The boardroom at Harrison Industries felt different when I walked in as the new majority owner.  months ago, I'd been Marcus's unwanted wife. Now I controlled the company that had once wanted nothing to do with me.

"The transition has been smoother than expected," Mr. Peterson, the family lawyer, said as he spread documents across the mahogany table. "Your father's decision to transfer his holdings to you has been finalized."

My father sat beside me, looking proud but tired. "It should have ...