"I'm sure I would have been told something similar had Marcelo not also been a billionaire." Father had been rather silent about the issue of Marcelo, perhaps because he sensed that it was a non-negotiable issue. There were many things that she had to surrender to him, but that was one thing he would never touch. Or there would be hell to pay.

"I can't blame you for wanting to take him away from all this." Stephanie replied. "But ... you're right. We were miserable without each other." She doubted he would choose to go, either. He had his work, and his other work, and her. And he was not one to cut and run.

"But he will be okay. I know there were many others that weren't so fortunate. If there is anything I can do to help you and your people, just ask."