Out of the corner of my eye, I see Jake's jaw drop. My mother is frantic that he would do something so foolish; my sisters argue whether our father even di it; Daniel goes even further challenging my father asking if he did the despicable act - an action that can hurt us all financially while hurting the company as well.
My father remains silent throughout the outbursts - caught off guard from the whole family questioning him.
Finally, my father speaks up.
“I did what I had to do for the company. We were on our last leg and something had to be done to keep it afloat. Without it, there would be nothing left of the family business.”
Jake and Daniel are both lawyers and know the road ahead. “Depending on how badly this goes, it won't just bankrupt you, but all of us. Was it worth it?”
Tears start in his eyes. “Yes, even if it meant sacrificing my morals, it's important that the company survive. You kids deserve something to hand down to your kids someday.”
Jake steps in. “George must accept responsibility for his actions now so that we can all move forward together as a family.”
I see Jake and Daniel exchanging glances; they understand that this is serious if a lawsuit ensues.
Everyone goes quiet as if waiting for me to explain further. “You all deserved to know instead of finding out in the papers. It's only a matter of time before someone picks up on this.”
The entire family is staring at my father who can't seem to shake his... what is it? It's not remorse. He doesn't enjoy disappointing his family, but it's not the same as remorse.
“You don't understand how close we were to bankruptcy. Creditors breathing down my neck calling every day asking when payments are expected- something drastic had to be done fast.”
My mother stands up after being quiet this whole time. “And instead of coming to us, your family, and letting us help, you did something that jeopardizes everyone instead? Something like this doesn't just effect you. Now Dixon has to pick up the pieces with everyone wondering if he is just like you. No matter what, he didn't deserve that. Your sons are lawyers - why not ask them?”
My father hangs his head in shame. We all know that whatever we do moving forward has to reflect more positively on the family business - otherwise, it could spell doom for Legacy Industries.
As if sensing what I'm about to say next my mother breaks the silence. “Dixon, you don't have to do anything…”
But before she can finish I interrupt her. “I’m going to go into an interview and discuss what steps we need to take so that this doesn't happen again.”
Jake nods. My sisters gives me a look of encouragement while Daniel just looks at me, waiting for something else from me; they both understood there is no other way out now - not when it's my face people will associate with Legacy Industries now because of this fiasco caused by our father's mistake.
My father gives my mother a sad smile. “When it comes to business, I do what I think is the best course of action - and quickly. I get results.” He turns his attention towards me now. “You are my youngest son, but you weren't born yesterday. I want you to go to the interview and just tell the truth. I'll handle the backlash. Just make sure the company survives - It's your face people will see for the company now. I know you can do it.”
I give a curt nod in response and walk out of the dining room, my thoughts heavy with responsibility. It will not be easy getting people to trust that Legacy Industries is still an honest business after this gets out into the world, but if there is anyone who can do it, it's me.
My father's actions are going to cost us either way; whether we fight it legally or accept what Clara counters. I hope we can move forward and bring Legacy back to where it should be.
Stepping outside, I take a deep breath as I approach my car parked in front of the house and get inside. My head is spinning as I drive towards home. Thinking about Clara, who has to decide how much money covers the damage my father has done. None of us would be in this mess right now if my father would have just stuck to his morals.
12
Chloe
Sundays have always been a day that I don't get out of my pajamas. I like to lounge around the house, catch up on shows and relax. The weekends always go by so fast. The past week has been stressful to say the least, especially with everything going on with George and the designs. What are the employees going to think when this gets out? So many of us have a good relationship with him, and this information completely contradicts the man I know. Although, sometimes people will do anything to get ahead in business.
This next week is going to be crucial in keeping the business running and my department will be at the forefront. It is time for me to put my skills to use as well as everyone in the marketing department to take care of this online. Cancel culture is very real and many businesses have gone under do to a viral video or post. Legacy Inc. doesn't deserve to go out of business because of what George did. Dixon is proving to be more than capable of running this business, and has a good head on his shoulders. His nobility of going against his father, which might result in legal action, proves that he wants what is best for the company overall.
My phone vibrates against the coffee table and I hesitate to pick it up. I stare at it, trying to stay strong, but end up getting it anyway.
Dixon: Can you meet for dinner? My treat.
Things between us seem to have gotten more on the personal side lately, not that I am complaining about getting to know him on a much deeper level, but I need to keep myself in check. Having feelings for my boss isn't exactly a good thing. It's the old saying. You can't control who you fall in love with. In this case, helping him through this difficult time, I have been able to see a different side to him. A side that intrigues me.
My career has always come first. Sure, I have dated, but nothing serious in the last ten years. To be honest, my focus has always been on getting the big promotion and now that I have it, I am starting to realize all the things I have put on the backburner. Some nights I come home and miss having someone to talk to. A partner. It might be time for me to open myself up to finding someone.
Me: Sure. Where? When?
This is a strictly professional dinner, of course. It isn't like he is asking me out on a date. Right now, I am the only person besides the lawyers that knows about the issue. So, it's natural for him to talk to me about it. Or is there something more going on?
