Chapter 24 - Evening on the Mountain
The sun dipped behind the jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains, casting a brilliant, fiery glow across the peaceful neighborhood.
The house was quiet. Little Tristan had finally worn himself out after a long day of gardening and had fallen fast asleep in his crib upstairs.
Elizabeth and I sat out on the back patio, sharing a quiet glass of sparkling cider as the cool mountain breeze rustled the leaves of the oak and maple trees overhead.
"Nationwide," Elizabeth murmured with a soft, proud smile, looking out toward the horizon. "Your father would have been terrified of how powerful your influence has become."
"My father measured power in corporate titles and square footage," I replied, leaning back in my chair and looking up at the glittering expanse of stars overhead. "Tristan taught me that real power is measured by how many people you pull up when they fall."
May you like
Elizabeth raised her glass toward mine in a silent toast. "To the best damn Major this family has ever produced."
I clinked my glass against hers, feeling an overwhelming sense of peace settle deep into my soul.
