CHAPTER 13: Descent Into Consequence

The pilot's voice entered the cabin with professional calm.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we have begun our descent. Current arrival time is twelve minutes. Ground transport is being adjusted. Please remain seated."
Ryan looked toward the cockpit.
"Adjusted?"
Claire's phone remained in her hand. Cecilia was still on the line, silent now because procedure had taken over.
The board chair finally spoke. He was a heavy man with a soft voice and a talent for joining the winning side after certainty arrived.
"Claire, what happens on the ground?"
She looked down the aisle, past Brooke's closed door, past Ryan's white knuckles, past the people who had spent years mistaking her quiet for consent.
"Legal hold, emergency board session, removal of Ryan's discretionary authority, and witness statements before anyone leaves the terminal."
Ryan shook his head. "You arranged that already?"
Claire looked out at the runway lights appearing through the clouds.
"No. You did. I only answered the phone."