TEARS

Ryder can't believe what he is hearing. His buddy just signed a partnership contract? As he thinks about it all he can see is money–so much money for the both of them.

He couldn't keep the smile from breaking out on his face. "This is fantastic news, friend. Wow, I'm so overjoyed for you. Everything is just falling into place for you. I'm so happy for you, man. I mean, I truly am."

He certainly is. For him, his friend deserves everything he is getting right now because he has been having problems for a few days now. At the very least, all of this is compensating for the previous difficulties. That's fantastic.

Brooks couldn't agree more. He feels so proud of himself. From an empire with no partnerships to one with two significant partnerships and one merger.

As his pride builds to its zenith, he can't keep his wings from flapping.

For the first time in his life, he believes he has made the breakthrough he has been seeking. He will no longer seek the lady for any reason other than