My eyes glazed over as I read the details. I signed it and gave it to Uncle Vincent so he could add his signature at the bottom. Paul gave us more paperwork to sign. "Why so many?" I asked.
"We have to follow the Corporate Transparency Act and update the ownership in the database. It's to prevent money laundering," Paul explained. A callous formed on my index finger as I signed and initialled more documents.
The final paperwork was a transfer of all business and personal accounts managed in trust by Uncle Vincent. I nearly passed out from the balance in the personal account. "Uncle Vincent, you should have that money. You ran the company until we located that painting," I argued.
"I can't do that," Uncle Vincent said. "The money is your profit shares since I took over the company. I was holding it in trust for you."
"But I didn't earn it," I sighed. Paul watched in amusement as I tried to give away my inheritance. "All I wanted was the painting."
Uncle Vincent chuckled. "I know, sweetie, but my dad knew what he was doing when he left everything to you," he said. "We have college funds set aside for Valerie's children. The accountant will send the money to the college or university of their choosing. Once you have children, the accountant will set funds aside for them."
I nodded despite not wanting children. An image of a sandy-blond boy with blue eyes and a brown-haired girl resembling me popped into my head, making me gasp. I could see them. The boy has his father's crooked, mischievous smile. My heart ached to hold him in my arms. "Alexander and Michelle," I whispered.
"Steph?" Uncle Vincent asked while Paul smiled and recorded the names in his documents.
"Huh? Oh. I'm sorry. I was daydreaming," I replied, smiling. I shook my head, and we continued our business of changing ownership of Plum Technical Engineering Services. My grandfather's company does more than offer technical support to Rangeman. I was shocked Ranger used them to collaborate with the engineers who retrofitted the Rangeman buildings in Boston and Trenton. He once mentioned getting everything set up in Miami, his first branch, was painstakingly slow. Opening Rangeman Trenton was simpler because PTES oversaw the engineers Rangeman hired for the job, which gave Ranger and his men more time to earn revenue for expansion. I never knew he hired PTES, my inherited company, for the job.
Never in my life would I have expected to become a multi-millionaire overnight. Plum Technical Engineering Services was a thriving business, and it was all mine. I have more money than Ranger. The realization hit me like running into a brick wall. "Paul, I recently signed a contract with Rangeman to work on their searches, background checks and the occasional bounty hunting. Would owning PTES conflict with my responsibilities?"
"Are you working in their technical department?" Paul asked.
"No, strictly searches, BGCs and fugitive apprehension," I replied.
"It shouldn't be a problem. Those responsibilities don't overlap with the information technology portion of your company. However, it would be best to mention it to the Rangeman executives," Paul advised. In other words, I had to inform Ranger, Tank, Lester and Bobby. I wasn't ready to share my news.
"I'll handle that after my vacation," I promised. For now, I wanted to live in Denial Land.
"Have you decided on the CEO?" Paul asked expectantly.
I looked at Uncle Vincent. "Would you be interested in maintaining your position?" I asked, hoping he would say yes. I had a lot to learn about running the company and its responsibilities to its clients. It wasn't a process we could rush.
"Only until you learn the ins and outs of the business," Uncle Vincent replied. "Once you're up to speed, I could retire."
"Or share the CEO position with me," I suggested.
"I'm sure we can establish a mutual agreement when the time arises," he said. I suspected he liked the shared CEO concept. Perhaps we could split them according to engineering and information technology, where I would manage the IT and he would oversee the engineering. Uncle Vincent was an engineer by trade, so having him work with other men in the industry made sense.
We completed the transfers without inviting Hal. I don't want him to know about my inheritance or the balance of my newest bank account. After reviewing the contracts and other paperwork, I realized that PTES doesn't have to expand in the different states. We consult in other major cities. The reason for its success was Uncle Vincent and his management team. I was afraid of upsetting the delicate balance by inserting myself into the daily operations.
"Stephanie, your father sat on the board to assist with the IT portion of the business. He recommended a new company, Rangeman, for offering services in exchange for property security and visual monitoring," Vincent explained.
"I thought Hector was the IT guru at Rangeman," I stated.
Smiling, Vincent said, "Hector is a hacker. There isn't a system he can't break. I know Hector monitors the web for details about Ranger to scrub the data from public access. PTES updates the systems, repairs fractured programs and retrieves data with Hector overseeing the process. We don't remotely access computers. One of our technicians visits the companies to repair the systems."
My perception of Hector's job within Rangeman was incorrect. His team installed the security cameras, and I assumed Hector had a hand in writing the code for their research programs. "Oh. I didn't know," I replied. It does make sense -changes to how the programs worked involved consultations. I never realized Ranger would contact PTES for assistance.
"Your father and I will teach you everything you need to know for your department," Uncle Vincent promised.
We spent time reviewing the contracts expiring within the following few months. Uncle Vincent explained we had to tender proposals to our customers. Most of the terms remained the same, but there was a two to three percent fee increase. It seemed reasonable, considering PTES employees deserved compensation for their hard work.
