“You said she’s not alive.” He leaned forward. “Did I mishear you?”
“Yes, you did. What I said was that she’s…” I shook my head. “I can have that to you with a bit more time, I’m sure.”
“Sounds great.” He smiled. “I’m off after today for the holidays, and I’m sure you have huge holiday plans, so mypartner Kyle will give you a call about verifying the marriage license by the end of the week, if that’s alright.”
“Perfect.”
“I’m sure we have nothing to worry about with a man of your stature, but—” He paused. “Given the amount of money at stake, we’ll have to do our due diligence at every turn, no matter what it takes to make sure your father’s wishes are being met.”
“That’s exactly what I want, too.” I seethed behind my smile, escorting him to the door.
The moment I was certain he and his delusional team were locked away on the elevator, I looked at Jenna.
“This is the part where you give me a solution, Miss Dawson.”
She gave me a blank stare.
“Say something, anything.”
“I don’t think you’re getting that inheritance anytime soon.”
“Something helpful.”
“Your tie is crooked.”
“Funny.” I held back a groan. “How tight is that clause they mentioned?”
“Ironclad.”
“Not a single loophole?”
“Not unless you’re widowed.”
“Do you know any women who’ve died recently?” I asked. “I can get someone to backdate a marriage license.”
She shut her briefcase and pushed her chair up to the table. “I’m going to go get lunch.”
“No, wait.” I was determined to beat this nonsense a different way. “Call me the top notary in the city and have him here within the hour.”
4
NICHOLAS
An Hour Later
“For the umpteenth time, Mr. Saint, I’m not committing a felony for you…” The notary shook his head.
“How the hell is what I’m asking for a felony?” I asked.
“Because you’re requesting that I lie on a federal document,” he said. “Not only that, but you’re asking me to make up an entire human being who doesn’t exist.”
“It’s a bullshit marriage license.” I waved a hand. “No one checks into these things.”
“You don’t think Nicholas Saint—i.e., the wealthiest man in this state—getting married to a ‘Jane Ashley Smith’ will draw intrigue from anyone?”
“Not anyone who matters.”
“What about thirsty reporters who are constantly tracking everything you do?”
