Chapter 80: Drawing Lines
Diane’s POV
"You’re smiling," Joan observed as we pulled into the driveway. "That’s a good sign."
"I’m just thinking about Guerrero’s face when he saw those documents," I replied. "The way the entire board looked when they realized their golden boy CEO has been stealing from them."
Joan laughed. "It was pretty spectacular. Though I’m still trying to figure out how we’re going to woo Elite Group with you looking like you’re about to pop any minute."
"We’ll manage," I said with more confidence than I felt. "We always do."
As we entered the house, my mother’s laughter drifted from the living room. She was sitting on the couch, scrolling through her phone with a smile that I hadn’t seen in weeks. It vanished instantly when she saw us, replaced by maternal concern.
"There you are!" She rushed over, embracing me gently. "How did the meeting go? Are you feeling alright? You look exhausted."
"I’m fine, Mom," I assured her, easing myself onto the couch. "The meeting went better than expected, actually. The board is considering me as interim CEO while they investigate Liam."
Mom’s eyes widened. "Really? That’s wonderful news!" She turned to Joan. "Isn’t that amazing?"
"It is," Joan agreed, setting down her bag. "But they’re dangling the position like a carrot on a stick. Diane has to secure a major contract with Elite Group to prove her value."
"And she will," Mom said with absolute conviction. "If anyone can do it, Diane can."