Chapter 13 - THE TRUTH ABOUT MIDNIGHT
The truth about the midnight deadline emerged during the trust litigation.
Julian had misunderstood the emergency-control clause.
His aunt's representatives had encouraged that misunderstanding.
They wanted him to panic.
Make a reckless decision.
And create a legal dispute that would delay access to the records.
The supposed marriage requirement had been a trap.
A carefully constructed pressure campaign.
Julian stared at the documents.
Then laughed bitterly.
“I nearly married a stranger.”
I smiled faintly.
“You did ask.”
He looked at me.
“And you said no.”
I nodded.
“Yes.”
He studied me.
Then smiled.
“Best decision you ever made.”
I laughed.
“Probably.”
He took my hand.
Then whispered:
“Because now, if I ask you again, I want it to be for the right reason.”
My heart raced.
I looked at him.
“Julian.”
He smiled.
“Not tonight.”
I laughed.
“Good.”
May you like
He kissed my forehead.
“Someday.”
