Aria's POV
"Aria, are you ready?" Maya's voice trembled slightly as we stepped out of the elevator on the executive floor. My heart pounded so loudly I was surprised I could hear Maya ask.
"As ready as I'll ever be," I replied, smoothing the front of my blouse. The flash drive—our genuine evidence—rested securely in my purse.
Yesterday's triumph felt tentative; today, we would face the board, Damon, Sebastian, the entire executive team. I drew a steadying breath.
"Come on," Maya whispered, slipping her hand into mine. Her presence grounded me. I forced a calm smile.
We passed the reception desk; security officers gave us polite nods. One guided us to a side room—the guardroom—where we were screened briefly: ID confirmed, belongings checked, no surprises.
I felt exposed yet relieved: the precautions meant Damon had arranged this carefully.
