Albert washed his hands while Wilhelmina wiped the water droplets from his face, a meaningful smile on her lips.
“What’s good news?” Albert asked, grabbing her hand.
Wilhelmina’s smile deepened. “I have something to discuss with you.”
“Discuss?” Albert felt a slight sense of loss.
“Hey, listen to me,” Wilhelmina continued. “You know we want to eliminate the terrorist organization. We want to ask if a battle-experienced officer skilled in negotiations would join the expedition.”
Albert was stunned. “Me?”
Wilhelmina nodded. “It’s you, my darling! Are you willing?”
Albert took a deep breath, joy and emotion surging through him. “My God, Willy! What should I say?”
He lifted Wilhelmina in a big embrace.
Wilhelmina screamed and wrapped her arms around his neck. The nearby attendants tactfully turned away, exchanging glances.
Albert spun her around before setting her down, then held her hand and strode out of the stable.
“I can’t believe it,” Albert said, excited. “They actually agreed to let me lead troops. Won’t this conflict with the constitution?”
“You’re not the main commander, so it’s not a big issue. Besides, the military personnel are old friends of your family.”
“The opposition party will criticize.”
“Then win a victory and shut those politicians’ mouths!” Wilhelmina declared boldly.
They stopped beneath a large banyan tree.
“I don’t know how to thank you, Willy,” Albert said, his eyes full of gratitude and love. “You understand me so well. I once thought marrying you was my greatest happiness, but now I realize there can be even greater happiness.”
Wilhelmina smiled gently. “I know it’s war, and no wife normally volunteers to send her husband to the battlefield. But I want to create opportunities for you to showcase your talents. I want you to be happy.”
“I am truly happy. I love you,” Albert caressed his wife’s cheek. “And I swear I will return victorious.”
They embraced tightly before continuing to walk across the grassy slope.
Chapter 77 The Imperial Peacekeeping Forces set off that day, with Emeny presiding over the departure ceremony.
This non-public ceremony had no media, only internal video recording. Emeny wore a simple navy blue wool dress with a light blue hat. Besides pearl earrings and a silver cross necklace, she had no extra decorations. She sat in the first row of the military families’ section, quiet and resolute.
