She Never Told You?

The forged transfer should have been impossible.

Meridian’s ownership records required approval from Victoria, the board chairman and an independent legal officer.

All three confirmations were present.

Victoria’s code had been issued from her office computer.

Julian Cross’s electronic signature appeared beneath hers.

The legal authorization belonged to Evelyn.

Evelyn’s face changed when she saw it.

“I did not approve this.”

Daniel checked the digital certificates.

None appeared counterfeit.

“The system believes all three of you signed.”

Arthur paced beside the windows.

“Can Grant use the shares?”

“Not until the beneficiaries meet the conditions,” Evelyn said.

“What conditions?”

She read the final section.

The shares would become active if Victoria was removed as chief executive, declared unable to manage the company or convicted of misconduct involving employee information.

Everyone understood at the same moment.

The breach had not been committed merely to steal private records.

It had been designed to remove Victoria.

If she lost control of Meridian, four percent of the company would transfer into the twins’ trust. Grant, as their biological father, could petition to manage those shares.

Combined with his investors and sympathetic board members, four percent might be enough to control the company.

Arthur looked sick.

“He used my children as a weapon.”

“He used everyone,” Victoria replied.

A television in the conference room interrupted them.

A news reporter stood outside Meridian’s headquarters.

Behind her, protesters were already gathering.

An anonymous source had released claims that Victoria’s family program had collected private medical information without permission.

The stolen files had not been published.

But the accusation had.

Julian Cross entered the room without knocking.

“The board has scheduled an emergency vote,” he announced.