CHAPTER 1: "THAT'S A LIE"
Emily Parker hated being the center of attention.
She was the kind of kid who sat quietly in the back of the classroom and finished her work without saying much.
So when Mrs. Wilson announced that everyone would introduce their parents' jobs, Emily immediately wished she could disappear.
One by one, the students stood up.
"My mom's a nurse."
"My dad owns a car dealership."
"My parents are accountants."
The usual stuff.
Then it was Emily's turn.
She slowly stood.
"My dad is a four-star general."
The room went silent.
For about two seconds.
Then laughter exploded across the classroom.
"No way."
"She's making that up."
"My uncle's in the Army and he's not even close to that."
Emily felt her face turn red.
Mrs. Wilson forced a smile.
"A four-star general?"
"Yes, ma'am."
The teacher folded her arms.
"Emily, do you understand how important that rank is?"
"Yes."
"And you're saying that's your father?"
Emily nodded.
The teacher sighed.
"Sweetheart, there's no reason to tell stories."
"I'm not telling stories."
"Emily."
The teacher's voice became firmer.
"Enough."
The laughter grew louder.
Emily looked around the room.
Nobody believed her.
Not one person.
Mrs. Wilson pointed toward the front of the class.
"I'd like you to apologize for lying."
The little girl froze.
An apology?
For telling the truth?
Tears filled her eyes as she slowly walked toward the whiteboard.
Then suddenly...
SCREECH.
The sound of tires echoed outside.
Several students rushed to the windows.
Three black SUVs had just pulled into the school parking lot.
And they weren't alone.
May you like
Uniformed military officers were stepping out.
Heading straight for the building.
