"Ms. Hale performed outstandingly in this undercover mission. After careful consideration, the Force has decided to appoint Serene as Captain."
Thunderous applause filled the hall. Ivan watched as Serene stepped onto the stage step by step.
It was the first time in a long while he had seen that kind of confidence on her face again.
"Thank you for the recognition," she said.
She paused for a moment. Her eyes swept across Ivan sitting below.
He listened as she gave her thanks. Without him, she should have been standing there a long time ago, receiving all the praise and honor.
Ivan slowly stood up. He carefully held the bouquet in his hands, planning to congratulate her after she came down.
But then he watched, stunned, as she stayed on the stage.
She pulled out a stack of papers.
S
