CHAPTER THIRTY
With the recordings, videos, and notes in the hands of federal prosecutors, the men of the board of Coastal Airways were all in custody and being charged with so many things they wouldn’t be able to see daylight ever again.
Gustav met Alvin and his friends close up. He wasn’t happy with the outcome, or at least that’s what his screams indicated.
Colonel Tom Lewis appeared before the military review board, in spite of being retired. He explained every detail of what occurred, what he did to attempt to stop them and even praised the support of Reginald.
Both men were released, the colonel happily walking April down the aisle. He’d never seen so many warriors in one place and he’d led more than a few in his time.
“You could always stay here permanently, colonel,” said Patrick.
“I think I’ll stay for a while,” he said nodding at the group of men. “I don’t want April to feel as though I’m under her feet.”
“I don’t think she’ll feel that way at all. She loves having you here and so do we,” said Wes.
“I can’t thank you all enough for what you’ve done for her. I realize that Quinn did it for selfish reasons,” he laughed, “but still.”
“My son is very much in love with her and she’ll be well cared for here,” said Patrick. “We take love more seriously than any mission, sir.”
“Yes, you do,” he laughed. “How about another plate of food, gentlemen? I believe I’m hitting my stride.”
Patrick smiled at the older man as he and others headed back to the banquet tables. He noticed Finnegan seated, watching the crowds and wondered if he were contemplating someone as a future wife. There were plenty of women in the crowd. Many too young, but many within an appropriate age range.
“Seeing your future?” he asked smiling down at him. Finn stood laughing at his father.
“Don’t push, Dad. I’m just happy for Quinn and for River.”
“Wavy has grown into a beautiful young woman,” he said to his son. Finn jerked his head to the side, staring at his father.
“Willa. Her name is Willa. I hate that nickname, Wavy. And yes, she’s beautiful and young and if that asshole Brian Talbot doesn’t stop dancing with her I’m going to pound his face in.”
Finn turned on his heels and walked in the opposite direction. Patrick could only nod his head, smiling at his third son.
“So, it’s Willa,” grinned Margo. “We suspected as much.”
“Yep. Now, we have to figure out how to make him realize that she’s not so young any longer.” Margo took her husband’s hand and led him to the dance floor.
“Let’s let him figure that out. It usually works best that way. But just in case, maybe warn Brian so he doesn’t get the shit beat out of him.”