Chapter 8 Seeing my bright smile , Ryder faltered , a hint of gentleness softening his usually stern features .
He reached for the box .
Then , his eyes darkened .
Anticipating his hesitation , I said , Uncle , I promise its not anything weird .
Its a Christmas gift that will make you happy .
Really , really happy .
I emphasized the last part .
Okay .
He took the box .
His gaze then fell to my exposed neck .
Hows the scratch ? Let me see .
He instinctively reached out .
I stepped back , my tone distant .
Much better .
Thank you for your concern , Uncle .
Ryders hand froze , the air growing colder .
To ease the tension , I started talking .
Uncle , I made some dumplings ; theyre in the refrigerator , on the second shelf .
I reorganized the medicine cabinet .
Pain relievers are on the left , ointments on the right .
Check the labels .
And I put the summer supplies on the top shelf of the large cabinet in the living room .
Ryder listened quietly , his gaze distant .
The shy girl who used to cling to his sleeve was gone , replaced by a composed young woman .
Seeing his complex expression , I asked , Uncle , were you 11:37 1.1 % Menu < Chapter 8 listening ? After a pause , Ryder said , Yes .
Its Christmas Eve tomorrow .
Come with me to the bases party .
I was stunned .
The annual base party was a major event ; everyone brought their families .
For six years , Ryder had never taken me .
And now , as I was leaving , he wanted me to go ? A whirlwind of emotions flooded me .
After a moments hesitation , I said , Okay .
The next day , Christmas Eve .
The Southern Command auditorium glittered , alive with energy .
A banner proclaimed : * Steel Will Forges the Soul of a Soldier ; Christmas Celebration for Family Reunion .
* As we entered , the new recruits saluted .
A brave one asked , Colonel Landon , is this your wife ? Im Ryder Landons niece , I answered before Ryder could speak .
Ryders dark eyes deepened .
He opened his mouth , then closed it , seemingly speechless .
A booming voice announced , Colonel Landon , its time for your award ceremony .
Ryder went on stage .
From the audience , I watched him receive his award from Autumn Sears , 11:37 Menu < Chapter 8 They looked incredibly well suited he , strong and commanding ; she , graceful and serene .
They would make a wonderful couple , a great story for the base .
And that made me feel at peace .
Three hours later , the party ended .
As I prepared to leave with Ryder for dinner , Autumn Sears approached , her smile bright .
Ryder , didnt you request to work the night shift with me so everyone could enjoy the holiday ? Ryder stiffened , remembering .
His lips tightened into a thin line .
Autumn turned to me , apologetic .
Claire , Im sorry .
Its our duty .
I hope you understand .
I offered a strained smile .

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Yes , I understand .
Ryder looked at me , patting my head .
Let me take you home first , then Ill go to work .
No need , Uncle .
Its almost midnight ; you wont have time to change shifts .
I can go back alone .
I turned and left .
Under the brilliant fireworks , Ryder watched me go , a strange unease rising within him .
Something felt like it was slipping from his grasp .
He called out , Claire , dont stay up too late .
Get some sleep .
Were going to dads tomorrow .
I turned , my smile bright .
Okay .
Ryders agitation eased slightly .
He left with Autumn .
I turned towards the base housing .
The soft moonlight bathed me .
I looked up at the full moon .
11:37 < Chapter 8 Menu A bitter smile touched my lips .
Tonight should have been a night of reunion .
Back in my decorated but empty apartment , I felt a momentary pang of sadness but quickly recovered .
I ate dinner alone , then , as usual , prepared gifts for visitors something Ryder didnt understand .
Then , I wrote a letter to General Ryder .
Dad , this is probably the last time Ill address you as your daughter in law .
Thank you for your kindness .
Our marriage was unfair to Ryder ; he doesnt love me , and I wont force him .
After I leave , please dont punish him anymore .
I wish you good health and happiness .
* As I finished , fireworks exploded outside , illuminating the night .
Tears welled up , spilling down my cheeks .
I smiled .
Claire Montgomery , Happy Christmas .
This new year , youll have a new beginning .
Six hours later .
Six in the morning .
I packed my bags , locked the door , and got into the car heading to Quantico .
The rising sun broke through the clouds , illuminating my face with a promise of new life .
Meanwhile , Ryder finished his shift and drove home in his jeep .
At the first intersection of the base housing , our vehicles met .
I saw his familiar face .
But as his eyes met mine , I rolled up my window .
Ryder , it was goodbye .
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