All three of you and your beautiful niece Rory, need better access in case things take a turn for the worse on that Island. So I thought I’d pull out one last trick I have hidden up my sleeve(surprised you didn’t I?).
I’ve given instructions to my old lawyer and his son that as soon as you give him this letter they will set up Satellite to the Island so that you have Internet access. I should have done that years ago, but never got around to it. But now it’ll get done.
My great-grandson Gabe will help out with anything else you need, tell him Grand said so. My hope is that these new services will help you all feel safer, more connected to others and more at peace on the Island. I hope you enjoy that little slice of Heaven on earth as much as I have. Walker Stevenson.
Rory looked around the table and saw all three of her aunts wiping tears from their eyes. “It’s just like your great-grandfather to do something crazy and wonderful like this as a last surprise.” Aunt Merrie wiped the tears from her eyes as she looked at Gabe.
“Yeah, he always did like surprising people by having the last word.” Gabe chuckled softly. Rory could tell he was moved by his great-grandfather’s last kind gesture too. “Well I’m glad Grand did took care of that. I’ll need to get that satellite setup as well as take care of a few things. I’ll be going to Seattle to organize some things today and hope to be back by the end of the week.” He nodded to everyone and walked to the door.
Her aunts waved back at him. Rory followed him outside.
“It was thoughtful of your great-grandfather to do that for us. We’ll all feel safer for it.” Rory stood outside her hands tucked into her jeans pockets looking down at her feet before looking up at Gabe.
He grinned, a crinkle forming by his mesmerizing blue eyes. “Grand always loved his surprises. It was just like him to have one last hurrah.”
Memories of summers spent laughing at Walker Stevenson’s teasing rose to the surface. Rory treasured those summers.
Gabe reached over and tucked a strand of blond hair behind one ear. Rory shivered at his touch. “Grand really cared about his four Island ladies. He wanted you to have fun and feel safe here.”
She swallowed back tears that clogged her throat. There hadn’t been many people in their lives who had cared what happened to the four of them. It had been the four of them doing so much of life alone ever since she was a little girl. A painful longing squeezed her belly at Gabe’s touch.
Rory tamped it down and swallowed back emotions that threatened to spill over.
“Well I should get going.” Gabe reached over and squeezed her hand. “I’ll be back Friday. We can go sailing then.”
She forced a smile and waved as he got in Grand’s old truck and drove away.
As his truck disappeared behind the trees, a familiar pain pierced her heart.
Gabe had left.
She was grateful he was making their Island a safer place, but in some ways she wished he would disappear out of their lives again. It was too hard to have him close and be reminded of her attraction to him.
Besides, what if they really weren’t safe here? Her three aunts had told her on her eighteenth birthday that someone they knew a long time ago had threatened to harm her on her birthday. So, every year when the calendar moved closer to her birthday, her aunts insisted she stay close to home.
Her twenty-first birthday was soon.
She would need to make sure Gabe was far away from her on that date so nothing bad would happen to him.
Pushing her shoulders back, she walked into the cottage with a new resolve.
Anyway I look at it, I’d best not let myself get to close to Gabe Stevenson. If I do, it’ll mean trouble for both of us.
Chapter Three
“Where to Mr. Stevenson?” He had just anchored his yacht in a Seattle marina, when his limo driver and personal assistant drove up.
“I have an appointment with Grand’s lawyer downtown. Thanks Henry.” Gabe sat down in the back seat of the limo resting his head as Henry drove the car.
Gabe’s thoughts returned to what Rory’s aunts had hurriedly whispered in his ear this morning while Rory had been upstairs changing her clothes.
“I’m afraid all this trouble might have come to us because of Rory’s past.” Aunt Fawn started to relate the story, a solemn expression in her grey eyes.
“You see before Rory was born, her father had a mistress. He’d convinced Rory’s mom he loved her, but his actions proved otherwise. Maybe the mistress is trying somehow to get back at our Rory? We also have an older sister - Rory’s Aunt Mallory.
