Claire read the first page.
Then the second.
Then she looked up.
"You're offering to buy the bull and gain rights to my land?"
The representative smiled politely.
"We see it as a mutually beneficial opportunity."
Claire glanced toward Wade.
"Of course you do."
Wade folded his arms.
"Claire, you've been struggling with this ranch since your grandfather died."
"I know my finances."
"Then you know you can't keep doing things the old way."
She looked toward the farmhouse.
"Maybe."
The representative continued.
"The proposed investment would allow you to improve your facilities, eliminate certain debts, and potentially remain involved in managing the property."
Claire frowned.
"Potentially?"
He hesitated.
"Subject to the final operating agreement."
She closed the folder.
"No."
Wade blinked.
"Excuse me?"
"No."
The representative leaned forward.
"Perhaps you should review the financial terms more carefully."
"I have."
Wade stepped closer.
"Claire, this is a serious offer."
"So is my answer."
His smile disappeared.
"You're throwing away an opportunity most ranchers would beg for."
Claire looked directly at him.
"Then offer it to one of them."
Wade stared.
The representative shifted uncomfortably.
"Perhaps we should give her time."
But Wade wasn't interested in waiting.
He pointed toward the northern pasture.
"That bull was nearly dead when you bought him."
Claire remained silent.
"Now suddenly everybody thinks he's some kind of miracle."
"He's not a miracle."
"Then don't pretend he is."
"I haven't."
Wade stepped closer.
"Your grandfather had a respectable bloodline. I'll give him that. But he never understood how to turn it into real money."
Claire's expression hardened.
"My grandfather kept this ranch alive for fifty years."
Wade shrugged.
"And what did he leave you? An old barn, worn fences, and a pile of bills."
The ranch hand took a step forward.
Claire raised one hand to stop him.
She looked directly at Wade.
"He left me land."
Wade smirked.
"He left you problems."
Claire's voice remained steady.
"He left me the knowledge to deal with them."
The two men stood silently.
Then Wade laughed bitterly.
"Knowledge won't save you when the bank comes calling."
Claire handed the portfolio back.
"Neither will a deal that takes control of my ranch."
Wade's face reddened.
For a moment, he looked as though he might shout.
Instead, he turned toward his truck.
"This is your last chance."
Claire smiled without humor.
"You said that at the auction."
He stopped.
She continued.