Chairs scraped against the pavement as the entire crowd rose together.
I stood beside my family while the military band prepared to begin.
On the stage, Jason turned toward the audience with confidence—until his eyes found mine.
For one brief second, his whole expression shifted.
Because he saw the briefcase in my hand.
And he knew exactly what it was.
The color left his face so fast that even Madison noticed.
Then the announcer returned to the microphone holding another folder.
“Before the transfer of command begins,” he said, “we would also like to acknowledge the officer chosen to assume leadership responsibilities after Colonel Turner’s departure.”
The crowd gave a polite round of applause.
Jason stood completely still.
My sister looked at him, confused.
And then every soldier on that parade field slowly turned in my direction as the announcer opened the folder and spoke my name into the microphone.
