The Ashworth boardroom was designed to intimidate—a long table of polished ebony, chairs upholstered in butter-soft leather, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of Manhattan. Isabella had commissioned the space herself, ensuring that her seat at the head of the table benefited from both the best view and the most flattering lighting.
Today, she had arrived early, reviewing her notes while the other board members filtered in. Jeremy, the CFO and her longtime supporter, gave her a subtle nod as he took his seat near her right hand. Edwin entered last, his confident stride betraying his anticipation. He nodded cordially to Isabella before taking his seat halfway down the table.
"Shall we begin?" Isabella suggested once everyone was settled. "I believe we have a full agenda today."
