CHAPTER 8: Celeste Loses the Room

Celeste had survived scandals before.
She had survived rumors about affairs, missing foundation checks, and the sudden disappearance of employees who asked too many questions.
She had always survived because the room preferred her version of events.
This time, the room moved away from her.
It happened politely, which made it devastating. A half step here. A turned shoulder there. A donor's wife suddenly remembering a call. Every inch of distance became a vote.
A board member stepped back first. Then a donor. Then the senator who had been waiting to toast Julian pretended to study his cuff link.
Celeste saw power leaving her by inches.
"This is manipulation," she said. "He is grieving some childhood fantasy. That woman was paid to love him."
Julian's voice stayed quiet.
"She was paid to serve. She loved me for free."
The line struck harder than anger would have.
Richard lowered his eyes.
Amelia placed another document on the table near the shattered glass.
"There is also evidence that Mrs. Celeste Veyron directed staff to alter household employment records and suppress correspondence from Ms. Hale."
Celeste turned toward Richard. "Say something."
Richard opened his mouth, then closed it.
Julian watched the truth do what wealth had delayed for years.
It arrived anyway.