Chapter 9 - THE VERDICT OF THE DECK
The Commander walked over to the security vehicle, her boots clicking softly against the deck. She stopped two feet from her cuffed sister, looking down at her with a heavy, sorrowful calm.
"Your catering business, your reputation, your freedom... you risked all of it today because you couldn't stand seeing me succeed," the Commander said softly, her voice low enough so only Chloe could hear. "You thought you were coming here to humble me."
"I was wrong," Chloe sobbed, her shoulders shaking violently. "I'm sorry. I was so angry... you never called me back..."
"I was preparing a fleet for deployment, Chloe," the Commander replied, her gray eyes steady and cold. "My duty is to the sailors under my command and the security of this nation. I don't have the luxury of playing your emotional games."
The security officer opened the rear door of the transport vehicle, gesturing for Chloe to slide inside.
"What's going to happen to me?" Chloe asked, her voice cracking with pure terror.
"You will be processed by Federal Marshals," the Commander stated plainly. "You will face federal charges for assault on a military officer, espionage-level destruction of classified material, and trespassing on a restricted defense installation. Your lawyers won't be able to pull strings here, Chloe. The Navy takes its security seriously."
Chloe stared at her sister, realizing finally that no amount of tears, manipulation, or family history could undo what she had done in a single moment of petty rage.
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"Get in," the security officer commanded firmly.
With a muffled sob, Chloe ducked her head and slid into the dark back seat of the military police cruiser. The heavy door slammed shut with a solid, echoing thud, sealing her inside behind reinforced security glass.
