“She told us about the operation and the investigation. She said someone changed the records.”
Terrence's expression became serious.
“Did she say who?”
“No.”
He looked at Danielle.
“Did she tell you anything else?”
“She said her mother gave her the photograph before she died. She said she had misunderstood the investigation and had argued with her mother.”
Terrence closed his eyes briefly.
“Margaret would have wanted her to know the truth.”
Danielle studied him.
“Then you do know what happened.”
Terrence nodded.
“I know part of it.”
Maya stepped closer.
“Dad, did you save the convoy?”
Terrence smiled gently.
“Several people worked together that night. I was one of them.”
“Was Colonel Whitmore brave?”
“She was.”
“Did she save everyone?”
Terrence took a breath.
“She made a difficult decision that helped get everyone home. It wasn't easy, and not everyone agreed with her at the time.”
Maya looked thoughtful.
“Then why did they investigate her?”
Terrence glanced at Danielle.
“Because equipment went missing, and the records didn't match. The agency had to investigate.”
“Was she guilty?”
“No.”
Maya looked relieved.
“Then why did people blame her?”
Terrence's expression grew grave.
“Sometimes people make assumptions before they know all the facts. And sometimes, when the facts become inconvenient, they don't correct those assumptions quickly enough.”
Danielle felt the weight of the words.
“Is that what happened?”
“Something like that.”
Terrence looked toward the terminal doors.
“Let's get the bags first. Then I'll explain.”
They walked together toward baggage claim.
Maya held her father's hand, and Danielle carried the baby, who had begun to stir. Terrence pushed the luggage cart while listening to Danielle recount the confrontation in detail.
When she described Evelyn's remarks, his jaw tightened.
“She said you looked suspicious?”
“Yes.”
“And she told the crew you were being aggressive?”
“Yes.”
Terrence shook his head.
“I'm sorry.”
Danielle looked at him.
“You didn't do it.”
“I know. But I'm sorry you had to deal with it.”
Maya added, “She also told me children should wait their turn.”
Terrence looked down at his daughter.
“You didn't have to wait. That was your assigned seat.”
“I know.”