Chapter 5
Two towering, broad-shouldered security guards in black tactical suits stepped out from the side wings of the stage.
They grabbed Julian by his designer suit lapels, pulling his hands behind his back with practiced, militaristic efficiency.
“You can’t do this!” Julian roared, thrashing wildly as the guards dragged him backward toward the grand exit.
“I built this company! You’re nothing without me! Audrey! Look at me!”
The heavy double doors of the ballroom slammed shut behind him, cutting off his frantic screams and leaving the room in complete silence.
I turned back to the remaining staff of Aurelia Systems, raising my glass of sparkling water toward the audience.
“To the hardworking employees of Aurelia Systems,” I announced calmly.
May you like
“Your salaries are doubled starting tomorrow morning, and your positions are secure.”
A thunderous ovation broke out across the ballroom, wild applause shaking the chandeliers as I stepped off the stage.
