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“Could it be he wasn’t reluctant? That he just didn’t want to get your hopes up?”
Theo stopped. There had been something protective about Dan’s refusal. Perhaps that’s all it was. Perhaps she could allow herself to believe that. There was a funny release in her chest, like her heart had been clenched all this time. “Maybe I will meet with her.”
Gus nodded approvingly. “I have some news for you.” He placed his empty beer bottle on the table. “I spoke to the trustees today. They want to know when you are going to recommence your studies.”
Theo swallowed. It was time to pay the piper. “I’m not.”
“Are you sure?”
Theo nodded. “I don’t want to go back.” She looked up at him as a thought occurred. Her voice became hesitant. “Do you want me to go?”
“No. I’ve got kinda used to you.” He sat back. “The trustees, in their wisdom, have made an offer to settle your interest in the trust. If you relinquish any further claims, they will pay you one hundred and twenty thousand dollars…U.S. of course.”
Theo gasped. “What?”
“Don’t looked so shocked. How much do you think law school costs…not to mention your accommodation and living costs in Canberra, plus the option under the trust to do postgrad study? In fact, I think they may be lowballing you—I could probably get them up to one fifty at least.”
Theo was still too stunned to say anything. She’d only wanted to walk away.
“So, should I?” Gus prompted.
“Should you what?”
“Arrange a settlement?”
“Yes, of course. Take it. Run!” She exhaled. “You’ll be able to fix this place up.”
“This is your money, Theo.”
“I know. I want you to have it.”
He shook his head. “That’s sweet of you, mate, but I got my share out of the old man’s trust. This is yours.”
“But—”
“You might need it someday,” he said firmly. “I’ll make arrangements to have it transferred into your account.”
Theo swallowed. It felt weird to suddenly have this kind of money. “Can I at least pay for the locksmith?”
Gus sighed. “Okay, but that’s it. I’ll have you know that urban squalor has become a very popular decorating choice.”
CHAPTER 9
I went to Dan Murdoch’s house in Lawrence today. Just to see if there was anything to see. It’s a nice place but pretty ordinary for a hotshot author. I thought it would be bigger, flashier. See photo.
WKWWK
Wayward Son
Me too. The hedges are weird. Do you think they mean anything? Was he trying to leave us a message?
WKWWK
Patriot Warrior
The hedge is clearly a cry for help.
Space Monkey 2347
