He could hear murmurs coming from the boardroom, and when he opened the door, everyone fell silent and turned to look at him. At least his headache was beginning to ease.

“Gentlemen, I apologize for leaving the room the way I did,” he said curtly, his voice stern and his gaze detached. “Let’s put the important matters back on the table and work toward a prompt solution.”

He couldn’t bring himself to look at his assistant and returned to his seat. He rested his elbows on the table, clasped his h