The investigation stopped being Adrian's the moment it expanded beyond his company. For weeks, he had convinced himself that he could still contain the damage. A scandal could be managed, a government inquiry could be delayed, a public relations disaster could be redirected, and he had survived all three before.
What he had never faced was an investigation that kept growing every time someone tried to limit it.
Adrian stood at the window of his office overlooking the city; rain covered the glass in uneven streams, and the skyline beyond looked blurred and distant. His phone had not stopped ringing all morning. Adrian received calls from law firms, board members, investors, journalists, and government representatives. Everyone wanted something, but nobody offered solutions.
A knock interrupted his thoughts. Marcus entered carrying a tablet and several printed reports; his expression immediately told Adrian the news would not be good.
"When does it end?" Adrian asked quietly.
