“Is Raven here?”
I glance at the watch on my wrist, seeing I still have thirty minutes before my meeting starts. I know she likes to get here early, but not by this much. Not that I paid attention to how much time had passed since Kelly last came in here.
“There’s an attorney here to see you.”
“What?”
She looks nervous, chewing her bottom lip. “The one that’s been calling you? He says he won’t leave until he gets a word with you.”
“Fuck,” I mutter, scrubbing a hand down my face.
This is not what I need to deal with today. I have too much on my plate. I’ve borrowed from tomorrow’s plate. Hell, even next week’s plate.
Being one of the youngest investment bankers at my company doesn’t leave a lot of free time. My calendar is scheduled down to the minute. Not a lot of room for unannounced meetings.
“What do you want me to tell him?”
I look down at the stack of papers sitting on my desk. I don’t need the interruption right now, but given how persistent he’s been, I doubt he’ll leave until he’s spoken with me.
“Give me five and then send him in.”
“Okay, Mr. Miller.”
She nods before heading out and shutting the door behind her.
Grabbing my tie from the desk, I loop it around my neck and tighten it. Taking a deep breath, I ready myself for whatever this attorney has to say.
Nervous? I don’t get nervous.
I have to be calm, cool, and collected in my line of business. Any sign of weakness, and I’ll be taken advantage of.
A knock sounds on the door. Stuffing my hands in my pockets, I turn to see Kelly leading an older man with glasses and a mustache into my office.
“Kade Miller. How are you?” He walks right over to me and extends a hand, which I shake.
“Good. How can I help you today, Mister…”
“Mr. Simms.” He adjusts his glasses, dropping into the chair across from my desk and popping open his briefcase. “I’m here regarding the will of Mr. Verne Walters.”
“Verne died?”
It’s a gut punch. I was home only a few months ago and popped into the ranch to see him. He looked the same as always. I can still picture him with that old Stetson, cigarette hanging from his mouth. His skin was leathery from working out in the sun.
“I’m sorry. Did no one inform you of his passing?”
“No.” I scrub a hand down my face. “It’s been a busy week and?—”
It’s why my mom has been calling and texting. She told me to call her as soon as I could. I passed it off as her wanting to catch up, but since I’d only just talked to her, I put it off.
“I’m very sorry for your loss, but it’s important I speak with you regarding his will.”
“Right.”
I smooth a hand down my tie, shifting in my seat.
“Have you heard of The Lost Spur ranch?”
“Yes.”
