Chapter 5: Unraveling the Web**
The boardroom monitor began scrolling through detailed bank ledgers, signed wire transfers, and encrypted communications dating back seven years.
"St. Jude isn't going bankrupt because of operational deficits," Elena explained through the screen. "It's running at a loss because sixty percent of its endowment was systematically siphoned into three shell companies registered in the Cayman Islands. All three accounts trace directly back to Sterling Capital."
Victoria reached frantically for the remote, trying to shut off the screen, but the system had been hardwired and overridden.
"What you did to me six years ago was personal, Victoria," Elena continued calmly. "You saw me as an obstacle to your merger. But what you did to the pediatric wards, the free clinics, and the elderly care homes funded by my family's trust... that is criminal."
Board members began whispering among themselves, casting nervous glances toward Victoria. Several senior directors stood up and gathered their files.
"This meeting is adjourned until our legal counsel can verify these documents," announced Arthur Pendelton, the oldest board member and a long-time ally of Elena’s father.
"Pendelton, sit back down!" Victoria shouted, her composure completely shattered. "You owe your seat to my father!"
"I owe my loyalty to this institution's integrity, Victoria," Arthur replied sternly, not even looking back as he walked out the heavy double doors.
Charles remained in his chair, staring at the screen where Elena’s live feed lingered for one final moment.
"Charles," Elena said directly to him before signing off, "you have twenty-four hours to decide whether you're a Vance, or just another one of Victoria's accessories."
May you like
The screen went black.
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