Chapter 362: Heroes of America
The President had taken his time with each honoree as he recounted their heroics before the flashing cameras. For every medal pinned, for every hand clasped, there was another story of sacrifice and defiance against impossible odds.
The last man before Kaiden had no legs. His wheelchair practically vibrated due to the bright camera lights. He wept openly with his shoulders shaking as the President leaned down to clasp his hand firmly.
"Your sacrifice will never be forgotten," the President said, tying the medal to his chest. "America stands today because of men like you."
The chamber stood and applauded. Cameras zoomed in on the tears streaming down the man’s face, his broken body framed by the brilliance of his courage. The applause swelled until it felt like the very walls of the chamber shook.
And then, as the ovation settled, the President’s gaze shifted. His eyes hardened in acknowledgment of the seriousness of what was to come. The cameras followed his line of sight, and millions held their breath when Kaiden Grey and his companions came into full view.
Kaiden himself stood tall, wearing a tailored black suit that fit him like a second skin, the cut emphasizing his broad shoulders and powerful frame. No tie, no frills; just a clean, sharp look that demanded respect.
At his sides were his women. Aria wore a sleek midnight-blue gown that traced her athletic curves. Luna stood radiant in a storm-gray dress split at the thigh. Her every movement was graceful and charged with a hidden electricity. Nyx chose a daring black ensemble with shimmering pink accents.
And then there was Bastet, standing with her golden skin illuminated beneath the lights. Her dress was a regal crimson trimmed with gold. However, she had traded her usual desert-inspired attire for something more traditionally American. Though, despite the more binding nature of western clothes, her tail still swayed proudly behind her hips, free and unhidden.
Kaiden was asked by the assistants who prepared them for the occasion if he wanted them to strap her tail down beneath the dress, but he instantly refused. As such, a hole had been cut for the black tail of the Ra-Blessed Felinid, which she shook happily, visibly joyous of her Master’s decision to let her be herself even as the assistants looked unsure of his decision.
But, of course, Kaiden did not care. He asked Bastet to dress in American clothes for the occasion, as it felt proper, but she was still his beloved tanned kitten.