The Call
She selected one contact.
Arthur.
Executive Vice President of Legal Affairs.
The call connected immediately.
“Cassidy?”
His voice sounded concerned.
“Are you alright?”
She answered calmly.
“No.”
A brief pause followed.
“Execute Protocol Seven.”
Arthur became silent.
He understood exactly what those words meant.
Years earlier, the company’s legal department had developed emergency procedures for situations involving fraud, ethical violations, executive misconduct, and conflicts of interest.
Protocol Seven represented the most comprehensive internal response available.
Its activation triggered immediate legal reviews, executive audits, suspension of certain corporate privileges, and preservation of financial records pending investigation.
It was designed for extraordinary circumstances.
“Cassidy,” Arthur said carefully, “once this begins, it can’t simply be undone.”
“I know.”
“Some people may lose their positions.”
“I understand.”
“You’re certain?”
She looked directly at Brendan.
“Yes.”
Confusion Around the Table
Brendan frowned.
“What are you talking about?”
Jessica laughed nervously.
“Protocol Seven?”
“Is that supposed to scare somebody?”
Diane rolled her eyes.
“Honestly, Cassidy, must everything become a performance?”
Cassidy simply ended the call.
She said nothing more.
Because explanations were no longer necessary.
Reality would arrive soon enough.
An Unexpected Arrival
Less than ten minutes later, headlights illuminated the front windows.
Several black vehicles entered the driveway.
Car doors opened.
Professional men and women stepped outside carrying briefcases and identification.
Security personnel accompanied them.
The household grew quiet.
A firm knock echoed through the entrance hall.
One employee opened the door.
The head of corporate security entered first.
He scanned the room before speaking respectfully.
“Good evening.”
His eyes settled on Cassidy.
“Ms. Morgan.”
He inclined his head.
“We’re ready.”
Every face around the table changed instantly.
Brendan looked confused.
His mother appeared irritated.
Jessica stopped smiling.
The Truth Begins to Surface
Arthur entered moments later.
He walked directly toward Cassidy.
Ignoring everyone else, he spoke formally.