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“You’re never going to let it go that it’s called a Soldier’s Medal, are you?”

Kate huffed in mock indignation. “I’m not a soldier, Lex. Technically I’m an airman. But it doesn’t matter either way. This medal, and your purple heart, are some of the highest honors that can be given. We are going in there, and you’re going to be good and smile.”

Alexis huffed again and looked back at Lilly, still oblivious to their conversation, totally engrossed in the movie on her tablet.

“Babe. To be honest, I just don’t feel I deserve it.”

Kate sighed and smiled at her softly. “Well then, accept it for me. If you hadn’t been there that day, I wouldn’t be alive. I don’t think anyone else could have gotten us out of there and lived to tell the tale.”

Alexis grabbed her hand and brought it to her lips, pressing a kiss to the underside of her wrist.

“Okay, fine. I’ll be good, but just don't forget. I didn’t save you because it was the right thing to do or for the award. I saved you because I love you. Without you, I wouldn’t have made it out of there, either.”

Kate smiled, her jaw trembling slightly and eyes brimming with unshed tears.

“Same here, Lieutenant Cole. Same here. I love you.”

They got out of the car, collected Lilly and turned to go inside. Alexis straightened her uniform and read the event sign standing near the door.

Congratulations Lieutenant Kate Cole and Lieutenant Alexis Cole

Please join us in the recognition of their valor, sacrifice, and courage

Purple Heart and Soldiers Medal Ceremony will commence at 1800

Kate smiled at Alexis and they each took one of Lilly’s hands and entered the building, prepared to accept their awards, take some pictures, eat, have a few drinks, and then go home. Alexis didn’t care how much socialization they were going to be forced into. She was just glad that after the evening ended, and every evening afterward, she’d get to go home with her wife, Little Lieutenant Kate Cole. Alexis wouldn’t want it any other way.