Daniel had built his reputation by walking through doors I had opened for him.
He had used company money to finance his affair.
He had misled investors.
He had violated loan conditions.
And during the divorce, he had signed a sworn financial disclosure declaring that every marital and corporate liability had been revealed.
It hadn’t.
At 9:14 that evening, Arthur walked onto the reception stage and asked for the microphone.
Daniel intercepted him.
“Don’t.”
Arthur looked down at Daniel’s hand gripping his arm.
Daniel released him immediately.
Arthur faced the ballroom.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I apologize for interrupting the celebration.”
The room was completely silent.
“Several people present tonight are investors, creditors, business partners, and employees connected to Daniel Pierce’s company.”
Daniel stood motionless.
Arthur continued.
“An emergency board session has been scheduled for tomorrow morning regarding allegations of financial misconduct.”
Vanessa stepped forward.
“Stop this!”
Arthur turned toward her.
