With a heavy thud, both men crashed against the edge of the conference table.

A crystal water pitcher slid off the polished wood and shattered on the floor.

Water and glass shards sprayed across the carpet, soaking the hem of my trousers.

Nathan pulled Richard back, pinning his arms behind his back once more.

“Stop it, Dad! It’s over!” Nathan yelled, his voice strained from the physical effort.

Richard was panting, his head hanging low as he struggled for breath.

A small piece of the envelope’s outer wrapping had torn, but the thick parchment inside remained completely intact.

I held it close to my chest, my knees shaking as I stood near the shattered glass.

Mr. Hayes did not flinch or move from his spot.

He calmly watched the struggle, then reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone.

“The officers are downstairs,” Mr. Hayes said into the receiver. “Send them up to the penthouse floor immediately.”

Jane was sobbing quietly in the corner, her hands covering her face to block out the scene.

The other board members stood like statues, staring at the floor, terrified of being linked to Richard’s actions.