The room is silent.
Then Janet Park speaks. "I've heard enough. I'm voting for Tony."
Victoria's face tightens. "Mrs. Park, the numbers-"
"The numbers are meaningless if the company doesn't exist in five years." Park's voice is firm. "I'm voting for stability and for integrity. For someone who actually cares about what he's building."
"That's four votes for Tony," someone tallies.
Two more board members raise their hands. "Make that six."
We need one more. Just one.
Robert Gale hasn't moved, still undecided.
He was the tiebreaker.
"Mr. Gale?" Victoria's voice has an edge now. "Surely you see the financial benefit-"
"I need more assurance," Gale interrupts, looking at me. "Some guarantee that Tony won't be distracted again. That this relationship drama won't affect the company."
Victoria pounces. "See? Even your supporters doubt you."
And in that moment, I know what I have to do.
I reach into my pocket and pull out the promise ring.
