Chapter 4 - The Boardroom Storm
News of Henry Brooks' dramatic appearance spread through the hotel network like wildfire across a dry prairie.
Within forty-five minutes, black luxury sedans screeched to a halt under the rain-drenchedporte-cochère of the hotel.
High-ranking board members, corporate lawyers, and regional executives flooded into the grand lobby in complete panic.
Leading the pack was Richard Sterling, the interim CEO who had spent the last six years systematically stripping the company's soul.
Richard pushed through the glass doors, his face pale and eyes wide with a mix of shock and deep terror.
"Henry!" Richard exclaimed, forcing a warm, theatrical smile as he rushed toward the old man.
"My goodness, Henry! We had no idea you were returning to Chicago tonight!"
"If you had called ahead, we would have arranged private security, a luxury limousine, and the presidential suite!"
Henry stood beside Leo, placing a firm, protective hand on the young waiter's trembling shoulder.
"You didn't need to arrange anything, Richard," Henry replied, his voice ringing out clearly through the grand lobby.
"Because I came to see how my employees treat the vulnerable when they think nobody of importance is watching."
Richard’s fake smile faltered instantly, his eyes darting nervously toward Julian, who was cowering near the front desk.
"Henry, please, let's discuss this privately in the executive boardroom upstairs," Richard urged in a hushed tone.
"There are journalists from the Chicago Tribune outside, and we don't need a public scene damaging our stock price."
Henry looked around at the pristine marble, the glittering glass, and the cold, unfeeling staff standing in uniform.
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"No, Richard," Henry said firmly, his eyes burning with a fierce, rekindled fire.
"The public scene is just beginning, and we are going to hold this board meeting right here in front of everyone."
