Just sadness.
He needed me labeled incompetent, not because I failed.
But because he couldn’t control me.
And if he became CEO while I remained inside the company—with relationships, credibility, and a voice—then I might one day contradict him when it mattered.
He wanted a wife confined to home.
A subordinate employee.
A powerless witness.
Instead, he’d tried to dismiss a shareholder.
August leaned back.
“The succession vote is suspended indefinitely.”
Camden stared at him.
“August.”
“Sit down.”
“This company needs continuity.”
August’s eyes sharpened.
“This company survived wars, recessions, strikes, acquisitions, and one near-bankruptcy. I assure you it can survive not promoting you.”
Camden obeyed.
My attention shifted elsewhere.
I studied Sloane.
One question remained.
She’d altered the records.
Camden had built the case against me.
Neither explained my badge being deactivated before the announcement.
Someone anticipated I’d challenge the allegations.
They ensured I lacked access.
