Gerald asked whether I intended to call the loan. I could have done it. Legally, financially, and strategically, I had every reason to protect my investment. Instead, I explained that I had bought the loan because I believed Northgate deserved one final chance. I offered a restructuring plan, but there would be one condition: an independent auditor would examine every account, every transfer, and every decision surrounding Hamilton. No more hidden debts. No more private explanations.

No more protecting a reputation at the expense of a family. Gerald nodded slowly. “And if I refuse?” he asked. “Then Thursday’s vote goes ahead,” I replied. He understood. For once, there was no argument. He reached across the table and apologized to Daniel for judging him. The apology was awkward and brief, but Daniel accepted it. Then Gerald looked at me and said he wished he had asked who I was before deciding what I was worth. I told him that lesson was worth more than the money. Margaret took his hand beneath the table, and for the first time, Gerald did not pull away or pretend that everything was fine now. It was the first honest conversation they had shared. Nobody objected.