I was learning that lawyers were very careful with words.
I was also learning why.
The next morning, Miriam brought over a tray of cinnamon rolls.
I told her about the offer.
She gave a low whistle.
“A hundred and seventy-five thousand?”
“Yes.”
“Thomas once told me Richard Vale offered him over a million, years back.”
I nearly dropped my coffee.
“What?”
“Your husband refused.”
“Why would Richard offer less now?”
Miriam’s expression hardened.
“Because he thinks you’re easier to frighten.”
Those words stayed with me.
For most of my life, people had mistaken kindness for weakness.
I didn’t want to become suspicious of everyone.
I didn’t want to turn into a bitter woman who saw enemies behind every smile.
But I was beginning to understand something important.
Being generous did not require being available for exploitation.
That afternoon, I walked the property for the first time.
