“We apologize for interrupting your dinner, but we need your approval before Monday regarding the CEO transition announcement and executive review files,” he continued.
Scott froze instantly, his expression shifting as recognition began to form. Calvin continued speaking without pause, unaware of the tension at the table.
“We also flagged concerns regarding one senior manager, Scott Dalton, after receiving ethics complaints from two team leaders,” he added. “We will wait for your final decision before proceeding.”
The silence that followed felt heavy and absolute, as if the entire restaurant had faded away around us. I lowered the phone slowly and looked directly at Scott, watching the color drain from his face.
Diane tried to recover first, though her voice lacked its earlier confidence. “There must be some misunderstanding,” she said quickly.
“There is no misunderstanding,” I replied calmly, meeting her gaze without hesitation.
Howard cleared his throat, his composure beginning to crack under the weight of realization. “Are you saying you are the CEO of that company,” he asked carefully.