85

AIDEN

“Let’s call a meeting with some shareholders. I want to know who’s behind this before…”

“Drop. The. Call.”

I expected more outrage, but this solemn tone would have to do. I anticipate my father’s smug replies will tip me off rather soon. He was on the phone, talking business.

My mother was on a hospital bed somewhere and he busied himself with Smith Industries.

“Aiden.” He kept the cell in his hand, the call still ongoing but whoever was on the other side hung up instead.

“The next few words coming out of your mouth should be an explanation for everything. You leaked the news to the press.”

His eyes went wide, but the composure didn’t falter.

“You’re not stupid son. Don’t start now.”

“You’re in this office discussing what? Ways to secure your asset so they’re not affected by this scandal.”

“I have dealt with this news for months. I apologize for not being as distraught as you for hearing it for the first time.”

“Why didn’t you tell me!”

“To avoid this. We thought it could b