One thing I know for sure. He would tell me to be confident.
“This is a hiccup, Kitty Kat, not a disaster. Focus on the positives. You’re the boss, they’ll follow your lead. Never show your insecurities, or the vultures will swoop in.”
After Elliot leaves, I move to my private bathroom, checking my hair and makeup. I pull on my tailored suit jacket, my eyes meeting in the mirror.
It’sshowtime.
I grab my laptop and move to the door.
I close my eyes briefly as I wait for the elevator. The board and our investors are going to have to suck it up. Since taking over as CEO, I’ve managed some pretty amazing feats, but on this occasion, I can’tbloody wellmagic an architect firm out of thin air, especially one with the knowledge and skill set we require.
I open my eyes as Michael appears at my side. “Caleb called earlier.”
The elevator arrives, and I step in, Michael following.
“Did he say what he wanted?”
“Nothing urgent, he said he’d see you in the board meeting.”
“And that’s all he said?”
Michael looks confused.
“Outside ofgood morningandhow are you, yes.”
My gut roils, and my muscles twitch.
Caleb never rings to tell me he’ll see me later.
He’s a chip off the old block in terms of our father. I love him dearly, but… I frown.
“Is everything okay?” Michael asks.
I give myself a mental shake. He’s learning to read me too well. I suppose that’s what happens when you work closely with someone every day for a year, mentoring them. I replace my metaphorical mask.
But the butterflies don’t leave as we make our way to the boardroom. Several of the board members are already in their seats, and tea and coffee are being served.
“Morning, everyone,” I say, making my way to the head of the table.
“Morning, Kat,” Lewis says, entering and making his way around the table.
He’s one of the longest-standing members of the board and was a close friend and ally of my father’s.
I place my laptop down and plug it in, just as Sadie Tripp and Douglas Chapman enter.
Only Caleb’s seat remains empty.
The door opens as soon as I think of his name.
“Morning, everyone,” he says. “Sorry, I’m late. London traffic.”
He takes his seat and turns to face me.
I meet the gaze of every member of the board individually, and set my jaw.
“I’d like to thank you all for coming at such short notice.” I hold my voice steady as I was taught. “As you are all probably aware, both through the press and my email, the architects we hired, Moorland and Sons, are currently under investigation for bribery and corruption practices. A press release has been sent out detailing the termination of their contract with the FHG.”
Sadie drops back in her chair, her arms folded over her chest.
