Chapter 6 - The Discipline of a Soldier
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"Ladies and gentlemen," General Vance announced calmly to the room, "the formal program is paused. Please direct any questions to our public affairs officer."
He turned back to me, his stern face softening slightly. "Colonel Carter, may I escort you and your son to the private reception room?"
"Yes, sir," I replied quietly.
I held Liam tightly against my chest and turned toward the exit. As we walked past my parents, my mother reached out a trembling hand, her fingers barely grazing the sleeve of my uniform.
"Emily... please..." she sobbed softly.
I pulled away gently without breaking my stride.
We entered the small, quiet reception office down the corridor. The heavy door closed behind us, shutting out the noise of the ballroom. I set Liam down in a plush leather armchair. Someone brought him a small cup of juice and an ice pack for his cheek.
General Vance stepped inside, closing the door halfway.
"Colonel, I apologize for the dramatic entrance," Vance said quietly. "We intended to present your commendation quietly, but when my advance team reported what your sister did in that ballroom..."
"You don't need to apologize, General," I said, catching my breath.
He studied my face for a long moment. "I’ve been in the Army for thirty-seven years, Colonel. I’ve seen soldiers endure horrors on the battlefield. But watching you hold your composure after that woman struck your child—that was one of the most remarkable displays of discipline I have ever seen."
May you like
A lump formed in my throat, but I swallowed it down. "Thank you, sir."
"Your sister's security clearance is revoked immediately," Vance added firmly. "And she will never be permitted near another government contract for as long as I live."
