"Get up and come with me before more people see this."
"I'll take you to the hospital to see your grandfather."
The drugs were still in my system. My head swam, my vision blurring at the edges. But I only lifted the medal higher.
I called out again and again until finally, a sentry on duty took notice.
He jogged over to assess the situation.
The moment his gaze fell on the First-Class Service Medal in my hands, his entire demeanor shifted. His posture straightened, his expression turning grave and respectful.
He snapped a crisp military salute.
"Please wait here. I'll report to the Commander immediately."
Before long, he returned at a brisk pace, several people following behind him. Their faces were kind, their eyes warm.
The man at the front stepped forward and placed a hand on my shoulder.
"Not bad. You've got your grandfather's spirit."
Seeing my confusion, he smiled.
"You don't remember me, but I remember you. When you were little, I used to hold you in my arms. Bought you lollipops."
He gestured to the men behind him.
"These uncles here—they all served under your grandfather."
"I'm your Uncle Duncan Mercer. Come to think of it, it's been a while since I've seen the old man. We were just saying we should pay him a visit."
His smile faltered.
"Come inside. Tell us everything—what happened?"
They surrounded me protectively as we walked.
Someone noticed Charles and, learning he was my husband, invited him to follow.
"No," I said. "He won't be for much longer."
The men exchanged glances but didn't press further.
Charles opened his mouth to speak. His eyes reddened. But when he saw the cold indifference in my gaze, he could only stand there, lost and alone.
As we walked, I answered their questions one by one.
When they asked about my grandfather's condition, I couldn't hold it together any longer. My knees buckled, and I collapsed to the ground.
"Please, Commander—I'm begging you to seek justice for my grandfather."
"He's gone."
All the grief I had been holding back finally shattered.
I recounted everything my grandfather and I had endured these past days, leaving nothing out.