Chapter 18 - A Tuition Price for Silence
Nora read the offer at the kitchen counter. The number covered her books, her fees, even the apartment she hoped to rent near campus.
Margaret watched her carefully. “You don't have to decide tonight.”
“My mother was offered the same choice. Not the same amount, but the same choice.”
“Then decide for yourself. Not as punishment for what happened to her.”
Nora carried the papers to the independent attorney she'd contacted through legal aid. He explained the implications without telling her what a good daughter should do.
She rejected the confidentiality agreement. Through counsel she asked that the disputed records be preserved and the allegations against June be reviewed publicly by the company and relevant authorities. No statement would buy ownership of her voice.
That afternoon the Caldwell Foundation board called a special meeting. The bank had frozen the questionable payment. Outside auditors presented what they could substantiate, clearly separating suspicious invoices from proven losses.
Graham joined on video. “This is a coordinated attack led by a disgruntled employee.”
“Which employee?” Madison asked. “The one whose account you created before her first shift?”
Graham's eyes hardened. “Madison, you approved the partnership.”
“Yes. I was careless. I'll answer for it.”
Richard spoke next. “And I ignored safety warnings eighteen years ago. My lawyer will provide the email to investigators. I won't ask anyone to excuse me.”
Silence settled over the boardroom.
The independent directors voted to suspend Graham's signing authority and remove him pending their investigation. Richard stepped aside as chairman while they reviewed his actions. The foundation's remaining money would be supervised by independent trustees.
May you like
Nora expected relief. Instead her phone rang.
It was Ruth, breathless. “Somebody's at my front porch, asking for June's original notebook.”
