After all, just because, Tony allowed his defenses to wane, he couldn’t allow Sophia’s rash decision to change his ultimate plans. Her art career was finally receiving warranted attention. She truly had talent. He even owned many of her pieces. They were displayed in New York, Phoenix, and Dallas... if he remembered correctly. It didn’t seem right to have her work displayed at the estate. Damn, if he hadn’t been so preoccupied with Claire...

Leaning back in his luxurious leather chair, Tony’s mind slipped back to his wife. He didn’t regret marrying her; it surprised him how much he usually enjoyed being with her. In the past, beautiful women had their purpose, like anything else: a nice car, a priceless antique... It took Tony awhile to realize Claire was different, not someone to use when he wanted and forget until the desire returned. No, she wasn’t like one of his many expensive cars. And she wasn’t just a beautiful ornament to have on his arm at functions, although she played that role to perfection.

Tony’s realization hit months ago when he realized it didn’t matter if she were dressed in designer gowns with perfect hair and perfect makeup or newly awake with no makeup and tussled hair. He no longer saw the difference. For a man who valued outward appearance as much as Anthony Rawlings, that insight was shocking.

When he first brought her to the estate, he never intended to enjoy her, much less love her. Truthfully, it was initially determined she and her sister would have accidents, much sooner -- years sooner, like their parents. However, as he began following Claire and her life, there was an undeniable attraction. Then at her parent’s funeral for no particular reason, Tony fought the urge to comfort her. At that moment, he knew he wanted her for himself. Truthfully, Emily’s survival has been a byproduct.

As a man who makes money -- lots of money, buying and selling -- rarely does Anthony Rawlings become emotionally vested in projects or people. Initially, he saw Claire the same way; however, after his acquisition, as weeks and months passed, despite her situation, she worked her way into his being -- into every fiber. Her strength to meet him with eyes on fire while her words and body appeased, fascinated Tony. Never had anyone done that.

Smiling, he recalled their amazing honeymoon. The isolation of the island paradise kept he and Claire within the confines of a private bubble. Yet, as always, life intervenes. Back to Iowa meant disruptions. Being a multibillion dollar company, there were always issues with Rawlings Industry. The stock price was up, but there were always fires in need of dousing. A recent acquisition in Missouri was currently raging.

On top of Rawlings Industries and Sophia, Tony had to deal with John Vandersol. The man absolutely infuriated Tony. Never had he met a more arrogant, self-righteous prick. Tony did his research. He knew John was accomplished. Every account Tony uncovered was flattering -- some to the point of nausea. It was hard to believe anyone could be as perfect as everyone’s account of John Vandersol.

During their first meeting, Tony was determined to play nice, for Claire. It was after all, his olive branch to his fiancée. Thanksgiving went well. The ladies didn’t seem to recognize the subtle feather ruffling and posturing which occurred on multiple occasions.

He tried to endure John because of Emily, Claire’s sister. Tony knew Claire wanted to see her family. He also knew Claire obeyed his rules while alone with her sister. After all, he listened intently to the recordings of each private conversation; from their after dinner catch-up in New York, to their giggling girls’ sleep over prior to the wedding. Never once did Claire allude to her and Tony’s less than conventional beginning. He was extremely proud of his wife’s obedience.

Allowing his mind to change directions, perhaps Claire had earned the right to spend some time away from the estate. He would reconsider that possibility.

Rubbing his temples, Tony contemplated John Vandersol’s future as he remembered the man’s past. Their first open disagreement occurred the night following Thanksgiving, regarding the prenuptial agreement. Tony was both amused and shocked by John’s impudence. The man actually thought he could persuade Claire to defy Tony’s authority. Smiling to himself, Tony knew he’d trained Claire too well. Public defiance from his wife wasn’t a concern. Nonetheless, John’s audacity agitated Tony beyond words.

And then there was the wedding rehearsal -- where John didn’t give Claire away. It was at that moment, as Tony stared into Claire’s anxious eyes, when Tony determined John Vandersol will pay. This insolent man not only upset him, but his words caused Tony’s future wife distress. Her connection with John was his only saving grace. By causing her discomfort, at her own wedding rehearsal, John secured his own demise.

Tony’s first plan was brilliant: offer John a job. It appeared as though Tony was taking the high road, recognizing John’s superior legal abilities, offering him an exorbitant amount of money and pleasing Claire. It was win – win. Rawlings Industries could always use another competent attorney, but he’d be under Tony’s thumb.

Nonetheless, in the ultimate act of defiance, John Vandersol refused Tony’s offer. It was an act which has infuriated Tony ever since he learned of it two weeks ago. He hadn’t told Claire until a few hours ago.

Tony was certain Claire understood the implications (her ability to see her sister now or in the future was in serious jeopardy) without Tony spelling them out. That was good because the thought of his wife’s family caused his blood to boil, and it was truly better for Claire, if he didn’t experience that feeling while in her presence.