“It's worse than we thought.”
I considered that.
“Potentially.”
She opened her notes.
“Pike controls the schedules, the CFO is uncomfortable, and somebody manipulated your itinerary.”
I nodded.
“Three separate concerns. We need evidence before connecting them.”
Eleanor smiled faintly.
“Good.”
I looked toward her.
She continued.
“That's exactly what I was going to say.”
Later that afternoon, Northstar's independent board chair requested a meeting.
Her name was Helen Prescott.
She was sixty-four, a former transportation executive who had served on several major corporate boards and was known for being calm under pressure.
Helen had supported the airline's expansion.
But she was also responsible for ensuring the board received accurate information.
When she appeared on the secure video connection, she looked exhausted.
“Adrian.”
“Helen.”
She took a breath.
“I'm sorry about what happened.”
I nodded.
“Thank you.”
Then she leaned forward.
“I've seen the video.”
For a moment, neither spoke.
She continued.
“It was disturbing.”
I looked toward her.
“Then the board should examine why it happened.”
“We will.”
I took a breath.
“Helen, I also need you to understand that the financing review isn't limited to this incident.”
Her expression became serious.
“I know.”
“We have outstanding information requests concerning operational expenditures and reporting controls.”
She nodded.
“Catherine briefed me.”
I continued.
“And a source has raised concerns requiring independent review.”
Helen paused.
Then said quietly, “The audit committee has received a preliminary notice.”
I studied her.
“Good.”
She leaned forward.
“I want to establish a process that protects everyone involved, including any employees who have raised concerns.”
I nodded.
“That's essential.”
Then she asked the most important question of the day.
“Adrian, what would your firm need to see before considering release of the funds?”
I took a breath.
“Verified financial information. A credible independent investigation into the material allegations. Appropriate confirmation that operational and legal conditions are satisfied. And an investment committee decision based on the agreement rather than anyone's personal feelings.”
Helen nodded slowly.
“And if the problems can be corrected?”
“Then we'll evaluate the financing accordingly.”
She was silent.
Then she smiled faintly.
“I appreciate that.”
I looked toward the screen.
“Helen, I don't want to punish a hundred thousand people because a few executives made bad decisions.”
Her expression softened.
“I know.”