My father invited me to a prestigious military gala for one reason: to embarrass the daughter he had spent years calling the family disappointment.
“I can see that. Why?”
“Because I’m in the Army.”
His expression hardened.
“Claire, don’t start. There are generals here tonight. People who have actually accomplished something.”
Then a voice came from behind him.
“Colonel Bennett.”
Dad froze.
Four-star General William Harrington stood several feet away.
Dad recognized him immediately. “General, sir, it’s an honor.”
The general barely glanced at him.
“Glad you made it, Colonel.”
“Thank you, General.”
He smiled at me. “We weren’t going to begin without you.”
Dad stared between us.
“Without... Claire?”
An event coordinator approached. “Colonel, we’re ready whenever you are.”
Dad suddenly grabbed my arm.
