Three days later, the massive boardroom on the top floor of Sterling Financial Headquarters was filled with board members, primary shareholders, and corporate attorneys. Sunlight poured through the glass walls, illuminating the mahogany conference table.
At the head of the table sat Arthur Sterling, looking healthier and more resolute than he had in years. Beside him sat Richard Vance, holding a thick legal briefcase.
Board Member 1: Mr. Sterling, the news of Victoria's arrest has caused our stock price to drop six percent since Monday. The shareholders are panicking!
Arthur: Victoria was a cancer on this institution. The news of her arrest is the beginning of our recovery, not our downfall.
Board Member 2: But who will manage the trust fund? Victoria was slated to take over as CEO next month!
Richard: Victoria is going to prison for thirty years, gentlemen. And as for the CEO position, the original charter written by Eleanor Sterling stands valid.
Richard pulled out a set of certified legal documents, sliding them across the table toward the board members.
Richard: Eleanor owned fifty-one percent of the voting shares, which were placed into an irrevocable trust for her son, Matthew Vance, upon her death. As Matthew's legal guardian, I am assuming control of those shares today.
Board Member 1: You? Vance Enterprises is a direct competitor in commercial real estate!
Richard: Vance Enterprises is executing a full merger with Sterling Financial. We are combining our assets to create the largest investment group on the East Coast.
Arthur: And I fully endorse this merger. Richard has proven his loyalty to the Sterling name, while my own daughter tried to destroy it.
The boardroom doors opened quietly, and Clara walked in leading Matthew and Lily. Matthew wore a sharp navy suit, looking confident and happy as he walked over to his father's chair.
Matthew: Dad, look! Lily showed me how to sign 'partner' in the old code!
Matthew quickly flexed his fingers, tapping his thumbs together twice with a bright grin.
Arthur: Look at him, gentlemen. That boy holds the mind and heart of Eleanor Sterling. Under his trust, this company will thrive for generations.
The board members looked at each other, seeing the overwhelming evidence, the legal backing, and the unified front between two of the most powerful men in the city.
One by one, the directors raised their hands in a unanimous vote of approval.
Board Member 2: Motion passed. Welcome to the board, Mr. Vance. And welcome home, young Matthew.
Richard smiled down at his son, placing a hand gently on the boy's shoulder.
Richard: You did it, buddy. Your mom would be so proud of you.
Matthew: She told me in a dream last night, Dad. She said we finally won.