Chapter 15 - The Corporate Envoy Arrives
On September 15th, a sleek black helicopter bearing the logo of Titan Global Defense landed in the open pasture near the ranch gates.
Stepping out of the aircraft was Victoria Vance—Richard's estranged younger sister, who had left Texas thirty years ago to build a career in D.C.
She wore a sharp ivory pantsuit, expensive designer sunglasses, and held a leather briefcase as she walked toward the homestead.
Richard stood on the porch steps, watching his sister approach with an expression of profound, silent grief.
"Victoria," Richard said flatly, not moving an inch to welcome her. "I see you finally found your way back to Texas."
Victoria removed her sunglasses, revealing sharp, cold eyes that mirrored her brother's steel determination.
"I didn't come here to play family reunion games, Richard," Victoria said, her tone professional and devoid of warmth.
"Titan Global holds the primary defense logistics contract for the Southwest sector."
"I personally drafted the eminent domain filing for the Secretary of Defense," she added, setting her briefcase on the porch railing.
"Sign the transfer papers today, Richard. Take the twelve million dollars, buy a penthouse in Austin, and let Emily raise her daughter in peace."
Richard looked at his sister, remembering the young girl who used to ride horses across these very fields before ambition consumed her.
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"Our father built this ranch to give this family an anchor in a world that lost its mind, Victoria," Richard said softly.
"You sold your anchor for a corner office in the Pentagon, but I'm keeping mine right here."
