As Clay grappled with how far he could stretch the truth, Valerie's fingers snapped sharply, prompting the video to resume.
The screen filled with the image of Patricia questioning, "Who are you, and who has given you the authority to be here?" Her tone was caught by the recording, even though the lens was angled towards the ground and her face remained out of view.
Valerie's voice came with clarity, "My identity shouldn't concern you, but let it be known that both of you are dismissed."
"You can't simply dismiss us," Clay's voice entered the conversation. "We demand evidence, and remind you that you are not part of the executive team. We shall refute your allegations, standing united as a team."
"It's all over. I admit my fault, and I am sorry," Clay's voice broke through the playback, but Valerie didn't concede, instantly countering.
"You squandered your opportunity." The video persisted, emphasizing the heavy burden of guilt that Clay and Patricia now bore.
