Slow Road to Love by Juliette Duncan

Author:Juliette Duncan
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Juliette Duncan

Chapter 20

After breakfast the next morning, Frank called a family meeting to talk about a few important matters. Those being his meeting with the DPI officer, Olivia and Nathan’s decision to leave the station and move to the city, and his new relationship with Maggie and the desire to slow down and enjoy life a little more. Things were changing at Goddard Downs and he wanted to ensure that everyone was not only aware of the changes but could also have a say in the station’s future. His only regret was that Joshua still wasn’t back from his latest adventure, but this couldn’t wait.

“What’s this about, Dad? Surely it can wait until the morning chores are done,” Julian said, his expression one of pained tolerance.

“Jim and Dean can handle the morning chores just fine. What I have to say is important for you all to hear.” Frank paused and blew out a heavy breath as he figured out the best way to start. It wasn’t often they had such a serious meeting. “As you all know, I went to Darwin last week to meet with our prospective buyer, Mr. Tamala, and also with the DPI officer about the station’s certifications and licensing. The first meeting went well, but to say the second didn’t go as planned would be an understatement.”

Julian crossed his arms. “I told you I should have gone with you. I would have handled the situation.”

“I handled the situation just fine, Julian. I was well prepared with all your notes and research, but it didn’t make a difference in the end.”

“You should have let me…”

Frank stared him down. It was enough to stop Julian in his tracks. He didn’t often use his position in the family as a means of controlling a room, but he did so now. He didn’t even have to get up from the table. All he had to do was fold his arms across his chest and wait. He didn’t say a word, he simply pinned Julian with his gaze. Julian’s tirade faded and the seconds ticked by. No one flinched or uttered a word.

Finally, Julian let out a breath and shook his head. He was still angry, but at least he had enough respect for his father not to open his mouth again.

“Now, as I was saying, the meeting didn’t go as planned.” He looked directly at his eldest son. “It didn’t matter how thorough our research was, or that we did in fact, qualify for the exemption for this year.”

“What do you mean?” Julian demanded.

“Money.”

“Money? I don’t understand. We have the money to cover the fees.”

“Not that kind of money, son.”

Julian’s brows drew together. “I don’t get it.”

Frank rubbed his thumb and two fingers together.

Julian’s eyes widened. “Bribery? You mean bribery, don’t you? That’s ridiculous!”

“He didn’t exactly say that, but it’s what he intimated.”

“Are you sure?” Julian asked.

Frank shrugged. “Not entirely, but I’m not stupid.”

“You didn’t agree?” Olivia asked, sounding horrified.

“Of course not.”

“And that’s why you called this emergency family meeting,” she said.

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