All eyes turned to me. Josephine smirked. Harold leaned back in his chair with theatrical boredom.

I stood up. My hands were steadier than I’d expected.

“Thank you, Mrs. Coleman,” I said. “And thank you to the board for allowing me to speak.”

I opened my portfolio. “What I’m about to present may come as a surprise to some of you. I ask only that you listen to the evidence before reaching any conclusions,” I said.

Harold sighed loudly. I ignored him. Before I could continue, my father raised his hand.

“I’m sorry, Robert, but before we waste the board’s valuable time—”