The fluorescent hum of the Redwood Galleria Mall provided a surreal backdrop for the most harrowing moment of Commander Ethan Cole’s distinguished career. A decorated Navy SEAL who had navigated the lethal complexities of foreign war zones, Ethan was no stranger to pressure. However, he never anticipated that the ultimate test of his discipline would occur between a pretzel stand and a toy store just days before Christmas. He was there for a simple, joyous reason: to reward his nine-year-old daughter, Naomi, with a beginner telescope for her academic achievements. Because he had come directly from a solemn ceremony honoring...
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