Following the dinner organized by Claudia Joy, the latter had received some nasty things from Lenore Baker. The latter having always been married to starred generals, could not stand Claudia Joy who in addition to having a husband appreciated in the army, led his family also while being an example to everyone. As the evening was over, Claudia and Michael were about to go to bed. Michael was coming out of the bathroom and he saw Claudia in his thoughts.

M: Honey, this evening was successful. You did a great job as usual.
C: Thank you.
M: Something wrong?
C: No do not worry I'm just tired, and then Denise was not good today. It reminds me of bad times.
M: Hey, Claudia ...

The latter turned her head to Michael. His eyes were wet.

C: They had planned to go on vacation, unfortunately with what happens to Jeremy it is no longer possible. Only they did not expect Jeremy to go so badly. Only I thought his child was still there, even though he was in the hospital and suffered a mission shock.
M: Claudia, honey ...

Michael sat on the bed and put a hand on his, caressing him.

C: We are always worried about our children for things that are sometimes serious but finally we realize too late that it was not worth it. Denise forever Jeremy. Amanda has been kidnapped and I will give her everything to be with us again.

Claudia let the tears flow down her cheeks. Michel approached her with tears in her eyes and took her in his arms against him. He did not know what to say to help her and restore her confidence.

M: Nobody can know what we feel in our case. It is indescribable. Amanda misses me terribly too, and when I see reports of mission-casualties who are her age, I think of her every time again. I know there are more difficult periods honey, but do not leave all that inside ... I'm here, okay?
C: I know ... but I miss her so much.

Michael tightened his embrace. He kissed Claudia in the neck.

M: You were still there for Denise and despite all you were a wonderful host tonight.

Michael kissed Claudia on the cheek and remained facing her. Claudia only gave him a weak smile. Michael put a hand on his cheek and caressed him. Claudia found her gaze betraying another fear.

M: Honey, I can see there is something else.

Michael understood with a simple look of Claudia.

M: Ok Lenore Baker ...
C: Michael honestly tell me ... do I do too much?
M: For me you always do too much, you are on all fronts, you manage everything at the same time, while remaining nice to everyone and right. But you know that's what makes me proud of you. I am so proud of you.
C: Thank you.
M: I see Lenore sowing doubt in you again.
C: I just pause the question of whether I do not use your image to always want to be everywhere at once. On the contrary, it would not give me the image of someone who seeks to know everything about everything to be above everyone else ...
M: Ok, Claudia sa is Lenore Baker's behavior, surely not yours. You help people because for you it is essential to feel good here. The last time she managed to unearth an event from your past and almost ruined our reputation. You know what she's capable of so do not let her interfere in what you do best.
C: You're right. I'm sorry but what she told me destabilized me.
M: I know what she said to you, I have ears you know even more when an evening takes place at home I did not take long to hear it too. But do not forget where you went to get where you are, and believe me you would not put yourself at the head of the support group if you did not do everything you do. Especially since you support me a lot, at every moment, you represent wonderfully the role of a military woman, hence your Spencer Award nomination. You are simply wonderful. The rest is just jealousy and you know it.

Claudia was moved by hearing Michael's words.

C: I love you.
M: Me too.

They kissed tenderly for several seconds before deciding to sleep. Claudia curled up against Michael and felt calm, safe.

C: I do not know what I'll do without you.
M: Do not think about it, I'm here and I'll always be here.

Michael kissed him on the forehead. He felt Claudia breathe more quietly, she fell asleep. He turned off the light.

M: Good night honey.
C: Good night, Claudia answered as she had already closed her eyes.