I recognized the names scrolling slowly down the left side of the display.

They were the executive members of the Whitmore Group board of directors.

At the top of the list, a green microphone icon pulsed with every breath Nathan took.

“You’re making a mistake, Nathan,” Richard said, his voice dropping an octave.

Richard reached toward the paper, his fingers curling into a fist.

“The board does not care about your domestic dramas,” Richard said.

“They care about stability.”

“They care about the law,” Nathan replied.

He tapped the screen, switching the call from the private earpiece to the high-definition speakerphone.

The sound of static filled the small vault room.

Then, a voice came through the speaker.

It was Harrison Vance, the longest-serving independent director on the board.

“Richard?” Vance’s voice was thin, but incredibly clear. “Is that you?”

Richard froze, his hand stopping inches from the table.

His chest did not rise or fall.

“Harrison,” Richard said, his tone instantly shifting to a smooth, corporate warmth.

“This is a private family matter.”

“We are currently finalizing the transition documents.”