“It’s a tactic as old as discrimination itself.”
The interview continued for another 30 minutes, with Alicia methodically addressing each criticism that had been leveled against her. Her responses were consistently measured, factual, and devastating in their clarity.
As they wrapped up, Sarah asked one final question.
“What message do you have for others facing similar situations?”
“Know your worth,” Alicia said firmly. “Don’t let anyone convince you to accept disrespect as the price of admission.”
“And remember, when you stand up for yourself, you’re standing up for everyone who comes after you.”
The producers signaled the end of recording. Sarah removed her headphones, looking impressed.
“That was powerful, Alicia. We’ll have this edited and up by tonight.”
“Thank you, Sarah. You asked the right questions.”
Back in her office, Alicia found her team already monitoring the initial response. The unedited interview had been streamed live on the podcast’s premium platform, and clips were spreading rapidly.
“Look at this,” Sasha said, showing her phone. “Black executives across industries are sharing their own stories.”
“Stand with Rhodes is trending.”
Marcus nodded from his desk.
“Former Elite Jets employees are reaching out. They want to talk about their experiences.”
Alicia was reviewing the coverage when Sasha suddenly stiffened, staring at her screen.
“Alicia, you need to see this.”
The email had no subject line and had been sent from an anonymous address. The message was brief but clear.
“Back off now. You have no idea what you’re dealing with.”
“Keep pushing, and we’ll destroy everything you’ve built. Your choice.”
Sasha pulled up more emails, all with similar threats. Each one was more specific than the last, detailing ways they planned to ruin Rhodes Aviation.
Alicia read them calmly, her expression unchanged.
“Forward these to Thomas and our security team.”
“And Sasha?”
“Yes?”
“Order dinner. We’re going to be here late.”
She turned to Marcus.
“Get me everything you can on Elite Jets’ financial structure. Every shell company, every hidden partnership.”
“What are you thinking?” Sasha asked.
Alicia’s smile was subtle but determined.
“They’re threatening us because the interview worked. Now let’s find out what they’re so desperate to hide.”
The morning sun cast long shadows through the windows of Rhodes Aviation’s executive floor as Alicia stepped out of the elevator. At 6:30 a.m., she was usually among the first to arrive, but today a cluster of unfamiliar faces occupied the conference room.
“Morning,” Marcus called out, looking tired but alert. “Cybersecurity team’s already here. They started sweeping our systems at five.”