“And when the restrictions were lifted, you did not answer my calls.”

Michael looked from me to Hayes, his face flushing red beneath his stiff collar.

“This is my promotion night,” Michael muttered, his fists clenching at his sides.

“We came here to celebrate my assignment.”

“Your assignment is to a supply depot in San Diego, Commander,” Hayes said without looking at him.

“Your sister’s assignment was survival.”

The silence returned, heavier this time.

I could smell the damp salt air coming through the open terrace doors.

The sea breeze stirred the heavy velvet curtains behind the stage.

Helen put her hand on Michael’s arm, her fingers digging into his wool sleeve.

She took a deep, shuddering breath and smoothed her silk dress.

The panic in her eyes lasted only a second before her face hardened into a practiced, elegant smile.

“Of course,” Helen said, her voice rising so the surrounding tables could hear.

She looked around the room, nodding at the wives of the admirals.

“We had to keep it quiet,” she said.

“As a mother, you understand the need for absolute discretion when your child is in such danger.”