After another thirty minutes, Uncle Vincent announced, "I'll work on the IT proposals and email them to you for review. I know you're technically on vacation, but I need your assistance."
"Sure. I can handle that," I replied. Uncle Vincent handed me a laptop bag.
"Use that laptop for all PTES work. Your father will send you a temporary password to access the system."
"And change it as soon as possible," I muttered. I understood the assignment. Paul and Uncle Vincent took that moment to stand. It was time to leave. "All of this is because I wanted the painting everyone else thought was ugly. Uncle Vincent, why did you wait until we found that painting before telling me about PTES?"
Paul replied, "To prove you are the rightful heir to the estate. Your uncles and cousins were laying claims on the company and demanded its sale and division of funds. We had until your thirty-fifth birthday to find the painting."
"But Catherine could have contacted my dad," I argued.
"She called the house a few times," Paul answered. "Your mother answered." I held up my hand to stop him from talking. Paul doesn't need to explain.
"Let me guess, Catherine asked to speak to me; my mom said I didn't live there and refused to give her my phone number or say I lived in town," I stated. "It wouldn't have been the first time my mom gave a stranger my address or phone number. Why was that time different?"
I knew the answer before Paul replied, "It wasn't a man asking for your contact information. I contacted Catherine Bishop about the painting."
"Oh? What did she have to say?"
"Everything your father assumed about our mother tossing the painting was true. Catherine's father retrieved it from the trash. It was fortunate he caught Mom throwing it out. That painting was the only proof of your inheritance," Paul replied.
"But I don't understand why my grandpa didn't state those details in his will. Wouldn't that have been a better option?" I argued.
Uncle Vincent explained, "My dad didn't want your mother to get her hands on the company or money. It was no secret that my parents never approved of Helen. She was all about appearances." That I knew was true.
Paul helped me draft my will. I planned to give my inheritance to Mary Alice with Dad overseeing the company until she turned twenty-five unless I had a child, and I would change my will at that time. We had time, but I wanted to ensure it was protected until then. "This will have to do," I said while signing the paperwork. Uncle Vincent understood he would remain as CEO in the event of my sudden death.
"One more," Paul announced. "But it's your gun permit for Montana."
"Oh. I was going to do that later today," I replied.
"I can submit it to the local sheriff," Paul offered. "Steph, I have copies of your government identifications and permit from New Jersey. It shouldn't take long for them to approve the application."
"Thank you," I said and signed the paperwork to carry my gun.
I slung the laptop bag over my left shoulder, where it bumped against my purse. Uncle Vincent held the door open, permitting me to leave ahead of him. Paul followed us from the conference room. He quickly disappeared; I assumed to catch his flight home to file the paperwork first thing in the morning. Paul wouldn't get home in time to file them tonight.
Hal waited outside the room in that oh-so-sexy pose of his - the one where he crossed his arms and his right foot was raised, flat against the wall. He grinned as he pushed off with his foot. "Were you waiting here long?" I breathily asked.
"Only a few minutes," he replied. Hal tucked a loose hair behind my ear. His fingers stroked my cheek before he moved it away. I sighed and let him hold my hand. We exited the law firm. "Do you want to talk about it?" Hal asked.
"Not really. I need a few days to wrap my head around everything. When I'm ready to share, I'll find you," I replied.
Hal opened my car door and waited until I buckled my seatbelt before kissing my forehead. I loved these intimate moments with him. He made me feel treasured. "Wait until I'm in the truck," Hal said. I nodded as he closed the door. Knowing he planned to follow me doesn't hook my anger as it would have with my other Merry Men.
Once Hal turned over the engine, I drove my car and followed the GPS instructions to return to the bed and breakfast. It was only necessary because I couldn't stop myself from catching Hal's truck in the rearview mirror. Whenever I caught his eye, he gave me a sexy smile and winked. It warmed me in all the right places.
I arrived at the bed and breakfast and parked in the spot I previously vacated. Hal parked his truck beside my vehicle. He jumped from the cab and ripped my door open before I could turn off the engine. I smiled and accepted his proffered hand. It felt warm in mine. His thumb moved across the back of my hand, sending electricity through my arm and settling in my heart. I gasped at the sensation, making Hal tug my hand until my body was pressed tightly against his. Hal wrapped his arms around me and breathed in my scent, likely committing it to memory as I did with his natural musk. God, Hal smelled divine.
The thin clothes separating us did nothing to mute the warmth and scent of his body. I wanted more. That thought scared me more than anything. I went on vacation to fall out of love with Ranger and Morelli. Jumping into a new one with a sexy ex-SEAL was not planned. Hal dropped his arms when I pressed my hand on his chest. He respected my boundaries.
"Hal, as much as I want to explore whatever is happening between us, I need time to get over Ranger and Joe," I whispered.
"Take all the time you need," Hal huskily replied. "I'm not going anywhere for the next four weeks." It was a promise and a threat rolled into one. Deep inside my heart, I was thankful he understood.
"But if you sneak up and scare me, I'll stun your ass," I warned. Hal chuckled, likely thinking it wouldn't be possible.
