CHAPTER ELEVEN - Unsettling Truths

Max clutched his chest in mock hurt. "You wound me. I'll have you know I'm a delight to be around." "When you're not here, maybe," Ava quipped. She hesitated, then added, "Actually, Max, there's something I need to discuss with you. It's about MaxTech." Max's smile faded slightly. "What about it?" "I was reviewing their quarterly reports, and there are some inconsistencies—" Max waved a dismissive hand. "I'm sure it's nothing. Probably just a clerical error." "But—" "Ava," Max cut her off, his tone firm. "I appreciate your diligence, but let's not blow things out of proportion. MaxTech's been underperforming, sure, but that's why we brought in new management last quarter. Give them time to turn things around." Ava bit her lip, frustration bubbling up inside her. "Max, I really think you should take a look at—" "Enough," Max said, his voice sharp. "I didn't hire you to play detective, Ava. You're my secretary. Leave the financial decisions to those qualified to make them." Ava