CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY-SEVEN - When Social Media Becomes the Jury

The use of her childhood nickname nearly broke Ava's composure. She swallowed hard. "I appreciate that. But really, I'm okay. We're handling it." After assuring her parents once more and ending the call, Ava took a moment to collect herself before stepping into the lobby. The scene that greeted her was chaotic. A group of about twenty protesters sat in a circle, chanting slogans and holding signs. Security guards formed a perimeter around them, looking unsure of how to proceed. Ava approached one of the guards. "What's the situation?" "They rushed in about ten minutes ago, Ms. Hart," the guard explained. "They're not violent, but they're refusing to leave. We're waiting on orders on how to proceed." Ava nodded, then stepped forward, addressing the group. "I'm Ava Hart, COO of Bennett Enterprises. I understand you have concerns. Would one of you like to speak with me about them?" The chanting stopped, and the protesters exchanged glances. Finally, a young woman stood up. "Why shoul