“The trust dictates the succession of the company.”

“If you attempt to alter the records, you violate the core agreement.”

I looked at the oil paintings of my ancestors lining the staircase.

They felt cold and lifeless.

“I am doing what is right for my family,” I said.

“Your family is the company, Daniel,” Marcus said.

“If you make a public statement about this housekeeper, the board will act.”

“We will declare you unfit to manage the trust.”

“Is that a threat, Marcus?” I asked.

“It is a reality,” Marcus said.

“The shares will be frozen, and we will initiate a hostile takeover.”

“You will lose everything.”

I looked down at Lucas and Owen.

They were clutching their stuffed bears.

They were the only things that mattered.

“Do what you have to do,” I said.

I ended the call.

The screen went black.

“Daddy?” Lucas asked, pulling on my coat.

“Is Claire okay?”

“She is going to be,” I said, putting my phone in my pocket.

“We are going to go see her now.”

I walked them down the stairs and into the grand foyer.