The suite alone costs seven hundred dollars.”

“I just picked up my service paperwork from the post office, Mother,” I said, leaning in toward the table.

“And my division logistics award came through from headquarters last week.”

Linda gave a short, sharp laugh and sat back in her upholstered chair.

She straightened her silver brooch and looked at her reflection in the shiny side of her silver coffee spoon.

“Oh, Emily, active duty supply awards are lovely for the base newspaper,” Linda said.