JULIAN

The week after the signing was the quietest week I'd had in months, no threatening calls, no lawyers with urgent documents, no board members expressing concern about acquisitions or media campaigns, just work, normal, routine and manageable work.

I arrived at the office Monday morning to find my assistant already at her desk with coffee waiting.

"Good morning, Mr. Cross," she greeted. "Light schedule today. Thomas Greene called to confirm the quarterly review on Wednesday, and Charles Ashford sent flowers."

"Flowers?" I repeated.

"On your desk," She confirmed with a slight smile.

I went into my office and found a tasteful arrangement with a card.

*Well done. Cross Industries...