The morning arrived cold and sharp, Chicago's streets humming with the usual rhythm of cars and hurried pedestrians, but inside Empire Brands, the tension was palpable. The boardroom, usually a place of orderly meetings and polite discussions, had become an arena. At the head of the long mahogany table, Sean sat, perfectly poised, while several board members whispered in quiet clusters, casting glances at the empty chair Dwayne had once occupied.
Courtney walked in, her heels echoing against the polished floor, and immediately felt the weight of every eye on her. Her marketing team followed behind, carrying tablets and reports, and she tried to channel all her focus into the upcoming presentation. Yet the air crackled with more than corporate energy—it carried threat, manipulation, and unspoken alliances.
Sean rose as she approached, his smile easy, almost brotherly. "Good morning, Courtney. I trust your team is ready to impress us today?"