I stared at Hal's ass as he walked away. He started running, making me question what he was doing. My mouth popped open as he leaped over the five-foot high fence like a pro and rolled on the grass on the other side. Hal peeked over his shoulder and winked. "Show off!" I yelled, earning a boisterous laugh from my usually shy Merry Man.
Sharlene was smiling when I entered the house. "It's been so long since I've seen Halton smile or heard him laugh. You bring out the best in him," she said. "How long have the two of you known each other?" Sharlene's question surprised me. I wasn't aware she noticed our familiarity.
"Three years," I replied. "We're coworkers at Rangeman Trenton."
Her grin widened as she asked, "Are you the Stephanie who tasered my son?"
"Stunned, not tasered," I corrected, returning her smile.
"My boy doesn't trust easily. Something about you must have lowered his defences," she mused.
Snorting, I replied, "More likely he was afraid of Ranger's reaction if he denied my request."
Sharlene's gaze turned hard at the mention of Ranger. "That man is too serious. His disciplinary actions leave much to be desired," she snarled.
"What do you mean?" I queried.
"I understand the men need to spar to release their anger, but it goes against all the labour laws. Personally, I think Hal should leave Rangeman and get a job utilizing his computer technology skills."
Her statement piqued my interest. "What computer skills?"
"Let's go to the kitchen to grab a coffee and some cake," she suggested. Sharlene giggled when I immediately followed. "Well, you're easy to please."
"You had me at cake," I joked. We laughed as Sharlene grabbed the mugs from the cupboard. Sharlene wouldn't let me help. I sat at the table and waited for her to finish fussing over me. Once she sat across the table, I ate a bite of cake. "So good," I mumbled, gesturing for her to tell me more about Hal.
"When Hal enlisted into the Navy, I worried about how he would interact with the other men. He has always been a shy boy. I could always tell when he found a girl attractive. Hal's face turned pink every time except when I observed you and him alone outside. His face displayed his affection and adoration. My son loves you, Stephanie," Sharlene said.
"And the computer skills?" I asked, hoping to learn more about his education and less about how he felt about me.
"You're not so easily distracted," she laughed. "That's good because Hal needs a strong woman by his side." I cleared my throat, earning another laugh. "Okay, I'll get to the point."
Sharlene told me that Hal and Jamie joined the Navy to get an education while serving their country. They learned marketable skills, which would transfer flawlessly into the civilian lifestyle. Unfortunately, none of the information technology companies offered Hal a job. They claimed he wasn't the best fit for the available positions.
"Why didn't they have him work in the office and leave the others to mingle with the customers?" I wondered.
Smiling, Sharlene said, "The owners used his shyness as an excuse. But I think the deciding factor was his contract with the SEALs. He needed the flexibility to leave on a moment's notice to complete his obligations to the military. Most businesses reject applicants who are active soldiers."
"That's ridiculous. Those narrow-minded people should be thanking them for their sacrifice and honouring them by giving them employment," I snarled.
Sharlene leaned forward to touch my hand. "I wish everyone had your opinion. Unfortunately, more are in the other camp of thinking military men are thugs and mentally unstable. Hal and Jamie were different after serving their time. It hardened them; Hal more than Jamie because he joined the SEALs."
"I saw that when I worked at Rangeman Trenton part-time. The men were closed off and rarely looked you in the eye. Now, they're a friendly group who love to have fun. I'm not bothered by the silent type. My father served in Vietnam. Being in the trenches changes a man. I remember when Dad morphed from an outgoing man to one keeping to himself. Fighting for our freedom comes at a price that most people don't seem to comprehend," I argued. "Sorry, you may continue." I ate more cake to stop myself from interrupting again.
"Hal learned everything from building computers to programming. He may come across as unintelligent, but there's more going on inside his brain than the clueless expression on his face indicates," Sharlene laughed. "Though I must confess he's a little naive at times."
"Like trusting me with his stun gun and asking him how to use it?" I joked. Sharlene and I laughed until I cried. She passed me a napkin to wipe my eyes.
"I couldn't believe the story when he shared it during his visit," Sharlene giggled. "He has a copy of the video."
"The guys still tease him about it," I said. "I almost feel bad for him."
"What did you mean when you threatened to stun his ass if he scared you?" she questioned.
"Hal finds it rather amusing to sneak up on me, which reminds me that I'm unaware of my surroundings. I said I would stun his ass if he kept it up," I shrugged. Sharlene found it amusing.
"I've heard all the stories of your mishaps and can't wait to see how this unfolds. You two are perfect for each other. Welcome to the family," Sharlene announced. She promptly stood and took the dirty dishes to the sink, dismissing me with a wave of a hand. Sharlene hummed to prevent me from asking her what the hell she meant.
I left the kitchen feeling stunned. It wasn't often when someone rendered me speechless. Sharlene thought I was a strong woman and perfect for her son, Hal. And why does her approval make me want to shout for joy?
Needing an escape, I used the laptop from Uncle Vincent to research shopping centres in the area. I located one and immediately left to purchase a hat, boots and jeans. It didn't take long to arrive at the store and find everything I needed.