Page 20 of Entwined
I met his gaze evenly, refusing to let his skepticism shake me. “I understand your concerns, Mr. Davenport. But during the past few months, I’ve worked closely with Colson, taking an active role in managing various aspects of the company.
I’ve familiarized myself with our key offerings, our client base, and our strategic objectives. More importantly, I share Colson’s vision for the future of Ashworth Financial, and I believe my background in finance and my commitment to this company make me well-suited to lead.”
Another board member, Barbara Klein, leaned forward, her expression thoughtful. “And what would you say to those who believe Vaughn should hold the position solely? He has more experience within the company, after all.”
I paused, choosing my words carefully. “Vaughn’s experience is invaluable, and I respect the work he’s done here. However, Colson believed that a balanced approach was necessary, and that both of us working together would benefit the company. My strengths complement Vaughn’s, and together, I believe we can drive Ashworth Financial forward.”
A murmur of conversation rippled through the room as the board members considered my words. Vaughn’s expression darkened, but he remained silent.
Finally, Vaughn spoke, his voice laced with disdain. “With all due respect, Josephine, this isn’t about balance. It’s about who’s better suited to lead. And that’s me.”
I met his gaze, keeping my tone calm but firm. “This isn’t about who’s better suited, Vaughn. It’s about what’s best for the company. And that’s what Colson wanted—for us to work together.”
Vaughn scoffed, leaning back in his chair. “Colson isn’t here anymore, Joey. And I won’t be sidelined by someone who’s only been here for three years.”
“Enough,” Martin interjected, his voice cutting through the tension. “We’re here to vote on Colson’s request, not to air personal grievances.”
The room fell silent as Martin called for the vote. My heart pounded in my chest as I watched the process unfold, trying to read the expressions of the board members. Vaughn’s glare was like a physical weight pressing down on me, but I refused to back down.
Finally, Martin collected the ballots and reviewed them, his face unreadable. When he looked up, the room held its breath.
“The majority has voted in favor of Colson’s request,” Martin announced, his tone even. “Josephine, you will assume the role of Co-CEO alongside Vaughn.”
Relief washed over me, though I kept my expression composed. Vaughn, on the other hand, looked as if the ground had been pulled out from under him. His fists clenched on the table, but he said nothing.
“Thank you,” I said, addressing the board. “I’m honored by your confidence, and I look forward to working with all of you to continue Colson’s vision.”
Martin nodded, signaling the end of the meeting. “We’ll have the necessary documents prepared. Congratulations, Josephine.”
As the board members began to gather their things and exit the room, Vaughn remained seated, his eyes burning into me with a fury that left no doubt in my mind—this wasn’t over. I stood,smoothing down my dress, and met his gaze one last time before turning to leave.
I walked down the hall, my heels clicking against the polished floor, each step a reminder that I had won this battle. But the war, I knew, was far from over. Working with Vaughn would be a delicate balance.
Chapter 9
Over the next few weeks, Vaughn and I settled into a precarious rhythm, the tension between us a constant undercurrent. As Co-CEOs of Ashworth Financial, we had no choice but to work together, but Vaughn’s resentment festered with every passing day. He blamed me for everything, Colson’s will, the company, the mansion. It was as if I had stolen the future he believed was rightfully his.
Despite the animosity, I focused on the work, trying to keep our interactions civil. Vaughn, however, made no such effort. His passive-aggressive comments and pointed glares were a daily reminder of the bitterness that simmered just beneath the surface. But I refused to let him rattle me. Colson had trusted me with this responsibility, and I wouldn’t let Vaughn’s spitefulness derail me.
One evening, after a particularly long day, I returned to the mansion, hoping for a moment of peace. I found Vaughn in the grand living room, a glass of whiskey in hand, staring into the flames of the fireplace. The flickering light cast shadows across his face, making his expression unreadable.
“Long day?” I asked, keeping my tone neutral as I removed my coat.
He took a slow sip of his drink before responding, his voice flat. “You could say that.”
Something in his tone made me pause, but I pushed forward. “We need to keep things professional, Vaughn. The board expects us to work together.”
A bitter laugh escaped him as he set his glass down on the mantel with a sharp clink. “Professional. That’s rich, coming from you.”
I crossed my arms, meeting his gaze head-on. “What’s that supposed to mean?”
He turned to face me fully, his eyes narrowing. “You think you can just waltz in and take everything that’s mine? The company, the mansion…”
“The company was Colson’s, and the mansion belongs to the family,” I cut in, my patience fraying. “You’re not the only one with a stake in this, Vaughn.”
His eyes flashed with anger. “You don’t get it, do you? This was supposed to be my life. My future. And now, thanks to you, it’s all slipping away.”
I swallowed hard, refusing to show how much his words stung. “You can’t blame me for everything. This isn’t just about you.”
