I did.
The packets showed consulting payments to Vanessa’s private LLC, luxury apartment expenses, and a proposed stock grant that would give her eight percent after “anticipated personal restructuring.”
Miriam stared at the documents.
“They were planning to dilute you.”
“They thought my shares were passive.”
“They targeted the wrong woman.”
At 4:18 p.m., Miriam sent formal notices to the board, outside counsel, and the company’s bank.
Daniel’s voting proxy: revoked.
The $92 million revolving credit guarantee backed by my holding company: suspended pending review.
The proposed Vanessa grant: blocked.
The board emergency meeting: called for 6:00 p.m.
At 4:31, my phone began vibrating.
Daniel.
Vanessa.
The CFO.
Three board members.
Then Daniel again.
I turned the phone face down.
At 5:17, the screen showed one hundred fifty-two missed calls.
Then my doorbell rang.
Daniel stood outside without a coat, his tie loose, his face gray.
Vanessa stood behind him, furious.
I opened the door but kept the chain locked.
Daniel forced a smile.
