She picked up her fork to begin eating again. “I spoke with Mom after I talked to my siblings. In addition to the farmland, the uncle left other things to us, including a sizeable bank account--something Mr. Perkins conveniently forgot to mention.”
“How did Mr. Perkins great-uncle know about Pratt, Hansen, and Monica?”
“Mom told him. It seems they kept in contact, even after the divorce. Something Mr. Perkins obviously didn’t do. The man was his grandmother’s brother. You would have thought they would have had some kind of relationship, wouldn’t you?”
“You wouldn’t believe how some families drift apart. It’s not that way with the Masters,” Colton said. “We’re a close-knit group like the Bennetts, and because several Masters men have married Bennett women, it’s like a family within a family.”
He then glanced at his watch. “It’s almost ten now. Is there anything we need to go over from yesterday’s meeting to prepare us for today’s?”
“No. I expect the mayor will come up with all kinds of ways to convince us New York would be better for Masters Unlimited than LA. We will listen to what he has to say, show him we’re impressed, but let him know we won’t be making any final decisions until after we’ve visited both cities. It might be a good idea to even let them think there’s a third city under consideration. That should sweeten the perks.”
Colton chuckled. “I like that strategy.” He then studied her features. “Considering how we spent most of last night, you look rather well rested.”
“I feel well rested. When my phone rang around seven, I heard it but didn’t answer it since I didn’t recognize the ring tone. Then I went back to sleep. When it rang again, I was about to get up anyway. Do you know what that means, Colton?”
He smiled. “No, sweetheart, what does that mean?”
“I took advantage of that downtime you were talking about. I didn’t rush out of bed to boot up my laptop, nor did I read text messages. I just laid there, and went back to sleep. It’s a start, right?”
He reached out and took her hand in his once more. “Yes, baby, it’s definitely a start. And I’m certain that one day you’ll reach the finish line. At least that’s part of my plan.”
“Your plan?”
“Yes.”
“Umm, maybe I need to know more about this plan,” she said.
He stood and came around the table to draw her into his arms. “It’s a secret plan that I can’t share with you yet, sweetheart. However, one day I will.”
**
Sherelle disconnected the call. This was the third time she’d tried to reach Eric today, but he hadn’t answered. Obviously, he’d been in meetings all day. She left him a text letting him know she would remain in Boston another week. Hopefully, she would hear from him soon.
She glanced around her hotel room, deciding to order room service tonight instead of going out anywhere. The food here was really good. She was about to pick up the hotel phone to place the call when she heard the ding indicating she’d gotten a text. Picking up her phone, she saw it was from Eric.
Got your message. Been busy. Unexpected trip to India. Might have a new client. Will be here for a couple of weeks. Will call when I can.
She texted him back.
OK. That’s great news about a possible new client.
Placing her phone aside, she hoped this new client would take his mind off of not getting the contract with Masters Unlimited. It was getting harder and harder to avoid discussing it, since he always brought it up. In a way she preferred communicating through text messages. Less conversation that way. But still, she wanted to hear Eric’s voice at some point.
Sherelle wondered if he’d chosen her engagement ring yet. He’d asked if she preferred white or yellow gold a few weeks ago, but hadn’t said anything about it since. Chances were, he wanted to surprise her. She couldn’t wait to start wearing it. Holding out her left hand in front of her, she imagined how it would look on her finger. She’d never worn a ring there before. Trembles of happiness raced through her. It was finally going to happen for her. Soon, she would be an engaged woman.
CHAPTER 13
“It’s good seeing you again, Kelly,” Cobra said, standing, placing a kiss on her cheek, and giving her a hug. He had invited them to join him for dinner at one of the most upscale restaurants in Manhattan, known for its fine dining and luxurious atmosphere. “Wow, woman, you’re even more beautiful than the last time I saw you.”
Kelly grinned. “That was a year and a half ago at Sebrina and Parker’s wedding. And thanks, I appreciate the compliment.”
“It’s the truth.” He then turned to Colton and gave his brother a bear hug. “Good seeing you. Unfortunately, you look the same. Haven’t changed in looks at all.”
“At least you don’t think I’ve aged any,” Colton muttered.
Cobra laughed. “I’m glad to see you guys. Sorry I couldn’t join you the other night. How was Aladdin?”
“Incredible. Even magical, you could say,” Kelly said, smiling over at him.
