Page 125 of A Devious Secret

Gemma uncrossed her arms and accepted the paper that Henry extended towards her. “Why would you even want the property?” she asked as she reviewed the contract in her hand.

“I don’t, but I want to help you,” Henry replied. “When, and if, you marry, I want you to have funds at your disposal.”

“That is most thoughtful of you.”

“Are we in agreement, then?”

Gemma brought her gaze up and saw that Henry was smiling like he was offering her a grand treat. But she wasn’t ready to give up the one thing that Baldwin had given her, even if it wasn’t worth anything.

She handed him the paper back. “I’m sorry, but I do believe I will keep the property.”

Henry’s brow shot up. “Why would you do something so foolish?” he demanded.

“I just feel—”

He cut her off. “You won’t get a better offer than mine!” he exclaimed.

“It is the only thing I have left of Baldwin.”

With a scoff, Henry declared, “I hadn’t taken you for the sentimental type, considering you have already forgotten Baldwin.”

“I have not forgotten Baldwin,” she asserted.

Henry tightened his hold on the paper in his hand. “You would be a fool not to take this offer,” he said. “Baldwin would be rolling over in his grave, knowing you turned down all that money.”

Gemma tilted her chin. “My answer is no.”

Henry’s right eye twitched. “You will regret this, Gemma,” he said in a low, menacing voice.

“I don’t think I will.” Gemma reached for the door. “Good day, Henry.”

Before he could say another word, she took a step back and closed the door. Only then did she let out the breath of air that she had been holding.

“Are you all right, my lady?” Balfour asked with a concerned look on his face.

Gemma bobbed her head. “I will be.”