“What about the business you’re considering, Laura?” Phoebe went on. “The one that will be given a start with money from your family property. I don’t know what you’re planning but let’s say whatever it is becomes very successful.” She paused and smiled. “I hope it does. Anyway, perhaps some time in the future you decide to sell this highly successful business. Will you be giving Bree and Kate a share of that?”

Laura frowned and Phoebe went on. “We have to draw a line in the sand somewhere when it comes to properties and your parents are being as fair as they can be from what I can see. You have to be prepared to accept that if Bree goes ahead and takes over the property it becomes hers in its entirety and it’s not without its encumbrances. She has to continue to pay your grandmother’s allowance while she’s alive and pay for your parents during their lifetime. This would not be something you would be expected to do, nor Kate.”

Laura had shifted in her chair. “I was just wondering,” she’d squeaked and Phoebe had smiled and moved on.

Bree studied her dad now as he flicked the pages of the newsletter again.

“Thanks, Dad.”

He looked up, surprised. “What for?”

“For trusting me with the place.”

“It’s not yours yet.”

“I know.”

“There’s still time to change your mind.”

“I know.”

He scratched his chin. “Do you think you might?”

She thought about that a moment then looked him in the eye. “No.”

“This trip with Owen—”

“It’s only temporary. We’ve done a lot of talking since he’s been in Marla. We think our future’s here even if his business is in town.”

“It’s not easy running a property alone.”

“I’ll have to employ someone when I need help.” She gave him a tentative smile. “But I hope you’ll be around for a while yet.”

“I didn’t think you liked working with me.”

“I don’t mind working with you, it’s the for you that’s tough.”

Milt gave her a sharp look. “When I’m sixty-five it’s all yours.” Then his gaze softened, and he looked almost contrite. “I hope we can continue to work together and even after you take over the property. We both want beneficial outcomes for the place.”

She nodded.

“You understand the property, managing stock…” He swallowed. “And you have some good ideas. I’m proud of the way you work, Bree, the things you achieve…you’ve got a sensible head on your shoulders.”

Bree was speechless a moment. “You’ve never said…I thought you were looking for help elsewhere.”

A puzzled look crossed his face.

“You spend a lot of time with Jack.”

“Hell’s teeth, not you too.”

“What do you mean, me too?”