Unexpected Inheritance

18

The night had done wonders. Ben couldn't shake the thought of Miranda's persistence and how he'd finally broken free from the barriers he'd put up. But as he sat with that realization, he also recognized something else. He'd promised her that treehouse—a dream she'd shared with him for a while now—and he hadn't followed through. He needed to fix that.

So, early one morning, Ben and Tuck piled into the truck and headed to the hardware store to get the supplies. Ben had a vision in mind, and Tuck was all in, eager to help. They picked out wood, nails, paint—everything they'd need to make it something special.

By the time Miranda returned from running errands, she could see the structure of something going up in the backyard. She paused at the edge of the yard, a little curious about the construction.

"What's going on here?" she called out, her eyes scanning the progress.

Ben, with a grin on his face, looked up from the ladder. "Your treehouse,"

Miranda's heart warmed. "My treehouse?" She hadn't expected him to remember, let alone start building it. She walked over, her eyes sparkling as she took in the effort that was already underway.

"Yeah," he replied. "Figured you'd like a space of your own. We've got the room, and it's about time I made good on my promises."

Tuck added, "It's gonna be the best one yet, Mom."

Miranda shook her head, smiling.

"Thank you," she said softly. Ben gave her a wink.

"Anything for you."

It took months of hard work and late nights, but finally, the treehouse was finished. The structure stood proudly in the backyard—a rustic, lovingly crafted hideaway built with every ounce of care by Ben and Tuck.

On the day of the big reveal, Tuck was practically buzzing with excitement. "Mom, come on," he said, tugging gently at Miranda's hand as he guided her out of the house. Before she could protest, he quickly wrapped a soft blindfold around her eyes.

Tuck carefully guided her across the yard, making sure she didn't stumble, leading her towards the treehouse.

"You're almost there," he said, his voice full of pride.

Finally, Tuck stopped her and turned her so she was facing the treehouse. He gave her a moment to breathe.

"Alright, Mom. You can look now."

Miranda pulled off the blindfold, her eyes squinting as she took in the sight before her. The treehouse sat nestled in the branches, the sun shining off the freshly painted walls. It was perfect—cozy, with a little porch, a window with curtains, and even a tiny set of stairs leading up to it.

Miranda gasped, her heart swelling with emotion. "You guys..."

Ben stepped forward, his hands in his pockets, a proud glint in his eye. "It's all yours," he said, the warmth in his voice undeniable. "You wanted a place to escape, so we built it."

Tuck grinned. "It's got everything—just like you said. It's your own space."

Miranda's chest tightened with a mix of pride, gratitude, and love. "I can't believe you did all this." She looked up at Ben. "Helps to marry a handyman"

Ben shrugged, though there was a softness to his expression. "Damn straight"

Miranda smiled, her heart full. "I love you both."

"I love you too, Mom," Tuck said, and she pulled him into a hug.

Ben kissed her cheek, whispering, "Welcome to your new favorite spot."