CHAPTER 8: Dessert Before the Takeover

The gala program promised dessert before the foundation vote.
Sebastian had chosen that order himself. Sweetness first, signatures after. It was how men like him preferred power to move: under music, after wine, when people were full enough to confuse comfort with agreement.
Vivian had found the revised agenda three days earlier in his study. The vote was listed as a housekeeping motion. Behind that harmless phrase sat a transfer of temporary authority over the Rowe collection, the youth arts fund, and the historic Harrington Hall property.
Temporary authority was another phrase Sebastian loved.
He planned to stand beneath chandeliers, praise Elaine's memory, and accept control while Vivian smiled beside him like a grateful widow.
Maisie's fall had broken the choreography.
Lydia Crane opened the leather folder on the nearest cocktail table, clearing space between untouched macarons and crystal plates.
'Since Mr. Vale has raised questions of conduct,' she said, 'we should discuss fitness to govern.'
Sebastian looked toward the foundation chair, expecting rescue.
The old man did not move.
He had seen the child's hands. He had heard the word control.
Dessert, for once, could wait.