Last time she saw Rory was when she was six years old. Mal always told Delanie that she spoiled the little princess too much. Mal complained that Rory got everything that should have come to her, but never did. But she’s been long gone a long time so I don’t think there’s anything to worry about there.
Aunt Florrie sighed heavily and had looked at Gabe. “We don’t know for certain if someone is trying to harm her. But, will you look into this and help us find a way to protect our niece?”
“And without telling her about this conversation?” Aunt Merrie added.
Gabe of course had agreed.
His thoughts were still whirling when Henry opened the car door.
“We’re here sir.”
Startled, Gabe expelled a breath and gathered his briefcase. “I’m on my way. Thanks, Henry.”
He looked up at the old brick building. Large box-style gold letters of Sterling and Sons, hung stately in the front of the building giving the law office the impression of a resilient strength. It reminded him of Grand. Walking up the front steps he remembered every Christmas that Grand gave a gift to Robert Sterling as a way of showing appreciation for all he did. They had been long-time friends and Grand had trusted Mr. Sterling implicitly.
Gabe introduced himself to the receptionist who sent a quick message to her boss.
She stood to her feet. “Mr. Sterling will see you now. Please follow me.” Gabe followed to an office with large double doors and was promptly greeted by the lawyer himself.
Grand’s old lawyer now had a completely white head of hair and more wrinkles on his face than Gabe remembered. He shook his hand a large grin on his face. “Gabe Stevenson. Always happy to have a member of Walker Stevenson’s family in my office.”
“Mr. Sterling thanks for seeing me. You’re doing well?”
“Still alive and kicking so that’s something.” Mr. Sterling gestured for him to sit down, and went to sit behind his desk. “What brings you here today, Gabe?”
Gabe expelled long sigh before telling him about Grand’s letter and the incidents that had been going on near the cottage. “Rory and her three aunts are really looking forward to having the satellite set up around their cottage on Walker’s Island.”
“Ah, yes. I remember the day Walker came to my office and let me know about his plans. I thought it a good idea. Still do. I’ll ask my son Steven to do the legwork on this. We’ll get this in motion this week.”
“That’s a weight off my mind.” Gabe expelled a breath. “My plan is to move to the Island for a few weeks. I’m also looking to hire a team to set up hidden security cameras on the Island. I’ll sleep better at night knowing those are in place.”
Mr. Sterling eyed him for a moment before searching through his business cards. “If you want someone you can trust to setup the security cameras and uncover who is behind the trouble on the Island, Max Harrington is your man. He’s a former Navy Seal, who now works as a private investigator. He has a team of men who are also veterans who are very thorough. I’ve hired his team myself. Max can be trusted to be discreet.”
Gabe took the business card from Mr. Sterling. “This is just what I need. I call him and see what he can do.” He stood up and shook the old lawyer’s hand. “Now I know why Grand trusted you with so much Mr. Sterling. Thank you.”
“Just happy to help one of Walker’s family. And speaking of your great-grandfather and his plans fo
r his great-grandsons, is there to be a Mrs. Gabe Stevenson in the near future?” Mr. Sterling walked him to the door a big grin on his face.
“I’m hoping there will be.” Gabe expelled a long breath just in that moment realizing it was true. “I’ll send you and Mrs. Sterling an invitation when I know for sure.”
“You do that my boy! We will be there. Then I can give you the deed of ownership for Walker’s Island.” Mr. Sterling clapped him on the back.
“That sounds really good. Thanks again, Mr. Sterling.” Gabe shook his hand and hurried out to his waiting limo.
He laughed a little as he thought of what he’d just told Grand’s old lawyer. There might be a Mrs. Gabe Stevenson in the near future? That’s the first time he’d said that out loud and thought of a woman he would really like to wear that title. A certain blond haired Island bombshell who liked digging for plants in the sea came to mind.
Gabe shook his head. Was he really thinking of doing this? He would only do this to lay claim to Walker’s Island. He was not going to allow himself to be in the position to be vulnerable to anyone else. His dad had done that, and look what happened to him. No, Gabe decided he would need to keep his emotions under control and make this strictly a marriage of convenience.
