Page 94 of The Commander

“Oh!” Mom lets out a surprised cry. “Hello.”

She stands back and we walk in.

“Mom, this is Noah. Noah, my brother Ted.”

“How do you do, ma’am?” Noah says and shakes Ted’s hand.

“Yes, lovely. Ah, come on in. Quinn, you didn’t tell us you were bringing someone.”

Not just someone.

Dad jogs down the stairs, and there’s already thunder in his eyes.

“Colonel,” Noah says, standing up straight and saluting him.

“Captain Jenkins,” Dad says, returning the salute and glancing at me in question. His eyes shift to the minimal space between us, where Noah has his hand on my back.

“I’ll pour some drinks.” Ted winks at me while I try not to throw up and walks into the living area.

“Yes, let’s go and sit down.” Mom pats Dad’s arm.

He doesn’t move.

Shit, shit, shit.

“Dad—”

“Let’s go into my study.” He glances at Noah, who nods.

Noah gives my hand a squeeze, and we follow my father, closing the study door behind us.

Dad turns as he reaches the desk and crosses his arms. “What’s going on?”

“I—”

“I asked Quinn to marry me, and she said yes.” Noah says firmly.

Silence.

“She will be my wife. I hope you’ll respect our decision. No lines were crossed while I was enlisted or her CO.”

Dad’s cheeks turn ruddy as he looks between me and Noah. My heart is thumping like crazy, and there’s a big chance I might have a heart attack.

“Is that right?”

“Yes.” I nod. “I love him. I am marrying him.” I hold up my ring.

“You are both clearly aware how this will affect Quinn’s career, her reputation?”

My brows shoot up. Is he serious?

My career? As if he cares?

Noah stiffens beside me, but I turn my already raised hand to stop my father saying another word.

“What did you just say?” I demand.

“We’ve discussed this...and him,” Dad replies.