For the first time, Celeste’s expression betrayed genuine alarm.
“It’s a consulting firm.”
“Who owns it?”
“Why are you asking me that?”
“Because six hundred and eighty thousand dollars has been paid to companies connected to it, and the foundation cannot establish what services were provided.”
Celeste looked toward Eleanor.
“Oh, I see. This is her doing.”
“No,” Daniel said. His voice was quiet, but it did not waver. “The invoices are here. The bank records are here. The auditors are here. Tell me what the company does.”
Celeste placed her portfolio on the table.
“I have spent months building this program. Your mother has undermined every decision because she cannot tolerate anyone else having influence.”
Margaret opened another folder.
“These are copies of the relevant invoices and the company registration records. We would appreciate a factual explanation.”
Celeste glanced at the papers.
Her eyes moved rapidly across the pages, and Eleanor noticed the moment she recognized a particular company name.
It was the smallest change in expression: a tightening around the mouth, a slight pause before she looked up.
But Eleanor had spent decades negotiating contracts and reading people who thought a polished appearance could conceal anything.
She saw it.
“You knew,” Daniel whispered.
Celeste turned toward him.
“Daniel, don’t be ridiculous.”
“You knew the companies were connected.”
“They are legitimate businesses.”
“Then explain the invoices.”
Celeste’s voice sharpened.
“I don’t have to justify every administrative decision to a room full of people who have already decided I’m guilty.”
“No one has declared you guilty,” Margaret replied. “We are asking you to provide evidence supporting the transactions.”
Celeste looked at Eleanor again.
“You wanted this. You wanted me humiliated in front of everyone because you couldn’t accept that your son was building a life with me.”
Eleanor felt the familiar impulse to defend herself, to explain that she had not wanted any of this.
Then she stopped.