Before he took the leap, he really needed to talk to someone he respected.
As Henry dropped him off at his Condo, Gabe thought of Cyrus Noble’s charity event tonight.
Maybe he should find a moment to get advice from Adam or Jack. They’d already been through this. He trusted them to share any advice they had to give him.
Jazz music filled the air with sultry, soft tones as Gabe walked into the massive ballroom of The Noble Seascape Hotel, one of the most elegant hotels in Seattle. This place was close to the waterfront and the view was beautiful inside and out.
Gabe adjusted the front of his tuxedo, already eager to get out of his penguin suit. But, that would have to wait.
Looking around the room, he spotted a friend from college. He’d been friends with his older brother Billy, who died. Soon after Gabe started befriending Danny and they had continued to keep up with each others’ lives ever since.
Dan Summers stood near the water fountain waving him over.
“Hey man, it’s good to see you.” Dan grabbed his hand, a grin on his face.
“Good to see you too Dan. How’s the Marina business going?” Gabe had always thought it ideal that Dan’s father had been able to use their family name to his advantage. Summers Seaside Marina was a popular destination for residents and tourists alike.
“It’s going well. I’m busier than ever. Dad wants to retire so he take mom travelling. Looks like I’ll be taking over the company soon.” His friend shrugged. “I guess it’s time for me to step up to family responsibility.”
“That’s good. You and Amy planning on getting married any time soon?” Gabe remembered Dan’s girlfriend from college and how perfect Amy seemed for him.
“We’re planning a Christmas wedding as we speak.” Dan’s gaze narrowed as if trying to draw out Gabe’s secrets. “Speaking of getting married, I loved watching Winny O quiz you on your love life in your recent interview.”
Gabe grimaced as his friend chuckled. “Yeah well, that was uncomfortable to say the least.”
“Yet, you won over the audience anyway. You were great. So, it’s true that you need to marry soon to get your great-grandfather’s inheritance?”
“Sadly, yes. Still undecided if I’ll take on that challenge or not.” Gabe rubbed the back of his neck.
“Maddie seems eager for the position. She’s walking this way.”
“What?” Gabe’s stomach lurched as he turned to see his old girlfriend making her way toward him.
Dan grinned at him, in a better-you-than-me sardonic smile. “Have fun. See you later.” His friend walked away before Gabe could find a reason for him to stay.
He really didn’t want to talk to Maddie. As she drew nearer, he caught a glimpse of low cut red evening gown with a slit that was cut high up on her thighs. Gabe quickly moved his gaze up to her face. Her green eyes were pouty and flirty just like the rest of her.
Her sparkling jewels and glittering makeup had always seemed overdone. It didn’t appeal to him. Suddenly, an image of Rory wearing shorts and t-shirt on the beach formed in his mind. To him, Rory was more beautiful in her natural state than Maddie or any of the women here tonight.
Where did that thought come from?
No sooner had he tamped those thoughts down, than Maddie appeared at his side.
“Gabe Stevenson, I never doubted I’d find you here tonight.” Maddie stood close to him, slipping her hand into the curve of his arm as if she belonged there. “You always seem to show up at these charity events. I guess it’s good for your image, so why not?” She looked up at him a flirtatious smile on her face.
“Maddie you’re mistaken. I only show up for causes I believe in, not because I want to look good.” Irritated, Gabe started to step away from her.
Before he could pull his arm away, the flash of a nearby camera nearly blinded him. He looked ahead of them and saw the cameraman trying to get another picture of them.
Gabe pulled his arm away from Maddie and quickly turned away.
“What’s wrong Gabe? Are you suddenly shy of the camera?” Maddie persisted.
His brows puckered in frustration as he turned to look at her. “Honestly sometimes I do get tired of being constantly in the spotlight.”
Looking down at her, he could see a spark of confusion. “I would never get tired of being in front of the camera.”
