Page 19 of A Vineyard for Two

She was listening, but her brain was going at a million miles an hour. This was insane. She had to talk to Brookes. They’d have to come to some agreement. There had to be a logical solution to get out of this.

‘Ms McGregor, may I ask you a question?’

‘Yes.’

‘Why do you want to give up this inheritance? You’ve been given an amazing opportunity. I’ve frequented Mathers Vineyard on many occasions when it was in its prime. It’s a beautiful spot with so much potential. Hugh created an experience people wanted to return to time and time again. You’ve truly been given a wonderful gift; an opportunity of a lifetime.’

She didn’t have a doubt about that. Hugh Mathers had taken care of the property and given his heart and soul to it. It had been his life. His everything, especially after his wife passed decades earlier.

Harper tried to think of a logical reason for her hesitance, but she couldn’t. It came down to her and Brookes and this place. She couldn’t stay here and yet, for some reason, this was the place the path was leading to.

‘It’s complicated.’

‘Only if you choose to make it so.’

‘Maybe.’

‘Did Georgia explain the inheritance in its entirety?’

‘What do you mean?’

‘The details. I know Georgia is good at revealing only what she wants you to know. Did she explain the full stipulations of the Will?’

‘She said that Brookes and I inherited Mathers Vineyard. That was it. You told me we have to both accept it, otherwise none of us get it. Is there something else I should be aware of?’

He sighed. ‘I think it’s best you talk to your aunt.’

TWELVE

‘This is insane,’ Harper exclaimed, standing with her hands on her hips. ‘Christmas in July. I can’t spend the next year here. I have responsibilities.’

Georgia shook her head. ‘No, dear. Not next year. This year. The stipulation is that the inn, vineyard and cellar door are opened for Christmas in July this year.’

Brookes laughed. ‘I always liked a challenge.’

‘A challenge. This is impossible. July is ten days away. We can’t possibly do what he’s requested in less than two weeks.’

‘Why not?’ Georgia asked.

There were many reasons. Some Harper didn’t feel like divulging. Regardless, the stipulation was unreasonable and ridiculous. Firstly, she and Brookes were given a vineyard to run together, and then for some crazy wish they had to get it revamped and organise a Christmas in July feast for the locals. Ridiculous was an understatement. It was laughable and absurd; they were being set up for failure.

‘It’s not going to be easy. But it’s possible,’ Brookes said.

She saw the spark in his eye — a look of excitement and hope of the possibilities. ‘Keep dreaming. We don’t even know if the place is structurally sound. There are council approvals that are required, trades to be organised. And that’s just the beginning. What happens if we don’t meet the stipulation?’

‘That’s not an option,’ Brookes said.

‘You both lose the property and it will go on to the next beneficiary,’ Georgia informed.

‘Who is that?’

‘That’s irrelevant because we’re not going to lose the property.’

‘Brookes, be realistic.’

‘Stop being so pessimistic. When did you stop being a dreamer? I remember you were always up for getting your hands dirty, Harper. Did the city make you go soft?’

Georgia gave a chuckle in the corner.