Here’s a snippet from the Andrews Ranch (Netwalk Sequence) rewrite. Should go live in mid-to-late April.
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Diana pressed her lips tightly together. “There’s no way you could advance a partial payment?” Oh, she understood what was going on, all right. No surprise that the Third Force was having problems collecting taxes. Diana had to wonder just how much of the relocation waiver funds were being siphoned off into private accounts.
“Not tonight, I’m afraid.” Her mother’s tone was polite but firm. Still, it held a tiny note of hesitation that hinted more negotiation might find a solution.
“I’d settle for quarterly payments.” Was that a smirk on Peter’s face? Diana resolutely refused to be distracted by her brother, focusing instead on her mother.
“I’d have to check.” Still that faint hesitant tone.
Damnit. She wants me to beg. No. I won’t beg.
And then Diana thought of little Rita practicing the barrels on her ancient pony in the old arena back at the ranch.
For Rita’s sake…I might have to beg.
“I’d appreciate it if you could get back to me tomorrow,” Diana said. She deliberately let her voice waver on the word “tomorrow.”
Sarah arched one brow. “Still, it’s more than last year. Do you need a business loan against what I owe you? Your collateral’s good for that.” Sarah’s mouth quirked in one corner and she looked down, but not quickly enough to hide the predatory sharpening of her gaze.
She took the bait. Now for more delicate maneuvering. Diana shook her head. “That amount’s enough for business purposes.”
