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His words are a hit to my heart, and I hate that he’s at the age where he has to think of such things. “If anyone could live forever, it’d be you.”
He chuckles, but then his face turns wistful. “As it so happens, your grandmother and I rekindled our romance over these past few years.”
“You did?” I smile ear to hear. “I’m so glad to hear that. And I can’t believe she kept it a secret.”
“She kept things close to the chest, that one. That aside, it also so happens I’m quite fond of you. You’re a good lass. And you’re doing mighty things for the world. I’m damn proud. With that, there’s a wee bit of property I wish to leave you in my will.” He shrugs. “Actually, it won’t be in my will. I’m going to pass ownership to you now because I want you to have it before I croak.”
My heart jumps into my throat, and I say, “I’m at a loss for words. That’s so kind, but you don’t have to do anything for me.”
“I know I don’t, and that’s why I want to do it. I know it’ll be in good, kind hands. I’m sure you’ll go on to do wonderful things with it because you’ve proven that’s what you do. I believe in you, just as Winifred did.”
“That means the world to me. Thank you.” I swallow back something in my throat. I know I haven’t known Mac that long, but it feels like years.
“So, Duncan is going to be bringing over some paperwork. Quite a lot of paperwork, in truth. It’s the deeds for the land along the coastline of Whistleburg. And the downtown area, too.”
I obviously didn’t hear him right. “What are you talking about?”
He shrugs. “I said a wee amount, but it’s a great deal of land, Riley.”
“But I thought you were a poor farmer’s boy.”
“Well, I was. But that was sixty years ago now. I took every penny I earned and bought land. It cost nothing in the fifties. Then, in her final years, Winifred gave me even more money to buy the land of Whistleburg. I promised her I’d leave it to you.”
“Allthe land along the coastline? And all the land downtown?”
“Yes. I’m not a poor farmer’s boy anymore. I’m a billionaire. And now, so are you.”
I’m still frozen in shock about everything that just happened with Mac when we roll up to the Peacock Theater. Skye steps out of our limo wearing a dress made of baby pink feathers and approaches the red carpet as if she owns the place.
I let out a laugh because Skye is just so unapologetically Skye. And Billy takes her hand, so proud of his partner, or twin flame, or whatever she is, and they make me smile. That’s relationship goals, right there.
Even better, when Mac steps out, Skye loops her arm around his and ushers him along. I still can’t imagine everything he’s planning to leave me. I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to wrap my head around it.
I’m floating on the perfect California evening air as I walk the red carpet with theUrban Dawncast and crew—and man, does it feel good to be back. I love being able to showcase my amazing gown created by Sophie.
Photogs are moving, snapping, and flashing, and entertainment reporters are approaching us to ask questions, all related toUrban Dawn, which is refreshing. No questions about Rilox.
Fans, mostly women, some only girls, call my name and wave. I go to them and take their hands, person after person. It fills me and encourages me, and I vow to do everything in my power to stand up for them and myself.
When I see Maddox, my heart immediately picks up speed before splintering into pieces. I know he’s sorry and wants to talk, but after what happened, who knows what he’ll actually want. There’s still the no-kids thing, and that’s a deal breaker. I just have to do what I’ve prepared for and suck it up. He’s so handsome it’s actually irritating. What that gorgeous turquoise bow tie and cummerbund does to his eyes, and that black velvet suit.
I say, “Hi, Maddox,” with a bright smile and a wave. I’m so happy to see him, if nothing else, because we’re friends. Which is a relief because it has to be clear to the public that we’re more than okay. They need that for Agents Sullivan and Bryce. And personally, the last thing I want is any more lies told about us.
After some pictures together and the madness on the red carpet is over,Urban Dawn’scast and crew head into the theater, but Maddox doesn’t follow as he scans the crowd.
I squeeze his hand. “You ready?”
He doesn’t answer as his eyes continue roaming the scene.
Oh, God—he’s looking for his mom.
I say, “Let’s give her a few more minutes, okay? We have time, and traffic getting here is horrible.”
He nods.
We move around, chatting and making ourselves look busy until the crowd dissipates. “We should head inside.” A ragged edge creeps into Maddox’s voice.
When I meet his eyes, they’re splintered shards of cobalt. He starts to leave, and I catch his wrist. “Hey. I’m sorry.”
