Aria's POV
My stomach churned—seeing Celeste and Tessa again, even under these circumstances, reignited the old fears and anger. But this was necessary: their release from suspension hinged on strict conditions, and today we'd enforce them.
Damon straightened his tie and gave me a reassuring smile. "You'll be fine."
I nodded, took a deep breath, and slipped inside. Damon followed, and Maya Lin trailed behind us, ready with a supportive smile.
The boardroom was still set from this morning's emergency session: the long mahogany table, leather chairs, and soft glow of the afternoon sun through floor-to-ceiling windows.
At the far end, Celeste Langford lounged in a chair, arms crossed, expression unreadable. Tessa Rowe stood beside her, posture rigid, eyes flicking to the door.
As we entered, both women rose.
"Ms. Harper," Celeste said coolly. "Mr. Westin."
Her tone was polite—but beneath it, something sharp. I squared my shoulders and glanced at Tessa, who avoided my gaze.
