Chapter 7 - Leaving the Kitchen DoorI slowly unfolded my napkin and placed it beside my plate
The chicken with rosemary and lemon had gone cold.
The expensive wine in my glass remained untouched.
For twenty years, I had sat in this chair and swallowed their veiled insults, their
pity, their casual cruelty. I had done it because I believed that keeping the peace was part of my cover, part of the sacrifice required by my oath.
But looking at Maribel's pale face and Aurelia's downcast eyes, I realized I didn't need to do it anymore. Stellan had broken the seal. The truth was out, and I was free.
I stood up. I didn't smooth my skirt or duck my head. I stood with the posture of a woman who commanded rooms filled with four-star generals.
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"The dinner was lovely, Maribel," I said, my voice projecting clearly across the silent room. "But I have an early briefing at the Pentagon tomorrow. I should be going."
I didn't wait for her to excuse me. I didn't wait for anyone to say goodbye. I turned and walked out of the dining room, my heels clicking rhythmically against the hardwood floor. I walked past the antique credenza, past the glowing chandelier, and out the front door, leaving the seat by the kitchen behind forever.
