“I came to announce two things,” Raymond declared. “First, my daughter is officially returning to the Harrell family.

Every humiliation she suffered will be reviewed, documented, and addressed.”

Spencer breathed with difficulty as my father continued. “Second, the Harrell Group cancels from this moment all negotiations, investments, and alliances with the Apex Group.”

The impact was immediate. A man dropped his glass, and several of Spencer’s executives exchanged terrified looks.

“You can’t do that!” Spencer said, losing his temper. “We’ve been negotiating for eight months.”

“I do business with people, not papers,” Raymond replied. “And you’ve just shown me what kind of person you are.”