Free Matilda's Last Waltz by Tamara McKinley Page B

time.’ He smiled. ‘He knew a bargain when he saw one. Churinga’s a good property.’
    The silence weighed heavy, the ticking of a clock marking the passing of time as she waited for him to tell her more.
    â€˜I realise this has come as something of a shock, Jennifer, and I apologise for not having told you before. But I had a duty to Peter to carry out his wishes.’
    Jenny recognised the apology was genuine and nodded. He was obviously not able to tell her anything more, but it left her feeling unsatisfied and curious.
    â€˜I suggest you think about it for a while, then come and see me in a few weeks’ time to discuss what you wish to do with your inheritance.’ He smiled his cold little smile. ‘We can of course help dispose of the property should you decide not to take it over. I know several investors who would snap it up if it came on to the market. Wool prices are high at the moment, and Churinga is a profitable station.’
    Jenny was still having trouble taking it all in – but the thought of getting rid of the sheep station before she’d even seen it didn’t sit well. But she wasn’t yet ready to voice her concern. John was right, she needed time to think.
    He drew out the pocket watch from his waistcoat. ‘I would advise you to sell Churinga, Jennifer. The outback is no place for a young woman, and I’m told the station is very isolated. Women don’t easily survive out there, especially those who are used to the city.’
    He eyed her delicate stiletto-heeled sandals and expensive cotton dress. ‘It’s still a man’s world when it comes to sheep farming in Australia – but then I suppose you already know that?’
    She almost smiled. The years of living in Dajarra and Waluna had obviously not left their mark. ‘I’ll think about it,’ she muttered.
    â€˜If you could just sign these papers to confirm you have been given notice of this latest inheritance? We will need them for our files.’
    She skimmed the legal jargon but couldn’t make much sense of it. The signature was still wet on the paper when another folder was placed before her.
    â€˜This is a copy of your late husband’s share portfolio, and I’ve made arrangements with the bank for you to draw the income. If you could just sign this, here, here, and here I’ll set up the accounts.’
    Jenny did as she was told. She was on automatic, out of control of the situation and almost at breaking point. She needed to get out of this claustrophobic office and into the sunshine. Needed time to think and digest the outcome of this extraordinary afternoon.
    â€˜I’ll make another appointment for you in three weeks’ time. By then you should have some idea of what you wish to do with Churinga.’
    Her emotions were mixed as she stepped out into the street. Bewilderment, sadness and curiosity were a heady cocktail. As she walked back through the park, she tried to imagine the outback station. It was probably just like a hundred others – but special because Peter had bought it for them.
    â€˜Churinga,’ she whispered, testing the feel of it on her tongue and in her mind. It was a lovely name. As old as time, mysterious and magical. She shivered with anticipation as she clasped the locket. Magic didn’t exist, not in the real world, but maybe she could find solace in the outback.
    *   *   *
    Diane knew the minute Jenny walked into the gallery that something was wrong. A casual observer would have noticed only the long brown legs and slender hips, the easy, casual grace of the way she carried herself, and the startling violet eyes. But Diane knew her too well.
    She turned to Andy who was nonchalantly flicking a duster over a sculpture. ‘You might as well go. We’ve done all we can for today.’
    His arch gaze drifted over Jenny before returning to Diane. ‘Girl talk, I suppose? Well, I know