Chapter 8 - The Press Conference That Shook North Carolina Real Estate
At two o'clock on Thursday afternoon, over fifty journalists and television news crews packed into the grand ballroom of the Charlotte Marriott City Center.
Microphones from local stations and national financial news networks covered the podium beneath towering banners displaying the logo of Rowan Architectural Group.
Claire walked out onto the elevated stage, flanked by David Cole, Arthur Sterling, and a senior representative from the North Carolina Licensing Board.
Flashbulbs exploded in a blinding rhythm across the room as reporters shouted questions regarding the sudden collapse of Whitmore Development.
Claire raised her hand calmly, stepping up to the cluster of microphones as the room gradually settled into an expectant silence.
“Good afternoon,” Claire began, her voice echoing clearly through the ballroom sound system with absolute authority and poise.
“For fourteen years, the public was led to believe that Whitmore Development was built on visionary leadership and structural excellence,” she said.
“Today, I am officially disclosing that Whitmore Development has been placed into emergency receivership due to extensive corporate fraud,” she announced.
A murmur of excitement and disbelief swept through the crowd of journalists as cameras zoomed in on Claire’s resolute face.
“Grant Whitmore has been removed from all executive positions,” Claire continued, pulling a printed press release from her jacket.
“Rowan Architectural Group will assume full operational control of all stalled construction sites to guarantee structural safety and honor contractor debts,” she added.
A reporter from the Charlotte Observer raised his hand frantically. “Ms. Whitmore, where is Grant Whitmore right now?”
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Claire looked directly into the primary camera lens, knowing Grant was watching the live broadcast from wherever he was hiding.
“Grant Whitmore is currently facing federal arrest warrants for wire fraud, embezzlement, and criminal forgery,” Claire answered without blinking.
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