Its largest acquisition was days from closing.
Andrew had convinced himself that sacrificing one relationship was the responsible choice.
The truth was less noble.
He had been afraid.
Ivy had understood that fear and built her power around it.
Daniel opened another file from the memory card.
“This is a recording made in Ms.
Lancaster’s office five years ago,” he said.
Ivy moved toward the laptop.
The detective blocked her path.
A younger Mary appeared on the screen.
Her phone had apparently been concealed inside a folder.
Ivy stood behind her desk, perfectly composed.
Mary’s recorded voice shook with anger.
“You moved the money through vendors you created.”
Ivy did not deny it.
“You found a pattern you were never supposed to see.”
“I’m taking this to Andrew.”
“No, you are not.
By the time you reach his office, your access code will be attached to every transfer.
He will choose the company, Mary.
Men like Andrew always believe they are protecting thousands when they sacrifice the one person standing in front of them.”
The recording stopped.
Andrew closed his eyes briefly.
Mary had carried those words for five years.
She had also carried his child.
Nathan Cole called the board to order.
“I move that Ivy Lancaster be immediately suspended from all executive duties, that her system access be terminated, and that an independent forensic investigation be authorized.”
Another director seconded the motion.
The vote was eleven in favor.
Ivy cast the only opposing vote.
Daniel disabled her credentials while she stood watching.
Her phone began vibrating as access alerts arrived one after another.
Corporate email revoked.
Bank authority suspended.
Building credentials canceled.
Board materials restricted.
Ivy stared at Andrew.
“You think this makes you a hero?”
“No,” he said.
“It makes me late.”
The detective stepped forward.
“Ivy Lancaster, we need you to come with us for questioning concerning the assault on Mary Fitzgerald, obstruction of an investigation, and conspiracy to destroy evidence.”
“I am not going anywhere without counsel.”
Charles Voss placed his glasses back on.
“You should obtain personal counsel,” he said.
“I cannot advise you.”
Two officers waited outside the door.
Ivy looked around the room for someone willing to intervene.
No one did.
As she was escorted into the hallway, she turned toward Mary.
“You could have walked away.”
Mary’s hand closed around Lauren’s.
“I did walk away.
You followed me.”
