Page 131 of Finding Redemption

“Please stay. I came for the best in the business, that includes you.”

Her brows furrow. “Okay. What’s up?” We find seats across from One and get to the point.

“I need a house. I’ll understand if you choose not to do it, but I want the best, so I came for you.”

One glances to his sister. “Why wouldn’t you come here?”

“Exactly what I said.” Riley claps me on the back. “You built our home and now, he’s gettin’ hitched and needs a home.”

“Congratulations.” One stands, leaning over the desk to shake my hand. He’s a damn good man.

I take his hand proudly. “Thank you.” I glance at Riley with a smile. “It’s not happening before summer, so I was thinking once the ground thaws, we could start clearing the land.”

“Yes, of course,” he says, opening his computer. “Below Riley’s place?”

“Yeah, on the other end. I want to make sure we have enough space between us.”

“I don’t know what you mean. Mom and Dad have never caught us.” I round on Riley with my brows in my hairline. “What? It’s true.”

“Wow.” I shake my head in dismay, planning to kick his ass later. “I was thinking more along the lines of room to grow but all right.”

One chuckles with Thayer. “Little brothers are assholes, man.”

“Brothers, period,” Thayer says smugly.

“What’s your budget? Do you have an idea of what you’re wanting?” One gets down to business, the way I like to do things.

“We haven’t decided on any plans. I was waiting to surprise her. I wanted to make sure who was building it.” I nod at One.

“Budget?” One glances up at me.

“Hell, four million. Too little?” Riley punches my arm.

“You know, you’re a smartass.” I glare at him, turning back to One. “Three to four… million.”

Riley cackles at my response. “I told you so. He squirrels money away like Lea. No one has no idea how much they’re worth.” Riley flips me off while still laughing.

“Why are you flipping me off? How did I offend you?” I’m gonna kill Riley.

“Hadlea is ridiculous. I offered to do repairs to her home when she first came here. She could buy and sell my ass. She acted as if it was no big deal.” One shakes his head, laughing.

“Reese doesn’t care. I don’t hide it though. I just don’t talk about it. I have bigger plans in the future for us.”

“Good to hear. Now, this house. We can get you scheduled and break ground in a few weeks.” One studies his computer.

“I’m ready to put some money down and grab some plans.” I take my checkbook out, writing as we continue to talk.

“Thayer, would you mind getting some books for Walker?” Thayer nods, standing to gather materials. I hand One the check.

“I’ll draw up a contract and we’ll get to work.” One stands, offering his hand again. I happily take it.

“Sounds good. Thank you again.” I turn to Thayer. “Thank you. I hope you don’t mind doing our landscaping.”

“Not at all. I’m happy for you. I told you that already.” She tiptoes, hugging me as Hardy strolls through the door.

“What the fuck is it about you Pennington men and the women in this damn town?” He rolls his eyes, laughing.

“Hello?” Riley waves his hand up and down his body, then plays game show hostess with me. “I mean, dude. With my good looks and his damn wallet, that shit’s explained.”