“…that I would stand in for him when he couldn’t be here. And a promise made to a soldier is a promise kept.”
Lily’s eyes widened, her small face reflecting a mixture of disbelief and awe. The cruelty of Brenda’s words seemed to dissipate as the presence of the General and the soldiers transformed the room into a space of profound reverence.
General Sterling continued, “Your dad was a hero, Lily. He spoke of you all the time. He told us how much he loved his daughter—the bravest princess he ever knew.” As he spoke, he extended his hand, and Lily placed her tiny hand in his, the fragility of her fingers contrasting with the strength of his grip.
