I looked up at him, my gaze frosty. "That's your problem, Mr. Updike. If you want me to go to Tom, you'd better work hard to keep the Updike Group afloat until then."

Anthony's face darkened, but he knew he couldn't argue with me. If I got angry, I might refuse to speak with Tom at all, which would seal the fate of the Updike Group.

Forcing a smile, he replied, "Thank you. I hope you'll act soon, Ms. Ozly. After all, you now own half of the Updike Group."

At that, Anthony stepped aside with a nod, and I got back into my car and drove off.

I initially...