The shining champagne flute Ethan held seemed as inviting as it sparkled, like a gesture extended to someone who had not yet taken it up.
He scanned the figures of the gathering while the voice chimed and twirled.
A glistening boundary surrounded by men in smart suits and women in gorgeous evening gowns, mingling and dancing to subdued chatter, marking the yearly gathering for top industry professionals to network and solidify deals.
Ethan put on his professional facade, the one he wore to convey to others that everything was okay with him.
He spotted another woman he knew at the event, and as she walked past, she received a smile and a nod.
Initially, viewers would perceive an attractive, confident, and highly successful corporate leader.
However, there was a void within him.
The clamor of laughter and the noise of shattering glass drowned out the chatter of the guests, as if they were coming from deep twenty feet beneath them.
He experienced a sense of detachment from his identity as if he were observing his actions in a separate narrative.
Ethan observed another person performing all the tasks that he should have been doing.
Eventually, the eyes lost focus and settled on that specific area of the room, where a big painting of his deceased spouse, Lila, hung above the unused fireplace.
His heart was burdened with guilt as he averted his gaze.
Despite three years passing since Lila's death, Ethan's sorrow remained as strong as ever.
People believed that time heals all wounds, but for him, as time passed, he found himself sinking into a deepening emptiness and despair.
However, they have not been able to succeed in his case at this time.
For a considerable period, the board members have been deliberating on the significance of certain choices, yet the level of urgency in these deliberations has been minimal.
Investors are beginning discussions.
In the business world, any company Ethan Harrington has been associated with and has established stability is perceived in specific manners.
Everyone regrets instructing him because his business is so successful.
His private life is shrouded in silence due to his decision to remain quiet.
During that meeting, he heard an individual, whom he chose not to identify, say, "... He needs to leave…".
The investors no longer have trust in him.
He has been holding on to the past for three years and has not moved on.
"I'm not concerned about what magic he discovers, but he must figure out how to utilize it."
The comment went unheard and was completely overlooked by everyone.
When there is no other choice available, the same words in the phrase begin to be repeated; then, they return and await the opposing words.
However, it still seemed unattainable to maintain friendly relationships with his competitors and strive diligently through any means available.
However, these discussions were short-lived, lasting no longer than ten minutes before a break for coffee ensued.
Ethan! Hey, Ethan! Here you are.
What a weight off my shoulders! I have searched almost everywhere for you.
At the sound of his name, he looked around and saw Richard Calloway, a senior board member, coming towards him with a big smile.
Richard, a tall and imposing man in his mid-fifties, had salt-and-pepper hair and a natural charm that contributed to the company's initial achievements.
Briefly, Ethan hesitated to smile, but eventually did and greeted Richard by saying, "Good to see you."
Richard greeted Ethan warmly, clapping him on the back a little too enthusiastically.
"Doesn't this event grow larger each year?
Ethan confirmed, observing the room. He observed influential figures in the industry socializing, and engaging in casual conversation that frequently resulted in major business agreements.
This was meant to be his domain - connecting, planning, and showcasing his leadership prowess.
However, this evening, everything seemed far away.
"Great job, Ethan," Richard commented, his voice turning serious.
Harrington Enterprises is very pleased with the past year, which has been incredibly enlightening.
During our phone call, I chatted with some of the company's fans, who seemed pleased with the most recent figures.
Ethan admitted this even though he had a feeling of what was going to occur. Hovering on the fringes of his consciousness.
"But," Richard added in a lower tone, "there have been some... issues, shall we say.
Investors prefer faith in the individuals they support, rather than just focusing on the statistics.
Ethan clenched his jaw. "I know." He said.
Richard moved closer, leaning in slightly.
"They desire stability, Ethan."
They desire assurance that the individual in charge of overseeing their investments possesses a secure lifestyle.
And they're beginning to question... if perhaps you're trapped in history.
"What are you wondering about?" Ethan asked, his voice sharper than he had meant.
Richard took a deep breath and checked his surroundings to ensure no one was
listening or observing them.
They question whether you are too fixated on the past to envision the future.
Listen, we are aware of the significance Lila had in your life.
Alternatively, they are highly concerned about your stability being uncertain and whether you can be relied upon to handle the business without personal problems hindering your performance.
They seek assurance that Harrington Enterprises is under stable leadership.
Upon hearing the suggestion, Ethan experienced his fists tightening and his anger rises
He wondered why a person's private life would impact their ability to lead.
However, deep inside, Ethan admitted that he was not entirely wrong; Richard was correct.
In the business world, perception is important.
Investors desired assurance, not a person they perceived as trapped in a cycle of sorrow.
"I'm good, really," Ethan replied confidently.
"I am operating the business with the same level of efficiency as I was before."
"I am aware you have," Richard said, his tone becoming more gentle.
However, that is insufficient for their needs.
They desire something beyond numerical figures.
They desire to witness your progress. And they will begin to request it shortly.
He sadly looked into his drink, observing the bubbles floating to the surface one by one.
Nevertheless, this did not appear to benefit him.
"Ethan," Richard whispered, "they're letting you decide." You must demonstrate that you are progressing.
If you fail to... they will begin seeking new leaders.
Ethan quickly lifted his head. "Is there a new leader?"
Richard nodded with a somber expression. "They're already discussing it."
They could consider changing direction if they do not see immediate results.
And I think you know just as well as I do that the board can't handle any more bad news right now.
We are currently in charge of various projects.
Ethan's mind started to think rapidly. Imagining someone else owning his business was an unthinkable concept. That's what they built—belonging to him and Lila.
Everything they achieved together. He couldn't let it go. Nevertheless, he couldn't bring himself to stay still either.
He kept wearing his wedding ring, a discreet but lasting reminder of their life together.
Richard continued, his voice quiet, stressing that this was no longer solely about the company.
It concerns you. Investors are beginning to doubt your ability to continue leading.
"Is there an option available to me?" Ethan inquired with a bitter tone.
Richard paused. No, not truly. If you don't take action promptly, they will put pressure on you.
The harsh truth hit Ethan hard, smothering him.
Richard patted him on the shoulder once more, attempting to offer a comforting smile.
"See, you still have plenty of time." Simply consider the words I have spoken.
We all support you, Ethan. "You're aware of that."
Ethan nodded without feeling anything as Richard walked away and vanished among the crowd.
Laughter and conversation filled the room, but it felt distant, akin to white noise.
However, not everything was alright. He had to decide between the company they created together and her memory.
No matter what he did, he couldn't shake the feeling of betraying either her or himself.
The day after, Ethan had an emergency.
He decided on what to do immediately.