Samuel's expression hardened. "Then I implement the backup plan. I've been quietly building independent business relationships and resources for the past two years. I can survive separately from the family business if necessary. It won't be comfortable, and I'll lose access to a lot of resources, but I'll survive."
He looked up at Heena.
"You'd survive too. As my legal wife, you have certain property rights and protections even if the family business collapses. I made sure of that in our marriage contract."
Heena hadn't actually read the marriage contract carefully—she'd just put her thumbprint on it during the ceremony. But she appreciated that Samuel had thought to protect her interests.
"You're more considerate than I gave you credit for," she admitted.
Samuel smiled. "Don't sound so surprised. I told you I wanted a genuine partnership. Partners protect each other."
There was a moment of comfortable silence between them.
