“I have proof that Marcus is compromised,” I told him. “Elliot kept records of cash transfers to Marcus from an offshore account.”

“That might save us in the long run, but your father is moving faster than the legal system,” Malcolm said. “He is instigating a coup.”

“How?”

“He sent a formal petition to the board members forty minutes ago,” Malcolm said. “He is accusing you of being mentally and financially unfit to lead Northline.”

I leaned against the edge of the desk, the air leaving my lungs. “On what grounds?”

“He is citing your past,” Malcolm said quietly. “Specifically, your early years in Denver.”

My heart stopped.

The years after I fled my family, when I was struggling just to pay rent and keep my head above water.

“He doesn’t know anything about those years,” I whispered. “I made sure of it.”

“He is trying to find out,” Malcolm said. “Arthur has already circulated a draft proposal to the board.”

“What does it say?”

“It claims you have a history of unstable behavior, deep personal debts, and financial recklessness,” Malcolm said. “He is painting you as a liability.”