Page 69 of Cru's Crush

“I actually have a question for you unrelated to my dad. At least directly.”

“What is it?”

“How well do you know Steve Dorian?”

“Slimy bastard,” Martin muttered under his breath.

“He called a few minutes ago, saying he was the Cullen House’s chairman of board. He requested a meeting with me.”

“This isn’t good,” Martin muttered.

“Why? What’s going on?”

“He requested my resignation as well as Hewitt’s.”

“When?”

“Yesterday.”

“What the fuck, Martin?” I screeched, then lowered my voice. “Wait. I’m sorry. That was uncalled for.”

“Don’t apologize, Daphne. I’ve spoken to Hewitt, and we both believe he’s attempting to take control of Cullen House.”

“And force my father out when he’s lying in a hospital bed in a coma?”

“I believe that is the case, yes. He’s identified a vulnerability and intends to exploit it.”

“My God, my father mightdie.” I looked up and saw my mother standing right outside my door. “I’ve got to go, Martin.”

“I’ll be in touch, Daphne. Hewitt and I both have friends who are still on the board. I’ll see if I can find out how much support Dorian has been able to finagle.”

I dropped my mobile on the bed, took my mother’s hand, and led her into the room.

“Who were you talking to?” she asked when we sat beside each other on the edge of the bed.

“Martin Barrett. Mum, how much do you know about Steve Dorian?”

“He’s trying to steal your father’s company.”

“Does Dad know that?”

She nodded. “I think it’s what led to his stroke.”

“I’m sorry to ask this of you, but can you please tell me everything you know about it? About him?”

19

CRU

“When’s the last time you spoke with Daphne?” Beau asked when I answered his call.

“A few hours ago. Why? Has something happened?”

“I got a call from my dad. He said one of the board members is trying to stage a coup.”

“What are you talking about?”

“My dad thinks he intends to take control of Cullen House.”