“You couldn’t stand that Andrew was more successful than you ever were.”

I looked at my sister, feeling a familiar dull ache in my chest, but I didn’t let it show on my face.

“Andrew was blackmailing junior officers, Claire,” I said quietly.

“He was selling transfer recommendations for cash.”

“That’s a lie!” Claire screamed, her voice echoing off the wood-paneled walls.

“He worked himself to the bone for this garrison while you were off playing hero.”

My father finally spoke, his voice low and heavy.

“Emily, if you have brought false charges against your sister’s husband, I will not support you.”

“Even with your new rank, I will see to it that this is investigated properly.”

I looked at him, seeing the stubborn pride that had defined my entire childhood.

He had always seen Claire as the perfect daughter, and Andrew as the son he never had.

“Father, the investigation is already over,” I said, walking over to the long conference table.

“The General has the proof. And I have the rest of it right here.”

I tapped the blue folder with my index finger.