They couldn't pretend the original obligation no longer existed merely because the manager had torn the paper.
The CEO looked toward the table.
“Prepare the authorized electronic funding alternative with our other banking partner. Have counsel coordinate the status of the original instrument and document everything.”
“Understood.”
She continued.
“Notify the hospital that there has been an administrative problem but the funding commitment remains firm.”
The finance director paused.
“Do you want us to explain what happened?”
She considered the question.
“Tell them what they need to know for their planning. Don't turn it into a publicity story.”
He agreed.
After the call ended, she stared toward the window.
The hospital was only a few miles away.
Children were attending appointments.
Doctors were working.
Families were waiting for answers.
And the donation represented years of planning by people who cared deeply about improving those services.
The bank manager's conduct had created a delay.
But the CEO refused to let the charity become collateral damage in a fight over her own humiliation.
She needed the money handled correctly.
She needed the investigation handled independently.
And she needed to keep those two responsibilities separate.
Then a knock came at the door.
The security officer stood outside.
“Ma'am?”
She looked up.
“Yes?”
He hesitated.
“The torn check fragments have been secured for the investigation.”
She nodded.
“Thank you.”
He remained in the doorway.
For a moment, he seemed uncertain whether to continue.
The CEO noticed.
“Is there something else?”
He took a breath.
“Yes, ma'am.”
She gestured toward the chair.
“Please.”
The officer sat carefully.
His black security uniform was neat.
A small company badge rested over his chest.
He held his cap in both hands.
For several seconds, he stared toward the floor.
Then he spoke.
“I don't want to cause trouble.”