“Perhaps not. These loans you’ve allowed against the property.” Jacinta’s eyes narrowed. “My lawyer has informed me you could be in breach of your executor’s duties. If that were the case it would be up to the court to appoint someone else and that person—” Jacinta tapped her finger to her lips and glanced up then back at Rowena. “Perhaps, as my father was co-exec before he died, that person could be my mother – and that person might take Uncle Daniel’s desire to assist our side of the family into consideration.”

“That would involve a long and costly court case.”

“Oh, but we could avoid that couldn’t we, Aunt Rowena? We wouldn’t want the family laundry aired for everyone to see…illegal dealings reported in papers. Especially your local paper. I’ve been reading the latest edition. It’s very comprehensive, full of information about the locals.” Her smile was smug now.

Rowena felt sick inside but she refused to give Jacinta satisfaction by showing it. She took a deep breath and lifted her chin. “What is it you want, Jacinta?”

“The farm of course…everything.”

Rowena snorted. “Everything includes its debts.”

“Not those for other properties and sheep. That would need to be separated. Stewart can manage what comes with this property, minus those debts.” She jabbed her finger at Rowena.

There was a tap at the door. “Jacinta? Time we were on our way.”

“Coming, Stewart,” she called and rose to her feet. “It’s been so nice to see you at last.” Once more her gaze swept the room. “And you have such a lovely house. Much better than Dan’s. Mum said you’re getting married. Perfect timing for you to move on and enjoy life with your new man. I’ll tell her how glowing you looked.”

Rowena gripped her fingers tightly in her lap to resist the urge to jump up and slap Jacinta.

“When I get home I’ll get my lawyer to send a detailed proposal.” The younger woman waggled her fingers in farewell. “Don’t get up. I can let myself out.”

Rowena stayed in her chair. She heard the door shut and then the sound of the car moving away but still she sat staring at nothing. Finally she raised her gaze to the photo of Dan and Paula on their wedding day. It was only then her lip quivered and tears began to roll down her cheeks.

Chapter 32

CHAPTER

32

Paula cast her gaze over the tray of pasties then covered them with a clean tea towel. They weren’t quite as neat as Dara’s but she was pleased with them. Unable to resist the delicious smell once she’d removed them from the oven, she’d eaten one and had been very happy with the taste.