When it comes to novel writing, I don't have any control whatsoever when it comes to the story. The antagonist assignment just proved that.
It threw the story in a different direction and all my characters are just sitting there, nodding in agreement. 'Yes, Gaby. That's what happened and we'll go with it. There's nothing you can do to change our minds.'
Perhaps it is better to have them lead you rather than you leading them. You can help along the way, but isn't it fun when your character just takes you by the hand and walks you through their (your) story?
I'll get back to you on that answer because I'm not sure that's how I feel at the moment.