Michael's phone vibrated in his pocket, pulling his attention away from the bustling room. He glanced at the screen and immediately stiffened. It was our private investigator, the one he had hired to uncover Vanessa's dealings.
He excused himself and walked briskly toward the terrace, where the sound of jazz music faded behind him. I followed, sensing the urgency in his movements.
"What is it?" I asked once we were alone.
Michael put the call on speaker. "You're on with both of us," he said, his voice low.
The investigator's voice came through, crisp and urgent. "Vanessa's move tonight isn't just for show. She's been working behind the scenes to gather support from your key investors and board members. I've intercepted communications that suggest she's planning to publicly demand your removal from the company."