Chapter 14 - The Final Boardroom Judgment And The Eight-Year Sentence
Across town on Fifth Avenue, the executive boardroom of Lombardi Atelier was holding its annual general meeting.
Massimo Lombardi sat at the head of the long mahogany table, flanked by the international board of directors.
The corporate secretary presented the final audited financial statements.
"All assets stolen by Hale Capital Management have been fully recovered, with an additional $18 million in compensatory and punitive damages collected from the liquidation of the defendants' personal holdings," the secretary reported. "The brand reputation has reached an all-time high, with global demand for the Lombardi Constellation Suite exceeding all historical records."
The chairman of the board turned to Massimo. "Mr. Lombardi, the state appellate court has officially rejected Vanessa Hale’s appeal. Her seven-year sentence at Bedford Hills is final. Grant Hale’s transfer to federal penitentiary has been completed with zero infractions permitted."
Massimo nodded once, turning to the executive committee.
"Today, I am officially announcing my retirement as Chief Executive Officer of Lombardi Atelier," Massimo announced.
The boardroom erupted into stunned murmurs.
Massimo raised his hand, commanding immediate silence.
"I will remain as Chairman of the Board of Trustees," he continued. "However, the operational leadership, creative direction, and full controlling equity of our luxury divisions are hereby transferred to an independent trust established exclusively for Isabella Lombardi and Elena Lombardi."
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He signed the transfer deed with his gold fountain pen, closed the leather binder, and stood up.
"The future of this family does not belong to old men who fight in the shadows," Massimo said, looking around the room of corporate titans. "It belongs to the children who carry our blood into the light."
