The chatter died down; heads turned.

“What are you doing in here? Did you get lost looking for the admin building?”

I didn’t move. I kept my face neutral, my hands resting loosely by my sides.

“Hello, Mark,” I said, my voice even.

He chuckled, shaking his head as if he was dealing with a slow child.

“Seriously, Jules, this is the Red Flag briefing, the big leagues. Did Dad send you to drop off my lunch or something?”

He stepped closer, invading my personal space, pointing a finger at the door.

“You need to clear out, sweetie. We’re about to talk tactics. Real flying stuff, not the paperwork Dad said you were better suited for.”

He turned to the room, spreading his arms wide, performing for his audience.

“My sister, everyone—looks like she’s trying to find a husband since the flying career didn’t work out.”