The morning after the boardroom coup, the energy at Carter Industries was charged with rumors, hopes, and an unmistakable buzz of change. Whispers flew through the cubicles and glass offices like wildfire: Max Carter was back, for real this time. Not just in name or title. In presence.
And then came the message.
"All staff meeting at 10:30 AM. Mandatory attendance. Conference Hall A."
By the time the clock ticked close, the hall was full. Every seat taken. Employees from every floor, every department—even those who had once felt invisible to the corporate machine—sat waiting, skeptical but curious. From marketing associates to janitorial staff, to junior programmers and receptionists, all eyes were on the stage.
When Max Carter stepped out under the soft lights, it was the first time m
