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It’s similar to what I told him at Toby’s wedding. Somehow, my words impacted him even when it seemed they didn’t.
Confusion and surprise fill me, making me still like a statue. Why isn’t Hudson here to witness this? I bet two million dollars he won’t believe me when I tell him.
My dad looks at me with regret.
“I’m sorry, son. That money should’ve been yours without conditions. Consider one million of that donation a personal one from me. Your other half of the trust fund will be transferred to you personally.”
My mom’s face morphs into shock and anger. It’s becoming clear who was calling the shots this whole time.
“Does this come with any stipulations? Like I have to have dinner with you or work for the family business? I won’t accept it with any conditions.” I cross my arms and ensure he truly means it.
“No conditions. It’s yours to do with what you like,” he says. “Although . . .” he pauses, tugging his shirt sleeve. “If you’d like to have dinner, rebuild our relationship, I’d be happy to, but it’s not required, and I’ll understand if you don’t want to.” Sadness fills his words.
I don’t know if I ever witnessed this level of regret in him before.
I nod wordlessly. “I’ll have to think about it.”
“Of course. Take your time. If you want to go to the bank to get it all squared away tomorrow, I’ll clear my schedule.”
Who is this man, and what has he done with my father?
“Thank you.”
I look at my mom and shake my head. I guess one parent snapping out of their pretentious attitude is more than I’d expect in a lifetime. Two would be a miracle.
“I’ll call the bank and let you know.”
I walk out the door without another word and instantly grab my phone.
“Hudson, please tell me you’re free. You’ll never believe what just happened.”
“What’s going on?”
“Do you have any appointments now? I’m heading to your office.”
It’s time to start house hunting.
After leaving Hudson speechless and telling him I’d like to look for a house in Hartville, I get to the bank right before they close. Squaring away some details and making an appointment for the next day, I pick up Sage from work.
“We’re going to dinner.” I smile.
“We are?” Her eyebrows lift. “Did you ask me if I wanted to?” I love her sass.
“You can’t deny you want to have dinner with me,” I say.
“So confident.” She lets out a throaty laugh that heats my body.
I love this woman more than I ever thought possible. She’s everything I need in life. Hopefully, soon, we’ll be sharing a lot more. I have no doubt that she’s my forever.
Hudson confessed earlier today that he’s planning on proposing to Lex. It doesn’t surprise me one bit. What is surprising is that he’s waited this long. They may have been dating for less than a year, but they have a history that can’t be completely thrown away.
“Where did you run off to after lunch?” She looks over at me. “I thought you’d be back sooner.”
“Funny story . . .” I pin her against the passenger door of my car.
Sage looks up at me with wide eyes and parted lips. As much as I want to kiss her, I need to tell her what happened.
“I went to see my parents. I couldn’t let it rest,” I confess.
