“But Daniel runs private defense contracts worth millions.

You can’t expect the town’s leaders to notice routine paperwork ribbons when your brother was born for real command.”

“Daniel is a reserve major,” I said evenly, careful with the difference in rank.

“The reserve unit is held to the same standards.”

“Your brother carries the real weight of keeping this family’s standing intact,” Margaret said, her voice sliding into the soft, breathless scolding she used whenever Daniel’s name came up.

“You have your regular army pay, Emily.