An Arrogant Young Shooter Mocked An Old Woman, Until She Revealed Her True Identity
Previously: When a smug young champion mocked 65-year-old Helen at a shooting range, he thought it was an easy win. But her name on the registration sheet changed everything.
The Legend Reborn
Harold’s reaction sent a wave of uneasy murmurs through the viewing gallery. He pushed past the security barrier, his eyes locked on Helen.
"Helen Vance..."
Harold breathed, his voice barely audible over the hum of the ventilation system.
"You’re 'The Ghost.' The tactical instructor who trained the elite forces three decades ago."
The crowd went silent. Cody’s smug grin faltered, replaced by a look of confusion.
"Who cares about some old instructor?"
Cody scoffed, trying to regain his composure.
"That was thirty years ago. The game has changed, old lady. You got lucky on a stationary target. Let’s see how you do under real pressure."
Cody was the son of Arthur Sterling, the wealthy owner of the range and a former champion himself. For years, the Sterling family had dominated the local circuit, building an empire on the claim that Arthur was the greatest marksman of his generation. But Harold knew the truth.
"She didn't get lucky, Cody,"
Harold warned, his voice shaking.
"Your father only won his first championship because Helen suddenly vanished from the circuit. She was undefeated."
Cody's face flushed with anger. He couldn't stand the thought of his family's legacy being overshadowed by a woman old enough to be his grandmother. Desperate to prove his superiority, Cody stepped forward, pointing to the advanced tactical simulation course at the far end of the facility.
"If you're really the legend they say you are, prove it,"
Cody challenged, his voice dripping with venom.
"A dual-target speed run. If I win, you pack your bags and never show your face here again."
Helen looked at the young man, seeing the same arrogant spark that had once ruined her career. Thirty years ago, Arthur Sterling had sabotaged her gear, causing a catastrophic misfire that injured her hand and forced her into early retirement. She had stayed away to protect her family, but now, seeing the same cruelty in his son, she knew it was time to finish what was started.
"I accept,"
Helen said quietly.
”She had stayed away to protect her family, but now, seeing the same cruelty in his son, she knew it was time to finish what was started."…