The emergency board meeting began before the market had time to settle. Ashford Tower felt different that morning. The building still stood as strong as ever, but inside, the confidence that once defined it had begun to fracture.
Seraphina walked beside Lucien toward the boardroom. The hallway was quiet, but the silence carried weight. Employees avoided direct eye contact, and conversations stopped when they passed.
Lucien did not react. His pace remained steady. His posture remained composed.
Seraphina glanced at him briefly. "They are watching you," she said.
Lucien did not look at her. "They always are," he replied.
Seraphina nodded slightly. "Yes, but today they are judging."
Lucien pushed the boardroom doors open. "Then let them," he said.
