Epilogue
Lucinda
The last twenty-four hours had my head spinning.
We’d made it back to the boat off the coast of Saint Augustine, Florida.
The cruise was on the return route back to South Carolina.
Zach and I hadn’t made any decision regarding our future.
We were together, but nothing was concrete.
His deception still lingered in the back of my mind, but it was hard to stay mad when my heart had found its home.
I was content and had fully consented to go along for the ride.
Promises made during the throes of passion or in the aftermath of an argument were unreliable.
I was truly exhausted, happy to not think and let Zach take the lead.
For now.
“Happy Birthday Lulu.”
Zach stood at the end of the bed in his stateroom, a manilla envelope in his hand.
“Thank you, Uncle Zach.”
He cringed and dropped the envelope on my chest.
“What is this?” I flipped it over.
“Open it.”
I opened the tab and pulled out a small stack of papers.
The Contract was written at the top of page one.
“It’s me asking for permission.” His voice remained stoic as he shoved his hands in his pockets.
I flipped through the pages. Eight in all.
“Is it negotiable?” I sat up on my knees in front of him.
His face scrunched up. “The details.” He nodded. “Of course. The nature of the contract, no. It covers it all. You are mine, Lucinda.” He handed me a pen.
I sat back on my heels, nibbling the end of the pen, contemplating how long I’d make him wait.
“I won’t ask again.”
“Nor should you have to, Uncle Zach.” I grinned.
He growled, shoved me onto my back and laid on top of me.
“Rule number one establishes how you should address me.”
“Yes, Sir.”
“Exactly.”
“Thank you for my present, Sir.” I wrapped my arms around him and held in tight. “It’s what I’ve always wanted.”
THE END