Chapter 3 - The Unraveling of the Prestons
Victoria Preston’s jaw dropped open so wide her pearl necklace nearly touched her chest. She grabbed Julian’s arm, her fingers digging into his sleeve with sudden, frantic terror.
"A... a Medal of Honor?" Victoria stammered, stepping toward the center aisle. "Arthur... Mr. Vance, why didn't you mention any of this when we discussed the wedding arrangements? Julian was under immense pressure at the firm, and we simply thought—"
"You thought he was worthless because his hands were dirty," I interrupted, stepping in front of my father. My voice was calm, razor-sharp, and unyielding. "You looked at his truck, his clothes, and his honesty, and you treated him like trash."
Julian took an eager step toward me, reaching his hands out with a frantic, pleading smile. "Clara, babe... listen to me. I was stressed! The board meeting this morning was overwhelming, and I let my frustration get the better of me. You know I love you! We can finish the ceremony right now! Father Thomas is still standing right here!"
Julian turned toward the community center priest, gesturing wildly. "Father, hand us the rings! We’re ready to proceed!"
"Step away from the bride," Colonel Davis commanded, stepping between Julian and the altar. Two armed military police officers in dress uniform immediately took position behind the Colonel, their gaze cold and immovable.
"This is ridiculous!" Victoria shrieked, her voice turning shrill as panic set in. "Julian is a director at Apex Defense Technologies! He handles major defense contracts with your division! You can't treat him like this!"
Colonel Davis turned his head slowly, looking Julian up and down with absolute contempt.
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"Julian Preston from Apex Defense?" Davis asked coldly. "Thank you for reminding me. The Pentagon’s procurement board meets tomorrow morning at 0800 to finalize the supplier vetting for the national logistics contract. I am the presiding officer of that committee."
Julian’s face drained of every ounce of color. His knees buckled slightly as the gravity of what he had just done crashed over him.
