“Please welcome Charlotte Hayes.”
Julian dropped his champagne glass.
Charlotte stepped onto the stage wearing a deep emerald gown that reflected the room’s golden lights while projecting quiet authority.
Her voice carried easily through the ballroom.
“Steel is the backbone of modern civilization,” she began calmly. “It demands integrity from those who use it.”
Then her gaze moved deliberately toward Julian’s table.
“Hayes Industrial Group therefore reserves the right to choose its partners carefully.”
The room remained silent.
“Effective immediately,” Charlotte continued, “all steel supply contracts with AeroBridge Technologies are terminated.”
Gasps rippled through the audience.
“We believe the leadership of that organization lacks the ethical stability required for collaboration.”
Within minutes financial markets reacted.
