The entire dining hall was so silent Jake could hear the ticking of a clock on the opposite wall. Every eye was on him — not because of his blunder anymore, but because he now stood before the highest authority in their command. Jake felt heat flood his face; the fierce pride he always carried was suddenly reduced to a cold, dull ember. Admiral Mitchell didn’t look angry. She picked up her ID, folded it, and placed her hands on the edge of the table — a gesture that asserted authority without hu