Edmund explained that he had previously handled executive travel.
He described his longstanding relationship with Richard.
And insisted that the disputed movements were part of informal arrangements he'd believed the company would accept.
The reviewers asked whether he understood that his approval authority had changed.
He hesitated.
Then acknowledged receiving the updated procedures.
They asked why he continued allowing people to identify him as an approving executive.
Edmund shifted.
"I was trying to be helpful."
A reviewer leaned forward.
"Helpful to whom?"
He looked offended.
"The company."
"Then why were the proposed flights not properly documented?"
Edmund gave a frustrated sigh.
"Private aviation is flexible. People make arrangements quickly."
The reviewer nodded.
"Flexibility doesn't eliminate authorization requirements."
Edmund looked toward his attorney.
Then back at the table.
He insisted he hadn't intended to deceive anyone.
He claimed Richard had misunderstood their conversations.
But the investigators had more than memories.
They had emails.
Scheduling records.
And messages discussing the private arrangements.
Some suggested that Edmund knew the flights weren't being approved through the current procedures.
Others referred to consulting fees associated with Charles Whitmore's company.
Edmund's explanations became increasingly strained.
He denied personally authorizing paid charter operations.
But the records raised serious questions about whether he had knowingly facilitated access that wasn't his to grant.
The review continued.
Ultimately, the company ended his remaining advisory relationship after completing the applicable process.
The matter was referred to appropriate external professionals for further consideration of any financial or regulatory issues.
Naomi didn't attend the final interview.
She had intentionally separated herself from the fact-finding process.
But Edmund requested a personal conversation before leaving.
After consulting her advisors, she agreed.
They met in a small conference room at headquarters.
For a long moment, neither spoke.
Then Edmund looked toward her.
"Naomi."
She nodded.
"Edmund."
He sighed.
"I never imagined we'd end up here."
She studied him.
"Neither did I."
He looked toward the table.
"I helped build this company."
"I know."
"I was there when nobody wanted to finance you."
"I remember."
He leaned forward.
"And now you're treating me like a criminal because of some airplane paperwork."
Naomi's expression changed.
"Edmund."
He looked up.
She spoke quietly.