His expression tightened. “You set me up.”
“No, Victor. I documented you.”
He moved nearer. “You think you’ll keep the company? You think the board wants you? They liked me. They respected me.”
“They tolerated you because I made you useful.”
For the first time during our eleven-year marriage, Victor had no instant response.
I turned away before he could produce one.
The following weeks were harsh, but they were not disorderly. Preparation had given me that advantage.
Grant Marsh attempted to erase corporate records from a rented workspace in Providence. The FBI already possessed duplicate copies obtained through a subpoena for the company’s cloud storage. Olivia initially maintained that she knew nothing. Later, she admitted helping Victor create accounts after he promised they would “start fresh in Europe.” Cooperating reduced the consequences she faced, but it did not remove them.
Victor challenged every development.
He contested the divorce.
He opposed the civil lawsuit.
He fought the board’s decision to dismiss him.
He even resisted returning my mother’s emerald earrings, arguing that they had been “gifted to the marital household,” although photographs from my university graduation showed them around my neck years before I knew him.
Each new lie produced another record.
Each new record made Diane grin.
The board gathered on January 14th in the conference room on the highest floor of our Boston headquarters. Snow moved past the windows, blurring the harbor into a sheet of gray. Twelve directors surrounded the long walnut table. Several had known my father personally. Others had invested after Victor became involved. Every face appeared guarded.
Arthur Bell cleared his throat. “Claire, no one questions your competence.”
Statements like that usually introduce the exact opposite.
I said nothing.
He went on, “But the public nature of this scandal could affect hospital confidence. We need stability.”
“Agreed,” I said.
Priya Desai, one of the younger directors, leaned over the table. “What are you proposing?”
I opened the documents before me.
“First, immediate rebranding. The company will return to its original name: Whitaker Medical Logistics. Second, an independent audit of all vendor relationships. Third, a client communication plan already drafted and ready for distribution. Fourth, Victor’s executive role is terminated for cause, effective immediately, with all compensation suspended pending litigation.”
Arthur narrowed his eyes. “You prepared all this?”
“Yes.”
“Before today?”
“Before Victor reached the airport.”
No one spoke.
Then Priya smiled.
“I vote yes.”
