“Morning, Captain,” he said. “Figured you’d need some basics if you’re staying a while. Hammer, nails, flashlight. Nothing fancy, but it’ll keep the place standing.”

“Thanks,” I said, stepping aside. “Come on in.”

Jack placed the belt on the counter and gave the cabin a quick scan. The way vets do when they walk into a new space, checking exits, windows, angles. Habit dies hard.

“Your dad told me not to spill too much,” he said, lowering himself into a chair. “But he wanted you to know this land’s not just a cabin by the lake. He said it could change your future if you handle it right.”

I nodded.

“I found the box and the survey.”

Jack gave a slow grin.

“Good. Then you already know. Most people out here think this land’s just pretty scenery. But your Grandma Rose, hell, she was smarter than the geologists I worked with overseas. She knew exactly what was under our boots.”

“You knew Rose?” I asked, surprised.

He chuckled.