It is December of 2007 just outside Antwerp, Belgium, when Richard Van Pelt storms out of the dining room of his fathers residence. Time is running out for their familys copper-tubing company. Withthe Chinese nipping at their heels and the Brazilians not far behind,Optitube is doomed if the family does not take action soon. With a willing Japanese partner waiting in the wings, it seems everything is in line for a successful merger of two companies. Unfortunately, noteveryone agrees.

In Japan, the young and beautiful Natsumi Honma anxiously awaits thejoint venture between her fathers company and Optitube. She has notonly a fi nancial interest in the merger, but also a growing love interest inRichard. As the two continue to develop a passionate relationship acrossthe ocean, jealousy, greed, and ambition drive a wedge between familymembers and instigate the creation of multiple plots that soon threatenboth Richards and Natsumis lives.

In this intriguing tale fueled by age-old confl icts and cruel ambition, amerger hangs in the balance as Natsumi suddenly goes missing. Now itis up to Richard to save both her and his companybefore it is too late.