The headquarters of the Hawthorne Group had always projected certainty; the glass tower dominated the financial district skyline, and the company logo remained illuminated above the city long after sunset every night. Investors, competitors, and journalists had spent years treating the building as a symbol of stability. Now, that stability was beginning to crack.
Adrian stood in his office looking down at the streets below; the city appeared unchanged, and traffic moved steadily. People hurried between buildings; the world continued forward. Yet inside the building, everything felt different; his phone had not stopped ringing since dawn. Board members, investors, legal advisors, media representatives – everyone wanted answers, but very few offered support.
A sharp knock sounded at the door.
"Come in," Adrian said.
Marcus entered carrying a tablet and several printed reports; his expression was grim. Adrian recognised that look immediately – more bad news.
