Page 7 of Cherished Lands
I followed her into the office. The scent of lavender and old books wrapped around me as I took a seat at the desk. She settled into her chair opposite and looked at me expectantly.
"So, what brings you in? We don't normally work with Vintage Point."
My mouth was dry and my palms were clammy. I shook my head and tried for a relaxed smile. "No, no. I know. This is about something different."
"Okay..." Natalie leaned back in her chair.
I took a deep breath. The words I'd rehearsed a dozen times in my head suddenly felt heavy on my tongue. "I'd like to talk to you about investing my trust fund into a business of my own."
Natalie's eyebrows shot up. "You mean, branching out from your parents' business?"
"Yes," I confirmed, immediately wincing when I heard the curt tone in my voice.
I was aware of how I came across. Half the town was afraid of me, and the other half was afraid of my parents. I swallowed hard, pushing down the lump in my throat.
"My parents and I don't see eye to eye on much," I said, my voice growing stronger. "I was hoping that you might be able to help. I'd like to build something on my own. Something I can be proud of. Something they can't touch."
"That's... wow." Natalie blinked, opening and closing her mouth a few times, like she was groping for the right words.
"So, what do you think?" I asked, leaning forward slightly.
She worried her bottom lip. "I, um, I do have a client who is looking for an investor. I actually think the endeavor would be perfect, given your skill set."
My heart skipped a beat. "Oh?"
She hesitated, and I could practically see the wheels turning in her head.
"Well, what is it?" I blurted out, unable to take the suspense any longer.
Natalie took a deep breath. "My client would like to open a cidery in Sable Point. They have the land and the raw materials covered. They need an investor and connections in the industry."
Excitement bubbled in my chest. This fit my experience so well, it was almost too good to be true.
But Natalie wasn't finished. "However, the client is extremely concerned about the fallout from Vintage Point and your family. I'm a little concerned that your involvement would put a bigger target on their backs."
"Let me deal with my parents," I said, resolve settling into the marrow of my bones.
Natalie nodded, seemingly satisfied. "I can set up a meeting. They're eager to move quickly. Can you meet tomorrow?"
"Absolutely. Just name the time and place."
"Let's meet here at two. I think we'll need the privacy."
"Okay, perfect. Thank you so much, Natalie. Truly."
She offered me a hesitant smile. "Be prepared for an uphillbattle, Tessa. I'd love for this to work out, but it's going to be complicated."
"I can handle complicated."
"Good," she said, rising from her chair. "In the meantime, if you can send me over the details of your trust fund, that will help me get started on the investment proposal."
I followed suit, standing and meeting Natalie near the door. "Of course. I'll send it over right away."
"I'll see you tomorrow, Tessa."
"See you tomorrow," I said with a grin. "Thanks again."
I left the Choi Accounting office and climbed into my SUV. Excitement and trepidation swirled in my stomach. This could be my chance to break free, to prove myself. But I knew the road ahead wouldn't be easy.
