Aria sighed. For someone who remained locked up for most of her life, she now had the liberty to come and go as she pleased. Her final decision rested with Prisha. The destination her daughter chose as home, would be their permanent residence. “Thank you, Uncle Buck. I’ll think about it.”
“Think about the location of your home, right? Not about whether you’re taking the mill or not?” he scolded. Aria laughed. What a pushy old man, yet she loved his sprightliness.
“Yes.”
“Good.” He smacked his hand across his thigh. “Now, onto the finances—”
“What finances?” Aria gawked as Reece sat forward in his seat.
“I’ve drawn up a Will, sweetheart. When I die, everything goes to you.”
“What?” Aria’s jaw dropped as Buck reached for his drink again.Had the old man gone completely insane?“You can’t do that.”
“It’s my money. I’ll do whatever I please.” He chugged down a long sip. Aria swapped a shocked gaze with Reece.
“He’s right, babe. It’s his money.”
“Damn right it is.” Buck set his glass back on the tray and sat back. “Sweetheart, people have called me all sorts of names in my life. No one has bestowed me with the affection you and your lovely daughter have. My nephews will get their portion as I see fit.” He winked at Reece who laughed with a shake his head. “The rest, however, will go to you and your daughter. Reece bears witness to what I say today. Perchance you two marry, then it remains in the Bentley family.” Buck finished with another naughty wink.
If someone asked Aria what she desired most in her life right now, her answer would be simple. Nothing. The blessings she received over the last month was unexpected. Up until recently, she thought love and a secure safe future belonged in fairytales. She finally accepted hope existed.
Epilogue
Applying the last evenstroke, Aria stepped back and eyed her handiwork. Happy, she smiled.
“You missed a spot,” Reece’s whisper brushed over her ear as he came up behind her.
“Where?” She searched the painted wall for the missing spot.
“Here.” Reece’s hands slipped around her waist as he kissed her neck.
“Reece,” she scolded with a laugh and tilted her head to stop the sexy kisses. “What are you doing?”
Ignoring her, he gripped the spaghetti strap of her camisole with his teeth and nudged it over her shoulder. Slowly, he circled the tip of his tongue over the bare spot. His hand beneath the edge of her skirt, he skimmed her panty and stroked the shaven mound, while his other hand cupped her breast. She groaned. He flicked a finger over the nipple. The tight bud sprung to attention.
“Reece, you have to stop,” her weak words had no impact. She arched into him and rubbed her bottom against his growing erection with another soft moan.
