“I will pay you double on Monday,” Grant said.

“With all respect, sir, the agency policy requires active authorization before we remain on site,” Marcus said. “We are leaving the perimeter now.”

Through the rain-streaked window, I saw the two men turn around.

They got back into the black town car, the brake lights flashing once before the vehicle pulled away into the city traffic.

Grant stood frozen by the glass, his silhouette dark against the gray afternoon light.

Vanessa watched the car disappear, her teeth biting down on her lower lip until her red lipstick began to smudge.

“Grant,” she said softly. “We need to go to the office. We need to talk to the board members individually.”

“The board will not meet with him,” Margaret said, adjusting her glasses.

“They will meet with the majority shareholder,” Vanessa said, her voice rising in pitch.

“The majority shareholder is the Holloway Family Trust,” Margaret said. “Which is currently represented by me, as the designated protector.”

Margaret picked up her coat from the chair.

“I suggest you find a public taxi, Grant,” Margaret said. “The corporate lease on your vehicle has also been suspended.”