In their figurative game of chess, Anthony Rawlings had Claire in check. Every move she made, he countered. When she wanted their dinner to be public, he made it private. When she wanted to surprise him at a public event, he chose to make it the stage for their refound allegiance.

*****

After Claire regained her composure in the St. Regis Penthouse, Tony ordered crackers and cheese to the suite. While Claire ate and sipped a soda, Tony asked for her purse. Although, she didn’t want to relinquish it, the recent change of events and his familiar domineering demeanor left her momentarily unable to resist. In a matter of minutes her world had returned to his control.

Taking her elegant black clutch, Tony removed her iPhone, turned it off and placed it in the breast pocket of his silk shirt. Then he methodically unzipped and searched each compartment of the bag.

 Finally Claire asked, “What are you looking for?”

“Your work phone.”

“It isn’t here. I left it in my condo.” That statement was true in all aspects, except that it wasn’t a work phone, but Claire’s only communication with Courtney.

“As you may remember, while at a function such as this, your attention should be on me and your duties at hand. I believe tonight you’re representing SiJo Gaming.” Despite the recent snack, hearing Tony say Simon’s company made Claire’s stomach twist. His tone and expression hardened, “As well as representing it to the masses downstairs, your behavior will go a long way in solving their current situation, or...” he paused, “making it public.”

Claire nodded, then remembering his propensity for verbal responses she replied, “I understand.”

“I am glad you do. You’ll get your phone back when this evening is done. I believe you’ll have enough on your plate, you don’t need another distraction.”

Next he handed her a printed page. Compartmentalized memories of previous news articles flooded her consciousness. Never had a similar situation been favorable. There was the Meredith Bank’s article and the information regarding Simon’s death. Tonight’s information wasn’t as dramatic, but the aftershocks could be. Claire’s hands trembled as she took the page from his hand.

“What is this?” she asked.

“It’s a news release. My press secretary released it moments before you arrived to the penthouse.” Smiling he added, “I just saw a text from Shelly; it’s already viral.”

Her stomach twisted, hearing the same word Meredith used regarding him. Move, countermove, the game continued. Claire focused on the page before her.

 Associated Press May 24, 2013

Mr. Anthony Rawlings, CEO of Rawlings Industries, asks the public for patience at this difficult time. He believes two years ago he and the world were deceived. Despite circumstances and appearances, he is now convinced his ex-wife, Claire Nichols (Rawlings), is innocent regarding her unfortunate accusation of attempted murder.

This realization came to Mr. Rawlings through a series of personal and private encounters with Ms. Nichols. Listening to instinct and following his heart, a combination of resources which have successfully helped to create his global empire, Mr. Rawlings is now certain of Ms. Nichols innocence.

In an effort to correct the wrongful prosecution by the state of Iowa, Mr. Rawlings attempted to reverse the ruling of the judge, to no avail. In a moment of inspiration, Mr. Rawlings personally contacted Governor Bosley and requested Ms. Nichols’ pardon. With the assistance of Jane Allyson, Esquire and the signature of the late Governor Richard Bosley, the innocent Claire Nichols was pardoned and released from prison March 9, 2013.

Mr. Rawlings regrets initially denying connection to her pardon. He also refuses to answer who he believes was responsible for the poisoning which resulted in his near death and lead to the false accusations. He will only respond, “It is a personal issue.”

It has been reported that multiple longtime employees of Mr. Rawlings have been released of their duties.

At the current time, Mr. Rawlings is concentrating on renewing his relationship with Ms. Nichols. He confirms that theirs is a complicated and passionate bond and asks for privacy at this important time of healing.

As she processed the words, Claire’s stomach reeled with thoughts of Harry. Did Tony say this news was already viral? Had Harry seen it? Or was he too preoccupied trying to defuse the problems Tony set into motion at SiJo? With all her heart, Claire wanted to call Harry and explain. That wasn’t an option. Obviously, that’s why Tony took her phone before he handed her the press release.

“Why are you doing this?” Tears threatened to overflow her painted eyes. She couldn’t even pretend to be strong as she placed the page on a nearby table.

“I’ve tried to tell you my feelings for you. I’ve even apologized to you for past behaviors and attempted to explain.” Claire heard his attempted restraint as his tone once again hardened, “And yet, you blatantly flaunt another man at a shared function.”

Perhaps it was the food, but strength was returning, if only enough to respond. “I was not flaunting. We, you and I, are divorced. This,” she picked up the news release, “is false. You didn’t secure my pardon. You had nothing to do with it.”

“And who’s going to refute my claim? Governor Bosley, no, he’s dead. Jane Allyson, I think not.”

“Why Tony? What have you done to Jane?”

Grinning triumphantly, Tony stood and looked down at Claire, “Again, so much credit. I should be honored.”

Claire stood to meet his stance, her words slowed, “Tell me what you’ve done.”

“While I may be able to assume some responsibility, it is quite the opposite of what you suspect. Miss Allyson is currently enjoying the honor of an invitation to one of the most prestigious law firms in Des Moines.” Checking his phone, Tony read a text message. His shoulders relaxed and he continued, “As informative as this conversation is, we can continue it later. It’s almost eight, as you know this gala started at seven. You may remember – I do not like to be late.”

For the first time since she entered the penthouse, Tony evaluated the woman before him. “My, Claire, you do look lovely. I admit I doubted your financial ability to dress as would warrant my companion for the evening. There’s a complete ensemble in the master suite for you, but I like your choice.” Scanning her from head to toe, he stepped toward her and lifted the pearl of her grandmother’s necklace. His eyes shone in triumph as he said, “Yes, after you touch up your make-up, I believe we’ll be ready to attend our reunion gala.” Gently dropping the cream colored pearl, he softly brushed the back of his hand against her cheek. His voice dripped with bogus compassion, “Don’t look so strained, my dear, this is a happy occasion. You wanted our dinner public. Your wish is my command. Besides, you came here to represent SiJo Gaming. I promise this will bring that small company more publicity and positive public relations than would have originally happened.” Taking her small hands in his, he squeezed and said, “This is a win, win.”

Claire squared her shoulders. Her eyes found the fight she’d momentarily loss. Although the emerald green flashed and her voice seemed stronger, she submissively asked, “Where can I get ready?”

As he directed her upstairs, she noticed his demeanor calming. He had her over the proverbial barrel. If she chose to argue or disobey, SiJo would suffer. He’d given her no alternative. That, plus the content of a text message he’d just received, seemed to mellow him. Claire wondered why he could divide his attention between telephones, text messages, and those around him, and she couldn’t. Feeling the prickling sensation of the hairs on the back of her neck, she chose not to voice that question.