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Talia, Raj, Ava Douglass—the chief marketing officer of Lemon LLC—Simone Brooks—head of product development—and Henry Cho, head of finance, are also gathered on the long marble table.

“Thank you all for coming.” My voice doesn't waver. Years of script readings and auditions trained me well for moments like this. Even though, inside, I'm shaking.

“I know there have been concerns about our new serum launch in the midst of this drama. But be rest assured that the launch will happen as scheduled.”

One of the investors, a savvy and blunt woman called Siobhan Yutes, crosses her arm. “That’s bold. But the timing with everything going on, I don’t know if it’s smart.”

“I agree with Mrs. Yutes. I’m concerned that the noise will bury the product. The noise around Lemon right now is pretty loud.”

I smile. Controlled. Shoulders straight, chin high.

“Please, be rest assured that this is under control and by launch date, this false narrative wouldn’t even cross anyone’s mind. Before then, it’s pertinent that Lemon LLC maintains a united and coordinated front. We’re unbothered by noise from hungry influencers who are asking to be sued to penury. Because it’s just that—noise.”

The investors shift in their seats, and I smile again.

I click to the first slide of my presentation. Our logo of a bright, stylized lemon appears on screen.

“Lemon LLC has always been about transformation. Taking something tart and creating something beautiful.” I click to the next slide. “Today I'm sharing our next evolution: the Lemon Diagnostics App.”

For twenty minutes, I outline our vision: an AI-driven skin analysis app that creates personalized skincare regimens using our products. I showcase mock-ups, preliminary coding, and market research. The same passion that built this company from nothing flows through me.

“Think about it. Product scanning, tailored routines, live sessions with dermatologists. This is innovation in the palm of your hand.”

No one speaks. The room hums with silence.

“Questions?” I ask at the end, setting down my presentation remote.

Richard leans forward. “Impressive technology, Wren. But I'm still concerned about timing. This scandal?—”

“Is baseless and will blow over.” I meet his gaze steadily. “As I earlier explained, the?—”

“The numbers suggest otherwise.” Eliza taps her tablet. “Your social engagement is down twenty percent, and retailers are getting nervous. Have you seen the videos of customers throwing away their products in favour of the new Nova Grey formula?”

I feel my jaw tighten. “Short-term fluctuations in a growing market.”

“We've worked in beauty long enough to know how fickle consumers can be.” This from Louis Laurent, newer money but old fashion industry connections. “One day you're the darling,next day you're toxic. And right now, Lemon’s a very toxic brand to support.”

“I'm not some flash-in-the-pan influencer brand.” My voice hardens despite my efforts. “Lemon LLC has five years of consistent growth and innovation.”

“And a founder who’s being called a thief on every social platform right now.” Louis raises an eyebrow. “You’re being accused of stealing the idea of this company from a small creator who has been struggling to pay her bills while you lounge in luxury and profit from her creative endeavour. I’m sure you’re very aware of how this narrative appears in public.”

Richard sighs. “I believe in you, Wren. But I'm pulling back until this resolves. Too much uncertainty.”

My stomach drops, but I maintain my expression. “I understand your position.”

He stands. Just like that. The others shift in their chairs.

“The rest of us aren't pulling out,” Eliza clarifies. “But we need to see this situation contained before increasing our investment.”

I nod, closing my laptop with steady hands even as my insides crumble. “I appreciate your candor.”

“So basically, they're fair-weather friends.”Raj paces the conference room, his hands gesticulating. “One hint of scandal and they scatter.”

“Not scattered. Just... hesitating.” I massage my temples.

Talia bites into an apple like she’s imagining it’s someone’s face. “I’ll say it. This is insane. Expected but still insane.”

Henry examines his notes from the meeting. “Richard pulling out is concerning. He's usually our canary in the coal mine.”