Whitmore two years earlier. Grant came from wealth, or at least enjoyed giving that impression. His father, Charles Whitmore, was a senior regional director at Meridian Industrial Systems.
None of them knew Meridian belonged to me.
My late husband and I founded it twenty-seven years ago in a rented warehouse. After his death, I withdrew from public view and appointed professional executives to oversee daily operations. My ownership was held through a private holding company.
Rachel knew I had “investments.”
She had no idea of their value.
I wanted her relationships to develop without my wealth influencing them.
Now that choice was hurting me.
I arrived at the Whitmores’ Christmas Eve celebration with Rachel’s favorite pie and a small box holding my late husband’s bracelet, intended as her gift.
Grant opened the door, eyeing my modest coat.
“You came?”
“Rachel invited me.”
His expression tightened.
Inside, designer-clad guests mingled. Charles
