He finally discloses, "Ruby and I decided that plot of land is yours. It's in the family trust. It sits on ten acres, and ironically, Willow's ten acres butt up to it. You can turn the dirt track into a private entrance for your students. The only stipulation I have is that you keep one of the cabin's existing walls and the fireplace if you decide to rebuild. If you don't want to put your house on that spot, then you'll have to restore it as a guesthouse. If you don't, Ruby will string me up next to you when the bulldozers arrive."
I gape at him.
I heard that wrong.
With a smirk, which is a rare thing for him, he waits for me to speak.
I sit taller. "Sorry, sir, but I'm not sure I understand."
"What isn't clear?" he prods.
I blurt out, "Did you just say you put those ten acres in my name?"
"Yes."
Shock and vulnerability have me worrying I might tear up. I shake my head, stammering, "I-I— What?"
Jacob's expression softens. "You got shafted by your blood kin, son. And Ruby and I have always considered you as one of our own. So you've been in the trust since you were twelve."
My mouth drops toward the floor.
He chuckles. "Don't think I've ever seen you look so shocked."
I close my mouth, staring at him, blinking hard, and trying to process everything. My eyes want to betray me, so I look away for a moment, taking deep breaths.
How is this possible?
He continues, "If you prefer to buy the other plot of land you mentioned, that's okay too. The trust always owns the land so that no one can squander it away. You're not the only Cartwright to get in too deep when gambling."
I swallow a lump in my throat and then turn back toward him. Shame still weighs heavy on my heart, but I inquire, "I'm not?"
"No. So, the ten acres are yours to do with as you please. However, every acre will remain in the family; the trust stipulates that it'll pass to your future heirs. If you have none, then it'll go to another one of my grandchildren. Just don't forget about the wall and fireplace. I prefer we both keep our balls." His eyes twinkle.
My laugh comes out choppy.
Willow.
I lift my chin. "Sir, does this mean I have your blessing to marry Willow?"
His eyes narrow again.
Is he going to say no?
I swallow the bile creeping up my throat.
He leans closer. "Willow's her own woman. She'll have to make that decision. But as long as it's what she wants, then yes. You have both Ruby's and my blessing."
Giddiness fills me. I blink hard. "Thank you, sir. I'll take good care of her."
"I'm counting on it. And I'm happy to hear about the changes you've made, Wyatt. Don't stop moving forward."
"I won't, sir."
His eyes flicker with mischief. "I assume you bought a ring?"
"Yes, sir."
He holds his hand out.
