Chapter 10 - The Three Notices
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Evan’s lead defense attorney reached out and picked up the first document, his eyes scanning the header before turning pale.
“What is this?” the attorney asked.
“Document number one,” I explained smoothly, “is an immediate emergency resolution passed by the independent board of directors two hours ago, suspending Evan Mercer as Chief Executive Officer without pay, pending the outcome of the federal criminal investigation.”
Evan gasped, grabbing the edge of the table. “You can’t suspend me! I’m the founder!”
“You are an employee who owns sixty percent of a operating entity,” I corrected. “Which brings us to document number two.”
James pointed to the second folder.
“Document number two,” James stated, “is a formal notice of lease default and eviction served to Mercer Logistics by Crown Peak Holdings—the sole owner of the land beneath nine of your distribution centers and this corporate headquarters building.”
Richard’s mouth fell open. “Crown Peak? What the hell does Crown Peak have to do with you?”
“I am Crown Peak Holdings,” I revealed, watching the realization hit them like a physical blow. “I bought the land six years ago with my own money. Mercer Logistics is currently in breach of lease terms due to illegal criminal activity occurring on the premises. Unless the company accepts full restructuring under court-appointed independent management within twenty-four hours, I am locking the doors to every single warehouse.”
Evan dropped heavily back into his chair, staring at me like I was a stranger he had never met before in his life.
“You... you own the land?” Evan whispered.
“I own the land, I own the software patents, and I own the registered trademarks,” I said softly. “You built your reputation on my foundation, Evan. And today, I am taking my foundation back.”
James slid the third document forward.
May you like
“Document number three,” James added, “is a civil lawsuit seeking thirty million dollars in damages for corporate fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, emotional distress, and civil battery.”
Silence fell over the room—absolute, crushing, and final.
