Louis’s calm voice cut through the hall, and suddenly the room erupted with whispers. My chest tightened, heartbeat quick against my ribs as I looked at the shareholders, their heads slowly bobbing in agreement. I hadn’t expected him to be the one to call for a vote. Knowing Jason and Vanessa, they must have already gotten through most of the senior partners.

“I agree,” Jason declared, his voice loud, confident. Vanessa slipped to his side, her hand curling around his arm like she ...