He stood up, his tall frame casting a long shadow over the table.

He looked directly at James.

“Your contract with Harborview Children’s Hospital is terminated, effective immediately,” Dr. Sterling said.

James opened his mouth to speak, but Dr. Sterling raised a hand to silence him.

“You are barred from all hospital property, including the foundation offices,” Dr. Sterling said.

“Your name will be removed from all upcoming charity events, and our legal team will contact your firm.”

James sneered, though his eyes darted nervously toward the exit.

“You are making a massive mistake, Sterling,” James said, his voice rising.

“Our firm handles half the corporate donors in this city.”

“If you throw me out, those donors go with me.”

“Then they will go,” Dr. Sterling said quietly.

“We will not fund our pediatric ward with stolen money.”

James stood up, grabbing his leather briefcase.

His face was flushed red, a thin line of sweat glistening on his forehead.

He did not look at me as he strode toward the door.

He pushed past the trembling assistant and disappeared into the hallway.