Chapter 10 - The Boardroom Rebellion
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The grand boardroom of Sterling Enterprises was located on the top floor, offering a panoramic view of the city skyline. At precisely noon, Maya pushed open the heavy oak doors and walked in, carrying the black ledger under her arm. Leo trailed closely behind her, holding a stack of legal documents.
The twelve remaining members of the board of directors were already seated around the massive mahogany table. The atmosphere was incredibly hostile. These were older, wealthy individuals who had grown incredibly comfortable under Victoria’s corrupt regime.
"Ms. Sterling," Richard Vance, the pompous chairman of the finance committee, sneered as she approached the head of the table. "How kind of you to join us. I trust you are done parading around with federal agents?"
"I will be done when every ounce of rot is removed from this building, Richard," Maya said calmly, taking her seat.
"Let’s cut the theatrics, Maya," Richard snapped, leaning forward. "Your little stunt last night at the gala was a public relations nightmare. The stock has dropped eight percent since the opening bell. You have destabilized a multi-billion dollar empire."
"Victoria destabilized this empire when she started embezzling millions," Maya countered smoothly.
"Allegedly," another board member chimed in. "Until she is convicted, you have no right to assume control. We have drafted a resolution to appoint an interim CEO from within the board until the dust settles. You are simply too young and inexperienced to handle this crisis."
Maya didn't flinch. She slowly placed the black ledger on the center of the polished table.
"Are you familiar with this book, Richard?" Maya asked softly.
Richard’s face drained of all color. His arrogant posture instantly collapsed.
"I... I have no idea what that is," he stammered, his eyes glued to the black leather.
"It’s Victoria’s private accounting," Maya said, opening the book to a bookmarked page. "For instance, it details a very interesting transfer of three million dollars to a shell company registered to your brother-in-law in the Bahamas. Authorized by your signature, Richard."
The boardroom erupted in panicked murmurs.
"I have similar pages bookmarked for five other members sitting at this table," Maya continued, raising her voice just enough to cut through the noise. "You have two choices. You can sign the immediate letters of resignation Leo is passing out, forfeiting your severance packages, and walk out of this building quietly. Or, I can hand this ledger directly to the FBI agents waiting in the lobby, and you can join Victoria in a federal cell."
May you like
Maya leaned back in her chair, a cold, triumphant smile gracing her lips.
"I highly suggest you find a pen."
