THE FINAL CHECKPOINT: CRUMBLING ESCAPE

RICHARD'S POV

The room was packed, the air would have stiffened but there were enough air conditioners, providing ventilation.

Journalists, camera crews, investors, staff — everyone who had watched the chaos unfold over the past few weeks now sat in stiff, waiting silence. A dozen microphones pointed at me like weapons. Flashing lights burst in my face, but I didn’t blink.

I adjusted the mic.

"My name is Richard Jones, CEO of The Jones Company." I began with an even voice. "And today, I take full responsibility for my silence, my delay in judgment, and the damage caused to the integrity of this company — and more importantly, to a woman who has only ever given her best."

A ripple of murmurs moved through the crowd.

"A recent viral video made by one Mr. Damian ‘Dragon’ Cruz has exposed a malicious campaign orchestrated by himself and Ms. Sherry. Their aim was simple: to ruin the image of Chloe Jones — my wife, and the rightful Managing Director of this company."

I took a breath, locki