CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT - The Hidden Dilemma

One particularly tense afternoon found Ava in a conference room, facing down a group of skeptical board members. Max had been called away to deal with a crisis involving a nervous investor, leaving Ava to handle the presentation on her own. "Gentlemen," Ava began, her voice steady despite her nerves, "I understand your concerns about the recent rumors circulating in the press. However, I can assure you that Bennett Industries today is not the company it was twenty years ago." She launched into a detailed presentation, outlining the company's growth, its ethical practices, and the safeguards put in place to prevent any repeat of past mistakes. As she spoke, Ava could see the board members' expressions shifting from skepticism to interest. "Ms. Hart," one of the older board members said when she finished, "I must say, I'm impressed. You seem to have a remarkably thorough understanding of this company's operations." Ava smiled, feeling a surge of confidence. "Thank you, sir. I believe