Evelyn’s eyebrows rose.“I don’t believe so.From what I’m told, it’s just a merger, Daniella.Sorry, Dani.These things happen in business all the time.”
“Maybe, but I need more information before I sign something that will eliminate Frannie B’s legacy.She was an amazing woman, and I’m not signing over her company unless there’s a valid reason.”
Evelyn nodded.“I miss her, too.”
That warmed Dani’s heart.“I hope Frannie B’s Honey would make her proud.”
Evelyn smiled, but her eyes were sad.“I bet it would.She loved seeing women create businesses.Are you happy, Dani?”
Before she could respond, the door on the far side opened, and Jeremy emerged to glare at her over the SUV.“Just sign the damn documents, Daniella.Stop being a selfish brat.This merger has nothing to do with you.You’ve been nothing but an embarrassment to your family for years.It’s not like they’ve asked anything of you before.You shouldn’t have any rights to the company after what you’ve done.Help them out for once in your pathetic life.”
She barely heard the final words over Bibi’s barks, but they cut into her soul.
Her voice shook when she turned to her sister.“If someone would like to give me some answers, email me.Or if you’d like to talk, please call.Until then, goodbye.”
It took some effort, but she kept her hand steady as she unlocked the door.She didn’t hush Bibi, who continued to bark.
She thought maybe Evelyn tried to speak, but the barks drowned out her words.
Dani motioned for Bibi to follow her in, and then she locked the door.
When she slid to the ground, Bibi stopped barking and climbed into her lap, licking her face.
Dani buried her head in her fur and tried to hold back the tears.
Nothing but an embarrassment.Pathetic life.
The tears fell.
Chapter15
A Bee In Your Bonnet
Dani hugged Bibi hard, then pulled herself to her feet.Her legs tingled because her Newfoundland wasn’t the lapdog she thought she was.
She shook herself and walked to the counter where she’d left her phone.She wanted Lawson, but she’d satisfy herself with a text.
Which made her realize she’d missed one of his.Instead of texting back, she called.
“Dani.You okay?”
“I’m fine.Sorry I missed your text.”
There was a hesitation.“You’ve been crying.I’m at the apiaries.I’ll be there in a minute.Do I need backup?”
Her eyes misted again.“No.It’s fine.”
“See you soon.”
When he knocked on the door, Bibi’s tail wagged before he called out.“I’m here, Dani.”
She unlocked the door and opened it.The driveway was empty.Lawson slammed the door behind him and locked it while his eyes remained on hers.Without a word, he pulled her into his arms and just held her.
Her body shook, but it was okay.Lawson would understand.
When her shudders slowed, he lifted her gently into his arms and moved to the couch.He settled into a corner with her on his lap.Bibi leaped up and rested her head on Dani’s legs.
The scenario made her smile.“Thanks.This is exactly what I needed.”
