Chapter Two: Questions Without Easy Answers
The board ordered an internal review rather than jumping to conclusions.
Independent investigators interviewed staff, reviewed access logs, and examined electronic records.
Over the next several days, the picture became clearer.
Veronica had repeatedly presented herself as someone authorized to assist with Foundation affairs despite having no official role.
Several employees admitted they had felt pressured to cooperate because she frequently appeared with Ethan.
Ethan insisted he knew nothing about the documents.
Whether that was true remained uncertain.
As evidence accumulated, Chairman Ashcroft addressed the executive committee.
"Our responsibility is not to protect reputations."
He paused.
May you like
"It is to protect the integrity of this institution."
The committee voted unanimously to suspend all pending financial decisions until the review was complete.
