Chapter 16
I STRIDE BACK INTO THE CONFERENCE ROOM and the table goes silent. I remain standing and look at Phil. “I’d like to say something.”
“Of course.” He nods. “The floor is yours.”
“I agree with Dave.” A few short inhales and mumbles emanate from the suits.
“I should be able to explain how this data came into being.” I glance over to the wall dweller.
“We have looked at purchasing such data to help our sales strategy, but even if we had, it never would have given as complete a picture as what we have in that file.”
Dave opens his mouth to respond, but I speak over him.
“I know a few of you knew Betsey. And a few of you and your teams had issues with her approach. She is smart and diligent but has some rough edges. Things seem to have gone off the rails this last week.” I glance at Hardwin.
“That’s on me. I want to be part of the solution, but I can’t tell you where this data came from. ”
Out of the corner of my eye, I see Dave making a sour face and nodding as if my poor judgment speaks for itself.
But I also notice he is not leaning over to Terrence to share his ever-present thoughts.
He does this with predictable regularity.
Never when Phil or Hardwin are speaking—Dave knows his reach—but he plays confidence-wrecking games with others. Instead, he continues to watch me.
Perhaps he assumes I’m digging my own trap. Perhaps his silence is worse.
I pull my shoulder blades back. I only have myself to offer.
“As to your other recommendation, Dave, I think we should carefully consider whether we take legal action. Maybe Betsey has done us a favor. We needed to know this data was out there and find out if this was an isolated situation orchestrated by her or if we have a bigger problem of data breaches across the company.”
A few of the guys murmur to each other. Did they not discuss if this might only be the tip of the iceberg? What if other unexplainable data files exist? I glance around the table. Who would benefit from data such as this?
If I asked that question out loud, everyone would point to where I stand, my knees locked in solidarity with my rigid shoulders.
I take a measured breath. “As for me, these funds were my idea, my execution, and I want to continue to manage the amazing teams who have supported our success. That being said, my husband was on the phone. We have an urgent situation back at home. I hope you can understand. I have to go.”
I walk toward Phil and extend my arm.
He stands. His thick white eyebrows crash together as he shakes my hand. “Whatever we can do for you and your family. You let us know.”
“I will.” I turn back to the table, finally recognizing the unease that has settled in my chest like rubble from a battle that continues to wage. “I trust you all will make the best decision for the firm and everyone that relies on our integrity. Thanks for letting me speak. I’ll be in touch.”