Kathrine didn't miss the faint glint in her eyes.
"I hope everything is well with him," Norma continued.
Kathrine straightened slightly.
"He's recovering," she said evenly. "The doctors are optimistic."
"That's reassuring," Norma replied, though her expression suggested otherwise. "A weakened patriarch tends to create instability in a corporation."
"Our corporation is stable," Kathrine said firmly.
Norma set the paperweight back down with a soft click.
"For now," she said.
Silence stretched between them.
"If you're concerned about leadership," Kathrine continued, her voice steady, "you're welcome to review our quarterly performance. We've exceeded projections."
"Oh, I'm not questioning your numbers," Norma replied. "I'm questioning timing."
"Timing of what?"
"Transitions," Norma said smoothly. "When a powerful man falters, others begin circling."
Kathrine's gaze sharpened.
"Are you circling, Madam?" she asked quietly.
Norma smiled again, this time slower.