And therein lay the difference between them.
When he was in front of the camera it was from an effort to help people discover their best self and to help them break off limitations so they could get ahead in life. For Maddie, it seemed her sole purpose was to show her face and figure for the world to admire.
Gabe bit back his frustration and instead asked pointedly, “Maddie what do you want?”
“Why, I just wanted to say hi. I knew you would be here tonight and I thought maybe we could get together after the event. You know, we could catch up for old times sake.” Her lips formed a flirty pout that many men had fallen for including him.
But, not this time.
“Sorry but no Maddie. We already talked about this. I’m not interested in getting back together.” Gabe was about to say more when suddenly the Master of Ceremonies walked up to the microphone.
“Ladies and gentlemen, if you could all take your seats we’ll be starting soon. Thank you.”
“Looks like that’s my cue. As always, it’s been interesting Maddie.” Gabe rescued his arm from her grip.
Her brows furrowed in frustration and he heard the click-clack of her designer shoe tapping a steady rhythm on the ballroom floor. “You should rethink your decision Gabe. You might be sorry you ever let me go.”
“I don’t think so, Maddie. Enjoy your evening.” Gabe stepped back, and with a curt nod walked away.
Looking over the large crowd mixed with designer dresses and tuxedos, he spotted Cyrus Noble talking with his brother Jack. Gabe joined up with them as they walked toward their table nearest the stage.
“Well if it isn’t Gabe Stevenson.” Cyrus grabbed his hand and pulled him into a massive bear hug. Gabe couldn’t help but grin as he was swallowed up by this giant of a man. Cyrus Noble was as mammoth in physical size as his billionaire dollar chain of luxury hotels. Cyrus released his hold on Gabe, slapped his back with a big grin and turned to speak to his wife. “Anna, look what the cat dragged in.”
They had reached a large table where Cyrus’s wife Anna stood beside Jack’s wife Bella and Adam’s wife Elle.
“Gabriel Stevenson, how nice to have you join us.” Anna Noble was much smaller than her husband and was as classy as her husband was unrefined. She pulled him into a soft hug and then with one hand tapped the seat beside her. “Come sit on my other side and tell me what you’ve been up
to lately.”
He grinned and accepted Anna’s kind invitation. It was nice to sit at the same table with this older couple that he so admired. Anna and Cyrus were opposites, but were so in love with each other that all you could see were how well they completed each other. Gabe looked on Cyrus as a father figure and mentor. He’d come to appreciate his advice in many areas of life and business.
Cyrus leaned down, kissed his wife’s cheek and held the chair out for her. Anna sat down gracefully and started up the conversation.
“It’s so nice to share a meal with the Stevenson brothers and their wives tonight. To friends.” Anna raised her glass and they all joined in the toast. “So Gabriel tell me what you’re up to.”
Gabe leaned back and began to tell Anna about the different places he’d had his live events and the positive response of the audiences.
“Sounds like you’re having a real impact. That doesn’t surprise me.” Anna’s gentle smile of appreciation warmed his heart and reminded him of his Mom. She was his biggest supporter. “What is surprising to me is why you’re not married yet. You, Gabriel are a fine catch for any woman. Your two brothers are blissfully enjoying the married state, yet you’re here without a woman on your arm. Why is that?”
Both Adam and Jack grinned at him from across the table. Gabe squirmed in his chair. He didn’t like when the focus fell on him especially around the topic of marriage. Both of his brothers had their arms around their wives enjoying this conversation a little too much.
“Well, I guess I haven’t found a woman I love enough to marry yet.” Gabe took long sip of water, hoping the topic would switch to something else.
Cyrus set down his drink and spoke up. “Anna love, didn’t you watch Winny O’s interview with Gabe? He told the world that he has to marry by his birthday or lose the inheritance from his great-grandfather.”
Anna looked at her husband before turning back to Gabe. “Sorry, I didn’t see the interview. So what do you inherit from your great-grandfather if you marry by your birthday?”
The Billionaire's Marriage Promise Page 4