Chapter 190

Just as Celeste was lost in thought, General Grant moved aside, revealing an older man surrounded by several majors in uniform. The man was well into his sixties, his silver hair cropped short, uniform practically weighed down by medals. Though age had etched deep lines into his face, he carried himself with surprising energy-possibly even sharper than Grant himself. As his eyes swept over them, they carried a silent authority, enough to make the air around them feel heavier. Celeste unconsciously tightened her grip on the wheelchair handles, sensing the shift in atmosphere. As protocol dictated, Ethan should've stepped forward to pay his respects-he was, after all, a subordinate and considerably lower in rank. But Ethan didn't budge. Instead, he stood his ground and gave a formal salute from a distance. It was clear Philip had noticed-his gaze was icy, barely acknowledging Ethan before turning back to chat with the people beside him. General Grant hesitated, a trace of surprise flicke