Chapter 6 - The Family Performance
Vivian entered the hall with Natalie at her side.
She greeted guests enthusiastically, introducing Natalie as her successful daughter. Claire followed several steps behind.
“This is Natalie,” Vivian told a retired admiral. “She works closely with defense leadership.”
Then, almost as an afterthought, she gestured toward Claire.
“And this is Claire. She is still in the military.”
The admiral looked at Claire’s insignia.
“Still in the military?” he repeated. “Colonel Hart appears to be doing rather well.”
Vivian blinked.
Natalie quickly changed the subject.
Throughout the evening, the same pattern continued. Vivian praised Natalie’s career, her apartment, her social connections and her expensive education.
When guests asked Claire about her work, Vivian answered for her.
“She cannot discuss anything. Claire has always loved secrets.”
Some people laughed politely.
Others noticed Claire’s medals and watched her with curiosity.
Claire remained composed, but each comment reopened an old wound.
She remembered birthdays when Vivian had forgotten to call. She remembered returning from a dangerous deployment and discovering that her mother had converted her childhood bedroom into a dressing room for Natalie.
She remembered sending money home after her father’s death because Vivian claimed she was struggling.
Months later, Claire learned Vivian had used part of it to finance Natalie’s luxury vacation.
Claire had forgiven them many times.
But forgiveness had not made them kinder.
Near the center of the ballroom, Natalie accepted a glass of champagne and nodded toward a group of young officers.
“Let us have some fun.”
Vivian understood immediately.
She approached Claire with the confident smile of someone certain the room would support her.
“Claire,” she said loudly, “Natalie tells me soldiers have special little nicknames.”
Several guests turned to listen.
Claire’s expression changed slightly.
“Call signs,” Natalie said.
Vivian leaned closer.
“Go on, princess. Tell everyone yours.”
Claire looked around the room.
Some guests were amused.
May you like
Several officers had stopped speaking.
At the far end of the hall, General Reed had finally seen her.
