Chapter 11 - The Global Expansion Audit
By the spring of 2030, Whitmore Freight’s international logistics expansion had reached its critical operational phase. Our maritime shipping routes across the Atlantic had integrated with key European rail corridors, driving company valuation to unprecedented heights.
Inside the executive boardroom on the thirty-second floor, the morning sun cast long geometric patterns across the teak conference table. Naomi Price sat beside me, passing around bound leather folders containing the Q1 international audit results.
"Our European distribution centers in Rotterdam and Hamburg are operating at ninety-four percent efficiency," Naomi reported, pointing to the digital performance metrics on the wall display. "The automated freight tracking system you commissioned two years ago has reduced transit delays by thirty percent, completely insulating us from regional supply chain shocks."
Director Harrison leaned back in his chair, smiling warmly across the table. "Arthur would be extraordinarily proud, Sarah. When your father founded this company with a single truck, he envisioned a regional powerhouse. You’ve turned it into a global standard."
"Dad laid the foundation, Harrison," I replied, setting down my pen. "We simply built the structure to match his integrity."
As the board members murmured their agreement, Naomi slid a secondary, smaller folder across the blotter toward me. It was stamped with the seal of the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
"What's this?" I asked softly.
"Evan’s formal petition for early termination of supervised release," Naomi explained quietly. "His public defender submitted a request based on time served and compliance with his work-release employment. The court requires a statement from the primary victim and board chairperson before ruling."
I opened the folder, scanned the brief, single-page petition, and closed it without hesitation.
May you like
"Inform the magistrate that Whitmore Freight takes no official position on his release," I said, my voice completely level. "His status is a matter for the justice system. He holds no relevance to this company or my life."
Naomi nodded, taking the folder back. "Consider it filed."
Related Stories
