Chapter 15 - The Commander's Peace
That evening, as the sun dipped beneath the horizon, painting the Tennessee sky in deep shades of gold, crimson, and violet.
The guests had departed, leaving the estate quiet and peaceful.
I walked down to the edge of the wooden lake dock, taking off my uniform dress shoes, letting the cool lake water lap against my feet.
Caroline walked down the dock planks, holding two mugs of hot cocoa, and sat beside me, wrapping a warm blanket around our shoulders.
"Do you think Dad is watching us?" Caroline asked softly, looking out at the golden reflection on the water.
"I know he is," I smiled, putting my arm around my sister's shoulder. "He'd be proud of you, Caroline."
"He'd be prouder of you, Commander," Caroline grinned, resting her head against my shoulder.
I took a slow, deep breath of the fresh evening air, feeling a profound, unshakeable sense of peace wash over my soul.
The lies had been shattered.
The stolen legacy had been reclaimed.
My family's true honor had been restored forever.
I looked up at the first evening star shining brightly over the lake, holding my sister close.
May you like
The gate was locked to the past—and the future was finally ours.
THE END
