The silence in the dining room, converted into a digital boardroom, was absolute. The faces of the twelve directors on the screen were grim masks of corporate judgment.
“We have heard the testimony of Lady Beatrice,” the Chairman announced, his voice tinny through the speakers. “And we have reviewed the federal seizure warrant regarding the data breach. The risk to shareholder value is existential.”
William stood alone in the center of the room. He didn’t look at the screen; he looked at Beatrice, who was weeping silently into a handkerchief, unable to meet his eyes. She had sold his soul to save her own skin.
“The motion on the floor is the immediate removal of William Croft as CEO and the reinstatement of Alistair Croft as Chairman to navigate this crisis,” the Chairman continued. “All in favor?”
“Aye,” the voices came, one by one, a chorus of betrayal.
“The motion carries unanimously,” the Chairman declared. “William, you are relieved of duty. Alistair, the board grants you full emergency powers.”
Alistair, sitting in the corner, stood up. He buttoned his jacket, hiding the triumphant smirk that played on his lips. He walked over to William and placed a hand on his shoulder–a gesture that looked paternal to the cameras but felt like a shackle to his son.
“I will fix your mess, William,” Alistair whispered for only him to hear. “Go quietly, or I will have you arrested for corporate espionage.”