"You don't belong here." That’s what he said to me. He leaned in close, smelling of expensive cologne and insecurity, blocking out the California sun. "I’m a Navy SEAL. You are a liability." I’ve heard it before. I’ve heard it in Pashto, in Arabic, in Russian, and in English. It’s the universal language of men who are terrified of losing control. Commander Harlon Vance was a man built for posters, not for war. His uniform was starched stiffer than plywood. His voice was a weapon he used to bludg