I leave Callum Fraser a lifetime right of residence within the castle, subject to legal review, along with a trust sufficient for his maintenance.
A leash.
Permission to stay, not ownership.
Alisa’s mouth tightens.“That complicates matters.”
“It ensures Mr.Fraser isn’t displaced,” Bell replies.
Isla’s eyes flicker, surprise, irritation, something else she quickly smothers.“So I can’t sell.”
“Not immediately,” Bell says.“The will mandates a review period.”
“How long?”Isla demands.
“Ninety days minimum.”
The silence that follows is heavy and electric.
Callum feels something cold settle into his bones.
They’re trapped.
Together.
“That’s unacceptable,” Isla snaps.
“It’s binding,” Bell replies calmly.
Alisa stiffens.“We have obligations.”
“You’ll have to manage them,” Bell says.“Miss MacLaren must remain on the premises during the review.For ninety days, she cannot leave.”
Isla turns sharply toward Callum.“You planned this.”
He lets out a harsh laugh.“You think I wanted this?”
“You’re benefiting.”
“No,” he says.“I’m surviving.”
Bell closes the folder.“I’ll return tomorrow with the next steps.I advise restraint.”
Restraint.
The solicitor leaves.
The door closes behind him with a sound that feels final.
Silence floods the room.
Isla pushes back her chair.“I’m selling this place the moment I legally can.”
Callum stands too.“Not without a fight.”
Her lips curve, sharp and defiant.“Good.”
The challenge hangs between them.
