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Margaret returned her attention to the will. “In her original will, she’d bequeathed her entire library to Oxford University, but that’s changed.Except for the primary source historical documents, she’s leaving the decision entirely up to you.”
“Why would she do that?”
Margaret read from the will again, “I’m leaving this decision in the hands of Dr. Papadakis. She will determine which books to donate to Oxford and which books to keep for another purpose.”
Cassie stared at Margaret. She had no idea what Beatrice meant byanother purpose.She didn’t have the means to store rare books.
“What about your cousin? Won’t he dispute this amendment?”
Margaret shook her head. “The family has been informed of the change. To be honest with you, they were surprised, but they’re not disputing Beatrice’s wishes.” She gave her a sincere smile. “My aunt has been exceedingly generous with her family. I think Alistair is far more interested in moving into this townhouse he inherited than a farmhouse on Crete.”
“I see.” Cassie’s heart pounded in overdrive. She’d never assumed Beatrice would leave her anything, much less her beloved Meraki estate.
“It will take a few months to finish probate and transfer final ownership of the property. In the meantime, if you want to go to Meraki, send me an email or a text to let me know you’ll be there.” Margaret handed her the key and a card with her contact information.
“You’re giving me the key now? Don’t I have to wait until probate is over?”
“I’m the trustee, so it’s my prerogative,” she said with a wink. “It will be yours in a few months anyway. Why not have access now? You might want to visit and begin to plan for any changes you wish to make.”
Cassie sat still. The realization of owning Meraki started to sink in. Meraki was the most beautiful place she’d ever visited. And now it was hers.
“Oh. Okay. I appreciate it.”
She flipped the pages back in place and handed the will to Cassie. “I’m leaving you the paperwork to sign. If you have any questions, feel free to call the estate solicitor’s office or utilize your lawyer if you prefer.”
“I’ll have my father’s attorney in New York look it over.”
“Well, then. I think that’s it.” Margaret got to her feet and picked up her portfolio. “Oh. I almost forgot. Can I ask you a favor?”
Cassie stood. “Of course.”
“I’ve already spoken to Mrs. Mackay, but I was hoping you’d help us put together a current inventory for the appraisers. This will give you time to go through the books in her library.”
“I see.” How was she going to fit in her job and the possibility of seeing Leo?
“It will probably take a couple of weeks. I understand you’re working with Michael Burke now, so hopefully you could lend a hand in the evenings and weekends. Can you help us?”
Disappointment dropped like a stone in her stomach. She’d just been given a large property, and she felt ungrateful because there wouldn’t be enough time to see Leo. Then again, he wanted her to take some time to think about them, so Margaret’s request might be the time out she needed.
“Of course,” Cassie said with a firm nod. “I’m happy to help.”
Before she left, Margaret turned to her. “My aunt admired you very much, Cassie. You’re now included in a small group of people who knew her better than all her colleagues and students at Oxford.”
“Thank you. It’s been my honor to be her friend.”
“I’ll see you soon.” With a final nod, Margaret left.
Cassie closed the door and let out a huge breath. She returned to the drawing room and poured herself a glass of brandy. She studied Beatrice’s portrait. “I sure wish you could tell me why you made this decision.” She lifted her glass, imagining what she would say to Beatrice if she were here. “Thank you, my dear friend. I promise to do everything I can to make you proud.”
