The rest of us file out after Grace, including Preston.
There is no stopping us as we march down the hall. The reporter spots us immediately and beams.
“Oh, I get the entire family for this. What a wonderful surprise.”
The fury on Henry’s face is one I will find joy in for the rest of my life.
“I’m Grace,” my sister introduces herself again. “We met the other morning.”
“I’m Gavin.” Gavin shakes his hand, too.
“Dutton,” I also repeat, sitting down before everyone else.
“And I’m Preston King. Close family friend.”
“Very close,” Henry says, grinning.
I almost laugh.
“Are those the papers?” Henry points to Preston’s hands.
“Yes, sir.”
He hands them over as if he were handing over something as simple as a piece of gum. As if that act isn’t about to change the future of everyone sitting in this area.
“They marked where your signature is needed. Here’s a pen. Once you’re done, the ownership is officially transferred.”
Henry grins, holding his head high as he takes the pen. He flips the folder open and starts to sign.
“Take a photo, Terrance. This is a big event for us.”
Holy shit. He didn’t even look at the first page.
Either he trusts Person with his whole heart or he's an idiot. I’m going with the latter.
Page after page he signs his name, and the reporter claps his hands while his crew gets photos.
“I feel like I’m watching history happen.”
“It’s something.” Gavin gives me awhat the fucklook.
Henry signs the last page and then slides the folder forward.
“I’ll just take that real quick and keep it,” Preston says, grabbing the folder as if it were about to catch fire in Henry’s hand.
Yeah, buddy, hold on to that one real tight.
Shit is about to hit the fan.
“Mr. Marshall”—Henry beams at him—“you can ask me all the questions you’d like, but please, allow me to introduce you to the new owner of Lovers Lodge.” He gestures to Preston, but Grace stands and holds her hand out again.
“It’s so lovely to meet you.”
Terrance is clearly in shock, but no one is more shocked than Henry Richford.
“No, no.” He even laughs. “The new owner is?—”
“Grace Richford.” Preston smiles and opens the folder. “Yep, right here. Grace Violet Richford.”
