Chapter 22

"Even worse than that." Disgust flashed in Sierra's eyes. "Richard tried to use his family's influence to manipulate me. When I refused, he threatened to withdraw his investment. He even accused Gemstone Company of stealing our core algorithm from Upton Group's technology." Now, Aaron understood. This was the reason. "So, you worked non-stop to buy back all the Uptons' shares?" "Yes. It took me two years." Sierra turned her gaze to the window. "Richard isn't the real problem. The bigger threat is Roland, the man pulling the strings behind him. That old fox has ties to half the tech companies in Dewsbury." Aaron stared directly at her. "So, am I just a pawn in your battle against the Uptons?" The bluntness of the question took Sierra by surprise. She paused for a moment before turning to him with a slight smile. "Not exactly. What I really need are your management skills. Your history with the Butterfields is just a nice extra." "I've got to hand it to you for being upfront," Aaro