Page 39 of Highlands Homecoming

Melissa handed Andrew the divorce papers and pointed out the 2-1 date that Dave had scribbled at the bottom. “He post-dated this so he could try to scam his way into co-owning and selling my newly inherited home.”

Andrew looked over the papers and raised an eyebrow. “Well, that’s certainly not playing nice. Fortunately, I have some tricks up my sleeve,” he said.

Andrew read through the documents, then looked at the text Dave had sent Melissa.

“Hmmmm … Yes … Well …” Andrew paused, his index finger tapping thoughtfully against his chin. “I hate to ask, but I have to.” He turned toward Melissa and raised an eyebrow inquisitively. “Does this man play poker?”

Melissa let out a small sigh before answering. “Excuse me?”

Andrew leaned forward, his eyes narrowing as he drilled into her with his stare. “Is he cunning? Can he read people? Is he …” He paused, searching for the right word.

“He’s aglaikit bampot eejit,” said Margaret matter-of-factly.

Melissa, who had been silent up until this point, looked puzzled at the unfamiliar words. “Eejit, yes. The rest of that I didn’t really get.”

Andrew threw back his head and let out a hearty laugh. “I think we’re all set then.” He turned to face Melissa. “Now here’s the situation.” He gestured with his hands as he spoke. “In the US, what he did was sly, but the date holds up. In the UK, you’re right—that’s not how we handle dates.” He glanced back at Margaret for confirmation before continuing. “However, it’s not like we don’t understand American dates. But for the good of the cause, I’ll be happy to play the strict and to-the-letter barrister who has a stick up his arse.” His voice dripped with sarcasm as he emphasized the last few words. “I think we can scare him away so he’ll never come back to bother you again.” He turned back to Melissa with a mischievous glint in his eye. “What do you think?”

Melissa's face lit up with excitement as she answered. “Unleash the kraken!”

“Here’s how it’s going to play out,” said Andrew, and the three began to conspire.

Dave’s realtor’soffice was a bustling hub of activity, filled with the sounds of ringing phones and clicking keyboards. Colin was already waiting inside when Melissa, Margaret, and Andrew arrived. Dressed in a sharp, polished gray suit, Colin's eyes twinkled as they fell upon Melissa entering the room. Despite his obvious admiration for her, he maintained a professional demeanor and didn't show any signs of recognizing her team.

Melissa exudedconfidence and elegance in her favorite Mackenzie tartan dress, complete with matching shoes and her clan pin proudly displayed on her lapel—her version of a power suit. As she took in the scene around her, Melissa couldn't help but feel a sense of importance and determination wash over her. Margaret and Andrew stood by her side, fierce protectors, guarding her back. She breathed a sigh of relief, grateful to have their unwavering support. Though she avoided making eye contact with Colin, she was secretly thankful to have him as her secret weapon in this situation.

Dave sauntered into the office a few minutes later, coffee in hand and sporting a rumpled navy suit and scuffed black shoes. With him were a stern-looking corporate businessman and a high-end realtor, both clearly well-versed in the art of negotiation and deal-making.

As Dave and Melissa stood in the office, a sense of tension hung thick in the air.

"All right. Wasn’t sure you’d show up or be able to find the place, but here you are," he chuckled, a hint of smugness in his voice.

“It was easy,” said Melissa.

Dave's cronies snickered, but she didn't let his teasing faze her. She knew her worth and capabilities, despite what Dave may think. Her attention quickly turned to the matter at hand as Dave continued speaking.

“So, my buyer is ready to close and would like to take possession in the next two weeks."

"I’m afraid that won’t be possible,” Melissa interjected innocently.

“I’ve already made the agreement, Mel. Your opinion doesn’t matter here,” Dave stated firmly.

But before Dave could continue, Andrew spoke up with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. "About that …" he began, drawing out each word for effect. "It seems that you are no longer married to Melissa."

Dave's confidence faltered for a moment before he regained his composure. "Nope," he proclaimed proudly. "We’re still married until February 1st." He tapped on his phone screen and turned it toward Andrew to show him the paperwork.

Andrew put on a show of examining the documents, furrowing his brow and making thoughtful noises. Finally, he looked up at Dave and shook his head slowly. “I’m sorry," he said with mock concern. "I don’t see anything here about February. You’ve clearly dated this January 2nd." He gestured toward the date on the document.

Dave's expression turned to confusion as he checked the date himself. "January 2nd? That can't be right." He studied his phone, trying to understand the confusion.

"In the UK, we put the date before the month," Melissa explained triumphantly.

Dave's face fell as he realized his mistake.

“We don’t accept post-dated documents, or whatever this ismeantto be,” Andrew stated firmly, looking pointedly at Dave. “Your divorce was finalized weeks ago when Melissa signed her papers. She wasn't even in possession of Greenhill House at that time.”

Andrew paused for effect, then added with a flourish, “It wasn't until mid-January, I believe.”

Dave's face contorted into a scowl. “This is absolute bullshit!” he exclaimed, his voice rising in anger.