Chapter 11 - The Media Storm
By Monday afternoon, the story had set the global news cycle on fire. Social media platforms were dominated by short clips of the video footage leaked from the Coast Guard report. The trending headline across every major news network read: Billionaire Forced Into Ocean Saved By 12-Year-Old Ice Cream Seller.
News trucks lined the streets near Harbor Island Park, attempting to get an interview with Mateo Cruz. However, Rafael kept his son away from the flashing cameras, insisting that Mateo focus on his schoolwork.
From his hospital room, Michael Vance released an official video statement to his shareholders and the public. Dressed in a simple hospital gown but speaking with immovable authority, he addressed the world.
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"What happened aboard my vessel was a crime of pure greed," Michael stated firmly to the camera. "I am alive today because of the courage, alertness, and unwavering bravery of young Mateo Cruz and his father, Rafael. While adults dismissed a child's voice, Mateo refused to give up. He proved that true strength isn't measured by wealth—it's measured by doing what is right when no one else will listen."
Vance Aerospace stock, which had plummeted during early morning trading, suddenly experienced the largest single-day surge in company history as investors rallied behind Michael's survival and leadership.
