Chapter 10 - THE COMPANY HE THOUGHT HE OWNED
While Sophie grew stronger, the business investigation continued.
The forensic review uncovered more questionable payments.
Several invoices appeared to have been approved without proper supporting documentation.
Client funds had been routed through accounts I hadn't known existed.
Natalie and the accounting team worked with the appropriate authorities and legal professionals to preserve records and protect employees.
Ryan's control over the company became the subject of emergency court proceedings.
I attended one hearing remotely from a private hospital conference room.
I wore a simple blue blouse.
My hair was tied back.
I hadn't slept well in weeks.
But when I spoke, my voice was steady.
I explained my role in building the company.
The projects I'd designed.
The contracts I'd negotiated.
The clients I'd brought in.
And the financial decisions Ryan had made without my knowledge.
His attorney tried to portray me as uninvolved in the business.
I looked directly at the camera.
"I designed the buildings that made our reputation."
The room went quiet.
"I hired the first employees."
I swallowed.
"I worked through weekends and holidays while my husband told clients we were a team."
I paused.
"Being betrayed doesn't erase my work."
The court granted interim measures to protect company records and restrict disputed transfers while the case proceeded.
It wasn't a final victory.
But it was enough to stop the immediate damage.
After the hearing, Natalie called me.
"You did well."
I smiled faintly.
"I was shaking."
"Nobody could tell."
I looked through the NICU window.
Sophie was sleeping.
"Good."
May you like
Then I whispered:
"Because I'm not done."
