An hour later, Emerald sat across from Ross Bumard-the head of the Bumards-in his study. "Ross, what do you want in exchange for Brian?"

Ross had gray hair, a deeply lined face, and a sharp, calculating glint in his blue eyes. He smiled wryly. "Emerald, if Brian hit one of our people, don't you think compensation is due? Otherwise, if the word gets out, our family will suffer in terms of reputation."

Emerald's tone was icily cold. "Just tell me your terms."

"I've heard the Nixons recently purchased a plot of land in the south," Ross said smoothly.

Emerald's face clouded over. "That land isn't available." She had bought the...