Daniel had already begun his defense.

I dialed Robert’s number.

He answered on the second ring, his voice crisp and alert.

“I just saw the notice,” Robert said.

“He’s trying to pre-empt us,” I said, my voice tight as I stared at the email.

“He is backed into a corner,” Robert replied. “We knew he would lash out, but this is fast, even for him.”

I looked out at the ocean.

The gray clouds were still breaking, letting thin needles of sunlight hit the water.

Leaving this quiet place, even for a day, felt like stepping back into a cage.

“I have to go to the meeting,” I said.

“We both do,” Robert said. “If you don’t show up, they will take your absence as an admission of guilt.”

“I’ll pack a bag,” I said.

I called Rachel next.

“Can you watch Lily and Ethan tonight and tomorrow?” I asked.

“Of course,” Rachel said without hesitation. “Is Daniel trying something?”

“An emergency board meeting,” I said. “He is accusing me of taking the trust money.”