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“We don't need him.” Raj stops pacing. “The app development will be a success. He knows this.”

“He knows that but even he recognizes that public trust matters. If we launch the new serum in this state, I can't even begin to imagine the backlash.” Talia shakes her head. “Wren, we need to win back the public. That’s the way we can scale through this. They need to know the truth.”

“They will. Sean’s investigating.”

The room falls silent for a moment.

“We need the marketing budget Richard’s investment would have covered. Henry and Ava, please provide it as soon as possible.” I stand, walking to the window overlooking the city. “And the confidence his backing signals to others.”

Ava nods, typing into her tablet. “On it.”

“We pivot.” Talia's voice is firm. “Focus on retention of existing customers. Double down on loyalty.”

“While watching our growth projections tank?” Simone’s voice cracks.

“While weathering the storm.” I turn back to face them. “This will pass.”

“Will it?” Ava sets her tablet down. “Every day this continues, we lose ground. The launch is in six weeks.”

“I know our timeline.” My voice is curt from controlled anger.

The room falls silent. I never lose my cool—not in board meetings, not with investors, not ever. I close my eyes, gathering myself.

“I'm sorry. That was?—”

My phone vibrates on the desk. Eric's school flashes on the screen. Unexpected calls from his school never mean anything good.

“Ms. Sinclair? This is Principal Martinez from Westlake Academy.”

“Is Eric okay?” My heart pounds.

“He's fine, but... there's been an incident. Someone delivered a package to the front office for Eric. It contained…”

I close my eyes, my fear transforming into fury.

“Let me guess. Lemons?”

“Well yes, rotting lemons and a note. Security has it now, but I think you should come.”

The room spins and I clench the desk to retain control. “I'll be right there.”

I end the call, my hand shaking.

“Wren?” Talia steps toward me.

“They sent something to Eric's school.” My voice sounds distant to my own ears. “Lemons. They targeted my son.”

Raj's face drains of color, letting out a string of expletives. “Holy?—”

“Call Sean.” Talia grabs my purse, handing it to me. “Now.”

I dial his number, fighting panic. He answers on the first ring.

“I'm already in the lobby.” His voice is steady, grounding. “Jen called me.”

Of course she did. Jen's on the emergency contact list for Eric.

“They sent something to his school, Sean.” The professional mask slips and I fight hot tears that sprang to my eyes. “My baby…”