“I stopped trying,” I said.
Then Nathan reached into his jacket and removed his phone. “Admiral, before I arrived tonight, Caroline asked me something strange. She wanted to know whether my position could help her father’s company secure a defense supply contract.”
My father turned pale.
That was when the dinner became something entirely different.
Dad’s company had pursued military-related contracts for years. He had mocked my service at every holiday while quietly encouraging Caroline to marry someone who could give him access.
Nathan continued, “She said the family would finally have someone useful in uniform.”
My mother covered her mouth.
Dad whispered, “Caroline…”
Panic filled Caroline’s eyes. “I was trying to help the family!”
I looked at her engagement ring, then at Nathan’s stunned expression.
“No,” I said quietly. “You were trying to sell his service and my silence.”
At that moment, my phone vibrated.
A message from my aide appeared on the screen.
Ma’am, ethics office confirmed receipt. Do you want the Hartwell file reviewed now?
I turned the phone toward my father.
His knees nearly gave way.
Part 3
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