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I hate that he can’t go in there, but at least I know I have someone here who’s rooting for me. I follow Jetsam and Flotsam into another conference room where two men stand. When they move, I see John and gasp. He doesn’t even look like the same person I met mere weeks ago. How is that even possible?
He sits in a wheelchair that has an oxygen tank next to him. The skin around his eyes has sunken in and his skin has a greyish color to it.
His kind eyes meet mine. “I promise I’ll rally through for the ceremony.”
I cross the room, going to his side. “John, we don’t even have to go to City Hall. Maybe we can get someone to officiate the wedding at your house.”
He exhales, air hissing through the nasal cannulas. “You are too kind to a dying man.”
I knew he was dying. He’s told me. Clayton’s told me. Heck, Kieran said it was the only reason why he picked him. But seeing just how frail he is makes me so very sad.
“Are you sure you even want to marry me? I’d understand if you didn’t.”
He waves his hand. “I’ll rebound. Just a little bug, that’s all. Besides, you know the clause. I have to be married when I pass, or else my family’s fortune is forfeit.”
I search his gaze before nodding. “Okay.”
Jetsam clears his throat. “Let’s begin with section one.”
* * *
Five long hours later, the prenup is signed.
John takes my hand in his. “I wish you’d reconsider marrying Clayton when I’m gone. It would do my heart good knowing that he’ll have someone to watch over him.”
“I understand, but I think I’m ready to spread my wings and live my own life.” I pause. “For as long as I can remember, I’ve always done things to please others, pushing my own needs and wants aside.”
His gaze searches mine. “You remind me so much of my Alice. Of course, you deserve to be happy. Besides, Clayton is a good boy. I’m sure he’ll find someone he’ll be happy with.”
“So you’re not mad?”
“I’m not.” He sighs. “Now, I should get back home so I can rest.”
“Wait. Can I ask you something?” At his nod, I continue, “What are you dying of? You’ve never said…”
“It’s the darndest thing. Even my physicians can’t tell me. I’ve seen every specialist in the world, and each has their own thoughts. One even suggested that I was being poisoned, which is ridiculous.”
The hairs on the back of my neck stand. Poisoned?
“Why did he think you were being poisoned?”
“In the beginning, my symptoms would come and go. He based his diagnosis on that. I have my own theory. I think I’ve lived long enough on this earth without my Alice and now my soul is ready to leave.”
My chest tightens. “This may sound strange, but I’m glad you’ll be with her soon.”
“Me, too, my girl. Me, too.” He glances over my shoulder. “Clayton, come take this tired old man home.”
My breath hitches as a hand grips my shoulder.
“Ari, so good to see you.”
I look up. “Hello, Mr. Greystoke.”
“How did the meeting go?” He glances at his father. “Get everything sorted out?”
“We did, though Ari and Mr. Van der Zee’s attorneys literally gave me a run for my money.”
“Is that so?”
