When Anton and Abigail arrived at Binky’s home, Abigail was her usual bright, bubbly self. It was rare to see Binky smile unless she was involved.

“Binky bear,” she said, throwing her arms around him in a warm hug. His smile deepened. “My little nightingale. You look as beautiful as ever, my dear. It’s been far too long since you’ve visited this old man.”

Abigail kissed his cheek. “I’ll have to come see you more often.” “Yes,” Binky said, then glanced at Anton. “For now, go greet Beverly. She’ll be happy to see you, and it’ll give your dad and me a few minutes to talk.” He turned just as Abigail opened her mouth to protest, the finality in his tone leaving no room for argument. “Anton. My office.”

Binky walked in without another word and settled behind his desk. Anton followed slowly, shutting the door behind him before moving to take a seat. “Don’t sit.”

The pleasantness was gone. Anton straightened and faced him.

Binky’s eyes narrowed as he stared him down. “I know you think a lot of things about me, Anton, but I never realized you thought I was a damn fool. Do you really believe I don’t see through your little charade of bringing Abigail here?”

“Benjamin -” “Quiet.” The word stood full of venom. “You begged and pleaded to dip your toes into the exports side of the syndicate, and look at what you’ve done. Doreen’s certainly not an easy pill to swallow, but to offer her up like some sacrificial lamb…that’s low, even for you. My great-granddaughter. More importantly, Don Jacob’s granddaughter. You know better than anyone the emphasis he puts on family, and you gave him a front-row seat to watch you throw Doreen to the wolves.” He shook his head, face twisted with disgust and disappointment. “It was Doreen’s mistake,” Anton said tightly. “I simply sent her to fix it.”

“You should have been there, not Doreen!” Binky’s voice rose. “Or should I just hand my second ring over to her? Or Mickey? Since they seem to be doing all your work for you!”

“I’ll make sure it doesn’t happen again, Benjamin.” “If you even get another chance.” Binky scoffed. “Ralé has called a meeting and he specifically asked that you be there.”

He leaned back, the chair creaking under his weight. His gaze stayed hard and unyielding. “You are on thin ice, Anton. Thinner than you seem to realize.”

Anton opened his mouth, but Binky raised a hand sharply, cutting him off. “Save your excuses. I’ve heard more than enough.” He waved toward the door with clear finality.

Anton stood rigid for a moment, teeth clenched, then left without another word.

Binky stayed seated, staring at the empty space where Anton had stood, his expression dark with lingering frustration.