My father inhaled sharply.

Nathan continued. “We reviewed your financial records. You have suppliers who haven’t been paid in months, permits obtained through questionable channels, and two active labor lawsuits.

I only agreed to one final meeting because Emily asked me not to judge her family without hearing them out first.” He paused. “She defended you far more than you deserved.”

My chest tightened.

My father changed his tone. “Nathan, think this through. Jobs are at stake.”

“What puts jobs at risk is running a company with arrogance while hiding debt under the tablecloth. Good day, Harold.”