@kronix
Just one more chapter; indeed, more plot development, more forward movement of story, more... action... than many that run much longer.
He's a manipulative bastard, all right.
Based upon her reactions, there are other things he appears to be good at manipulating.
After all of his unilateral renegotiating... I do hope he has enough integrity to have his father fulfill their part of the bargain.
If nothing else he needs to realize that even in a dog eat dog world, if you get a reputation for welching on deals people will stop dealing with you even if it appears they have no choice, as they won't expect you to actually do as you said you would.