Chapter 16 — The Meeting Comes to Order

The lead independent director, a silver-haired former federal prosecutor named Thaddeus Winslowe, knocked his pen against the table.

“This meeting of the board is now in order,” he said gravely.

“We have the completed independent forensic audit, along with the criminal incident reports from the district attorney’s office.

Conrad, you have thirty minutes to address the findings before the board votes on your permanent removal.” Conrad stood, smoothing his tie, reaching for the old charm.

“Board members.