Chapter 5 - The Reckoning at Table Twelve
The grand lobby became a courtroom as guests and staff gathered around in absolute, breathless silence.
Richard adjusted his expensive jacket, trying desperately to regain control over the rapidly deteriorating situation.
"Henry, Julian was simply enforcing company policy regarding unregistered visitors," Richard argued smoothly, attempting damage control.
"We have strict standards of security and presentation to maintain our five-star rating in the American hospitality market."
"Company policy?" Henry echoed, his tone dripping with profound contempt.
He turned toward Leo, who was still holding his paper termination slip in his shaking hands.
"This young man gave up his own meal to feed a starving stranger on a freezing night," Henry stated proudly.
"That is not a violation of hospitality, Richard; that IS hospitality!"
"That is the core foundation upon which Clara and I built this entire business from a single bed-and-breakfast in 1985!"
Henry walked over to Julian, taking the termination paper directly out of the manager's trembling hands.
With two swift motions, Henry tore the termination document into pieces and let them fall to the floor like snow.
"Julian Vance, you are relieved of your duties as general manager effective immediately," Henry commanded sternly.
Julian gasped, turning to Richard for help. "Mr. Sterling, you can't let him do this! You're the acting CEO!"
Richard swallowed hard, knowing that Henry still held fifty-one percent of the voting shares in the Brooks Corporation.
" Pack your things, Julian," Richard muttered through clenched teeth, completely abandoning his loyal manager to save himself.
Henry turned back to Leo, offering a warm, genuine smile that softened his weathered, weary face.
May you like
"Leo, as of this moment, you are the temporary floor supervisor of this dining room, with a tripled salary," Henry declared.
The entire lobby erupted into sudden applause, guests clapping enthusiastically for the young, kind-hearted server.
