Chapter 38
"Good morning, everyone. We’ll now begin the emergency board meeting. I’m sure you all know why we’re here, so let’s move straight to the agenda."
I sat there, my stomach in knots, but I kept my face calm. Luna Catherine and Mona were staring at me, their eyes cold, trying to intimidate me. But I couldn’t let them see any sign of weakness. If this meeting went badly, my father would never get his position back, and I couldn’t allow that to happen.
Sir Jethro broke the silence. "We’ve all seen the emails sent out yesterday, and I trust we’re all clear on why we’re here. Let’s begin by hearing from Luna Catherine. The floor is yours."
Luna Catherine adjusted herself in her chair, giving a small, rehearsed smile. "Thank you, Sir Jethro. First, I want to express my gratitude for the support I’ve received during these difficult times, especially with Alpha Darwin missing." She paused, her voice taking on a dramatic tone.
I had to look away. The way she brought up my father made my skin crawl. It felt like she was trying to manipulate everyone with her false concern, and I couldn’t stand it.
"I’ve decided," she continued, "that in Alpha Darwin’s absence, I will step in as chairperson of the company. I believe, with all of your help, we can continue his legacy and grow this company to even greater heights."
A few people around the table nodded, murmuring their agreement. My blood boiled. Luna Catherine was exploiting my father’s disappearance to get sympathy and seize control. I couldn’t let her get away with it.
Sir Jethro turned to me. "Kimberly, what do you have to say in response?"
I took a deep breath. I knew this was my moment. "First of all, I want to thank everyone for coming on such short notice. The reason we called this meeting is simple: Luna Catherine is not qualified to lead this company."