I wipe the tears from my cheeks, not wanting the handsome cowboy to ever know he got the best of me. I was so excited when we landed. I might have built up in my head the idea that this was a fresh start. I figured no one would know me here. That I wouldn’t have to worry about them having preconceived notions because I’m a princess.
It’s a silly title. Nothing more really. When people find out about it, they start building an idea of who I am before they can get to know me. The sad truth is I’m not sure if I even know who I am at this point. I thought this trip would help me find out.
I’ve been kept in this pretty box for so long and protected. My father shielded me from so much of the world that I know I might be ignorant to some things, but I do know one thing: you don’t have to be rude to people. I suppose I shouldn’t tell other people how to speak either.
I huff out a breath, and my stomach lets out another growl. I’d been lying when I said I wasn’t hungry. I wanted to get away from Sterling as fast as possible. He sent me on an emotional rollercoaster the second I landed that ended with me wanting to cry.
At first, I thought he might be sweet and charming, but it took a turn for the worse rather quickly. He clearly doesn't want me here. His dislike for me is evident. Too bad for him because I’m staying. I’d rather be here than back home cooped up and getting married off soon. This place is giant. It will be easy enough for me to avoid him. I’ll start with his little party. If he doesn’t like me, surely none of his friends will either. Best if I keep to myself.
“Maria?” Cam calls through the door before she knocks.
I jump up, rushing over to the mirror to make sure my face isn’t blotchy from crying. I force a grateful smile onto my lips before I open the door.
“This place is wonderful.” I beam at her. Her eyes trace over my face, and I can tell she’s not buying it. She doesn’t ask me about it, which I’m grateful for.
“You missed dinner, but I saved you a plate.” She grabs my hand, pulling me from the room. “I’m having some things brought over for you.”
“Things?”
“Clothes and such. I’m going to get you all worked out so you don’t have to worry about anything.”
“Oh, thank you. You’re being so kind.”
“It’s the least I can do, Maria. Don’t think I don’t know about your philanthropist ways.” I snort a laugh.
“You make that sound dirty.” I shake my head. “I’m no philanthropist. I’m doing what I’m supposed to.” When I turned sixteen I’d been informed of my mother’s wishes and the inheritance I’d been left by her.
I knew my mama came from money. But I had no idea how wealthy she actually was. I'd almost choked when they said I’d been left with 500 million dollars. Half of which I had to divide out to charities of my own choosing.
There weren’t many more stipulations. I could even start a charity on my own in the future if I wanted to and fund it. At times it’s been rather overwhelming thinking about it all. Truthfully, it’s been my only saving grace with being locked away. It can keep me rather busy at times.
“You and I know it’s more than that.”
“I’m only trying to make my mama proud. She wanted me to do something good, and that’s what I’m going to do.”
I know that money will make a difference in other people’s lives. My eyes mist over again. What is wrong with me? It’s days like these I miss her more than ever. I often think about what advice she would have given me. Then again, if she were here, I wouldn’t be standing on the Justice Ranch. Glorianna would never have been my sister at all.
“I know you are because you already have been. Now let’s feed you.” We enter into the massive kitchen that looks like it was built to feed a small army. “What would you like to drink?”
“Water is fine.” She motions for me to sit at one of the chairs at the giant kitchen island. She grabs my plate and puts it in front of me.
“Thank you.” I stare down at the steak, my stomach turning. It smells good, but it could also kill me.
“The princess doesn’t eat cows. They're bad for the environment.” I jerk my head to the left to see Sterling standing there. Where the heck did he come from? I swallow. Why are the handsome ones always jerks?
“Are you a vegetarian?” Cam asks. I shake my head no.