Chapter 1 - The General's Respect
The sound of my mother’s crystal glass shattering against the marble floor echoed like a gunshot through the silent ballroom.
General Vance held his salute for a long, deliberate moment. A man with three stars on his collar didn't salute just anyone. He lowered his hand and stepped forward, his piercing gaze sweeping over the crowd before landing on my cousin, Chloe, who was still clutching the torn fabric of my dress.
"Major Elara Sterling," General Vance’s voice boomed, carrying the weight of absolute authority. "It is an honor to finally meet you in person. The President sends his regards, and his profound gratitude for your actions in the Korengal Valley."
Whispers erupted like wildfire. Major? The President?
My uncle Arthur’s mocking smirk melted into a mask of pale confusion. "General, there must be some mistake," Arthur stammered, stepping forward. "Elara was dishonorably discharged. She’s a disgrace to our family name—"
"Quiet, Arthur," Vance snapped, his tone laced with venom. "Your niece wasn't discharged. She was classified. Her unit was operating in a black zone. When their convoy was ambushed, Major Sterling held the line alone, sustaining third-degree burns while saving twelve of my best men. She was awarded the Silver Star and the Purple Heart. She’s a goddamn national hero."
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I didn't look at the General. I looked at my mother. The color had completely drained from her heavily contoured face. I pulled my torn dress up, turning my back on them, but not before delivering my first strike.
"I'll see you in the boardroom on Monday, Arthur," I said smoothly. "Have your lawyers ready."
