“These are our seats,” one of the SEALs declared, his eyes steady on the guards. “And unless you’re intending to remove all of us, I suggest you let him stay.”

The guards hesitated, clearly unprepared to escalate an incident involving a decorated Marine and a group of Navy SEALs. The air was thick with tension, but the presence of these men brought a ripple of resolve through the audience.

Solomon nodded in appreciation, feeling the weight of camaraderie, a bond that transcended branches of service. The SEAL closest to him added, “We’re here to celebrate family. You understand?”