.
