Chapter 12 - THE SECOND OFFER
Three months later, the independent appraisal came back.
Value:
$3.35 million.
Why higher?
Commercial corridor plans had advanced.
The wetlands reduced buildable acreage but increased conservation-credit value.
Blue Oak raised its offer:
$3.45 million.
Independent trustee recommended acceptance with:
wetlands preservation easement,
minimum escrow protections,
direct funding into Lily’s trust.
Natalie agreed.
The land sold.
Evelyn was furious.
“You delayed everything and still sold it.”
Natalie answered:
“Yes.”
“So what was all this for?”
Natalie looked at her.
May you like
“For the difference between choosing and being forced.”
That was the heart of it.
