“Actually, I haven’t a clue, because those bastards this morning were fairly crystal in their explanation and trust me, I was paying attention,” Addison said, slamming the thick-bottomed glass on the desk. “The way I understand it, and feel free to correct me if I’m wrong, I have just over a month before I will have no recourse but to sit back and watch my company get cut up into little bits and pieces and sold to the highest bidder.” Regarding the woman across the way, Addison narrowed her eyes again. “Now, did I miss anything?”

“Only the fact that by changing what they did this morning, you now have an option.”

Addison’s nostrils flared like a bull about to charge. “That is not an option, and you bloody well know it!” she yelled, sitting forward in her chair.

“Why? It’s a way out, isn’t it?”

“Just because they agreed the company doctrine can’t dictate who I marry since the law has been changed, that doesn’t mean it’s an option. I don’t give a shit if it says man and wife, or wife and wife...it is still not an option!”

“Why not?”

“Because it’s a fucking life sentence and one that I care not enter into, thank you very much,” Addison growled. Grabbing her drink, she downed the contents and then threw the glass across the room.

Francesca had seen several of Addison’s tantrums over the years, so she didn’t blink an eye as the imported crystal met its demise against the wall. “It wouldn’t be for life, Addison,” she said calmly. “We could arrange that it would only last a few years.”

“Oh...and how exactly are we supposed to do that? My ancestors were quite crafty when they wrote up the company's bylaws or weren’t you paying attention?”

“You know I was, but nothing’s impossible. We have a way out, and we should explore it.”

With a snort, Addison shook her head. “You know there’s a fine line between being an optimist and being an idiot, Fran, and right now you’re leaning toward insanity.”

“Maybe so, but it’s a way for you to keep your company, and the last time I checked Kane Holdings was the most important thing in your life.”

“It is!” Addison said, jumping to her feet.

“Well, then we need to find you a wife.”