Chapter 12 Military Aircraft

• These illustrious Shoresea elites comprised military luminaries: lieutenant colonels, seasoned generals from naval, terrestrial, and aerial domains.
• Yet, they had convened here, of all places, to celebrate Cecilia's birthday. In the entire expanse of Shoresea, who else could wield such commanding influence?
• Not even the esteemed mayor of Shoresea could muster such deference.
• Cecilia's classmates stood frozen, awestruck by the surreal tableau unfolding before them.
• Earlier, Laura had insinuated that Cecilia might be under the patronage of a prominent figure at Heaven International due to her captivating beauty. Could this grand assembly validate that claim?
• Even Keith, the CEO of Heaven International, would struggle to exert the kind of sway over Cecilia that these eminent guests implied.
• "Thomas, what in the world is happening?" Laura's hushed query conveyed uncertainty rather than the pride she had shown earlier. These were Shoresea's notable personalities.
• "I haven't the faintest clue!" Thomas's voice quivered. "Laura, are you certain Cecilia is merely a disgraced lady?"
• The scene defied belief.
• "Wasn't it said she's the kept woman of someone important at Heaven International?" Laura blurted out, then promptly lapsed into silence.
• If Cecilia caught wind of this, she would be incensed. Laura's standing in Shoresea could be imperiled.
• "This is inconceivable ... "
• Celia observed as each celebrity in line shook Cecilia's hand, one by one.
• She gently shook her head, her lips moving faintly, "I know Cece well. She's just a nobody from the Faradays. How could she possibly gather these people for her birthday?"
• The leading lady?
• Who truly holds that title here?
• Is it Laura?
• No ...
• She is merely a supporting act.
• The true star was Cecilia. Laura's radiance had been overshadowed by Cecilia, and they existed in different realms.
• In this moment, Cecilia, the innocent girl, remained perplexed, uncertain of the unfolding scene.
• So Cecilia ventured forth, "May I inquire, who extended your invitations here?"
• Across Shoresea, who could wield such authority over these individuals?
• "Ms. Faraday, please dispense with formality. We've only just learned of your birthday. Please accept our apologies!" Chief Justice Jonathan bowed deeply, his expression tinged with regret.
• "Indeed, Ms. Faraday, it was our oversight. No one formally invited us!" Lieutenant Colonel Lynch echoed, his tone respectful and sincere.
• Others joined in, their demeanours reflecting deference and humility.
• Cecilia paused, contemplating ...
• At this juncture, Cecilia found herself even more bewildered. She didn't recognise any of these figures. Why then were they showing such deference towards her?
• Her gaze flickered faintly, "But ... I don't know any of you!"
• "We are but humble folk. It's natural that you would not know us. But we know of Ms. Faraday," General Gaia interjected promptly. "Whenever you require our assistance in the future, just let us know!"
• This woman was the darling of the young marshal, making her the most esteemed woman in the world—who would dare show her disrespect?
• "Darling, since these individuals sincerely wish you a joyous birthday, worry not about the details. Simply revel in your celebration!" Larry softly murmured beside her.
• "But ... I truly don't know them!"
• "They said it plainly enough. They're nobodies. Of course, you wouldn't know them."
• Cecilia mused, quietly questioning, But I'm a nobody too!
• The Air Force General stepped forward. "The gentleman is correct. It's quite natural for you not to be acquainted with us minor figures. Since this gentleman is your husband, he stands as the leading man."
• As his words resonated, a procession of air hostesses made their entrance, resplendent in immaculate uniforms.
• Leading the way, a refined air hostess pushed a trolley bearing an opulent cake, encrusted with jewels that glimmered under the lights, each gem a testament to extravagance.
• Each gem cost a fortune to acquire.
• With so many gems adorning the cake, gods knew how much wealth was burned.
• The cake Thomas had brought, despite its considerable worth, seemed utterly insignificant in comparison.
• Cecilia might've never had a cake that cost five figures before.
• However, she would have something much more expensive and valuable.
• The students stared in awe, Laura included.
• This was the epitome of a grand spectacle.
• What right did Laura have to measure herself against Cecilia?
• "Cece, we’re best friends. If I said anything harsh earlier, I hope you won’t hold it against me," Laura hurried over, linking arms with Cecilia, her tone filled with contrition.
• "Don't be so chummy with her!"
• Larry stepped forward, drawing Cecilia into his embrace, leaving Laura awkwardly sidelined. "Darling, it's your birthday today. Let’s blow out the candles together."
• "Okay." Cecilia nodded, her heart a mix of excitement and trepidation.
• After all, it was astonishing that such a collection of Shoresea’s elite had assembled just to celebrate her birthday. Yet, Larry’s embrace instilled in her a profound sense of security.
• "Hmph!" Laura watched them, her sneer laden with bitterness.
• "A worthless husband. What gives him the right to address me like that? Even if it’s Cece’s birthday, what does it have to do with that useless man?"
• "I heard he married into Cece's family."
• Though not a bellow, Laura's voice was heard by her classmates.
• "Laura's right."
• Claus sneered, "He's just a live-in son-in-law, basking in his wife's reflected glory. He probably hasn't a clue she's being kept by someone else."
• "Ah, so a kept man indeed!" Thomas managed a smile, twirling his wine glass with an air of false cheer. "What an admirable gentleman," he remarked, dripping with sarcasm, making it clear he found Larry contemptible.
• Larry's eyes swept over Thomas and his entourage, dismissing them with a glance.
• Yet, in that look was a disquieting power, as though his mere presence could unravel their composure.
• As the celebration drew to a close, a helicopter descended upon the entrance of the International Hotel, its doors emblazoned with the unmistakable insignia of the Air Force.
• "A military chopper?"
• "Why's it here?"
• Thomas and the others stood agog, their hearts thundering. The sight was undeniably formidable.
• Laura's breath hitched. On either side of the helicopter, two rows of airmen, rifles at the ready, stood impeccably straight, their military bearing exuding an aura of solemn authority.
• The crème de la crème of Shoresea had assembled here, and now a military helicopter had arrived to escort someone. It was the zenith of honour. If only her birthday were being celebrated thus!
• But that was not her destiny.
• Regardless of her arrival, Cecilia was departing in a military helicopter, accompanied by Shoresea’s elite, including its mayor.
• More striking was the scene's gravity: two rows of airmen, standing at attention, saluting Cecilia.
• "Darling, go ahead. I have matters to attend to," Larry said, assisting Cecilia into the helicopter and shutting the door behind her.
• With the door closed, Cecilia was isolated from the unfolding events outside.
• "Young Marshal!" The commanders of the land, sea, and air forces saluted Larry, their demeanour one of utmost respect, their voices reverberating.
• The sound echoed in the ears of Thomas and the others, leaving them in stunned silence.