Matt looks a bit surprised as he listens to Angelina's reasoning. The air around the table is tense and he feels very awkward in his seat. He looks at his Dad and wonders what he's going to say next.
"You know what Miss Dimitrova? I get whit yer saying - But I simply cannot agree. The LPI do great work planetside, and tackling small criminals - sure they do a good job. However what can those little fighters of theirs do against tha' mounts of Scylla's, Tridente's and bomber's that fly around up there? Nuffin! "David enough. Don't lecture the poor girl! She's a Lt Commander, I think she knows a bit more about the military than you do!" "I'm sure Miss Dimitrova does, but think about it eh? The Navy are tha' only real people in a position tae help! Ye cannae trust those merc's, I lost 3 transports in 6 months to merc's backstabbing tha' crews! I pay my taxes! The government should be doing more!" "Well you voted for Powell" "Argh, don't remind me!"
This pointless discussion had already lasted well over a half hour and was one that Matt had heard so many times before. He looked at John who raised his eyebrows understandingly. He seemed to be getting it in the next as well recently.
"Dad - Tell you what, I'll try and keep an eye on it. We do have bigger fish to fry and at the end of the day - I go where I'm sent." "Which is why ye should have joined tha' business! "No, that's your venture. You've done well getting bought over by Interspace and congrats on hitting your stock targets in these troubling times but seriously - It's not that we can't or won't help. I'm just not in a position to promise you." "Exactly David, now leave off will you, please! Honestly! Our boys are home. Now who's for dessert!
Matt laughs and lets out a big sigh and his father chuckles and nods. They look at each other and both realise that today is not the best day for argument. Matt picks up the bottle of whisky and pours himself and his Dad a large measure. He pours one for Angelina and John, his mother refuses a glass.
"Cheers - Happy Holidays" "Cheers"
Outside, the snow begins to fall and the night goes on. Jokes are shared, embarrassing stories of childhood and photographs showing the Smith boy's graduation parades. Julie even tries to wind John up.
![[Image: iwrM7.png]](http://i.imgur.com/ZmDUJ.png)