Page 10 of Stuck with my Mechanic Daddies

He gave me a flat look. “Not a chance.”

“Then I'll handle it.”

He nodded, closed the book, and tapped the cover. “Good. Just try not to enjoy it too much.”

I smirked, turning back to the car.

No promises.

CHAPTER THREE

Aurora

The lawyer’soffice smelled like old books and coffee gone cold.

I sat stiffly in a leather chair across from Thomas Calloway, a man who looked exactly like every small-town attorney I’d ever seen in movies. Gray hair, wire-rimmed glasses, and a suit that had probably never been in fashion.

He cleared his throat, adjusting the paperwork on his desk. “Miss Bennett, I know you were hoping for a quick sale, but I’m afraid it’s not that simple.”

Of course it wasn’t.

I pinched the bridge of my nose. “What do you mean?”

Calloway sighed like he was bracing for my reaction. “For one, the property transfer isn’t finalized. Your uncle never updated certain documents, which means there’s a backlog of legal work before the store is officially yours to sell.”

My stomach tightened. “How long are we talking?”

“A few weeks, minimum.”

I exhaled slowly. “Right. And that's just one issue, I’m guessing.”

Calloway nodded. “There’s also the matter of Page Turners itself. It’s in significant disrepair, and there are outstanding debts. If you sell as is, you'll barely break even.”

I swallowed a curse. Of course, my uncle had left me a mess.

Running a hand through my hair, I shifted in my seat. “What if I just walk away? Let the town take it or something?”

Calloway gave me a patient but pointed look. “The bookstore is in your name. If you abandon it, the debts could follow you.”

Perfect. Just perfect.

I leaned back, staring at the ceiling, willing the universe to cut me a damn break.

“Miss Bennett,” Calloway said after a moment, “I understand this isn’t what you expected. But Page Turners meant a lot to your uncle. If you take the time to fix it up, you might find it’s worth more than just money.”

I didn’t need a sentimental sales pitch. I needed an exit strategy.

I pressed my lips together, resisting the urge to argue. I hadn't come here for a heartfelt speech about the value of dusty bookshelves and nostalgia. I had come here to untangle myself from this mess as quickly as possible.

But it turned out, I was stuck.

At least for now.

I exhaled sharply and sat up. “Fine. Let’s say I don’t sell right away. What's my best option?”

Calloway leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. “Your uncle’s debts aren’t insurmountable. With some work, the store could be profitable again. If you invest a little time?—”

I held up a hand. “Stop right there. I don’t plan on staying in Medford long term.”

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