“It was Dad’s property,” I said evenly. “And he gave it to me. He knew what you’d do if you got your hands on it. Sell it to the highest bidder, tear apart the land he and Rose swore to protect.”
Megan slammed her palm on the table.
“You don’t get it. This money could change everything. Our lives, our children’s lives. And you’re wasting it on some charity fantasy.”
I leaned forward, voice low and steady.
“Not a fantasy. A foundation. The Whitmore Veterans and Women Foundation. This land will build something lasting, something that helps people instead of lining your pockets.”
Mom gasped softly.
“A foundation?”
I looked at her.
“Yes. Housing, training, support for veterans and women left behind by families like ours. Dad believed in it. He prepared for it. And I’m making it real.”
Megan’s laugh was sharp, almost manic.
“You’re insane. Giving away millions to strangers when your own family needs it.”
I locked eyes with her.
“Family? The one who mocked me as a stinking woman. The one who kicked me out of Mom’s house like I was nothing. That family.”
Her jaw tightened. For once, she didn’t have a quick comeback.
I turned to Mom.