Chapter 6 - The Hatch Slams Open
Before the trembling MP could open his mouth to speak, a heavy, metallic reverberation echoed across the water.
HIGH ABOVE THEM, on the main deck of the USS Sterett, a heavy steel watertight hatch slammed open against the gray superstructure. The sharp, double-clap of steel on steel rang out like a gunshot over the pier, instantly cutting through the low murmur of the crowd.
At the top of the gangway appeared a One-Star Admiral, dressed in his full, immaculate Service Dress Blue uniform, gold braid gleaming on his sleeves, his chest covered in rows of military decorations. Trailing immediately behind him were three senior command officers—a Navy Captain, a Commander, and an executive officer carrying secure briefing folders.
The Admiral had been descending toward the pier for the start of the Memorial Day ceremony, but as his boots reached the top step of the gangway, his eyes caught the commotion at the base of the ramp.
He looked down.
He saw the crowd of junior sailors, the nervous MP, and Brandon holding Cassie’s arm.
Then, his gaze locked directly onto Cassie Owens.
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The Admiral stopped dead in his tracks.
His expression hardened instantly, the casual ceremonial demeanor vanishing into a look of severe, high-alert intensity. Without a word to the officers behind him, the Admiral began descending the gangway, his heavy dress shoes clicking rapidly against the metal steps as he moved down the ramp with urgent speed.
