When Arianne arrived at the designated meeting place to meet some of the partners of the Rochefort Group, she had already received a briefing from Gio earlier and reviewed the reports herself. None of the information was new, but that was enough to set her expectations.
Lucas offered to accompany her, but she declined. She was aware that being seen with Lucas would invite further questions about her authority as Interim CEO.
A waitress greeted them politely at the entrance and led them to the VIP area, where the partners were waiting. The corridor leading inward was narrow, intentionally so. It forced proximity, slowed movement, and encouraged conversation before doors closed.
Arianne walked at an even pace, unhurried. She looked around.
