He held a white sheet of paper.

“On the charge of blackmail,” the president read.

“The panel finds the accused: Guilty.”

“On the charge of wire fraud,” he continued.

“The panel finds the accused: Guilty.”

“On the charge of conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman,” he read.

“The panel finds the accused: Guilty.”

Andrew did not flinch.

He seemed to have gone numb.

“The defendant will stand for sentencing,” Colonel Arispe said.

Andrew stood up, his hands flat against his trousers.

“Andrew Carter,” the judge said, his voice cold.

“You have betrayed your oath.”

“You have betrayed the soldiers under your command.”

“You have brought dishonor to this uniform.”

“The court sentences you to be dismissed from the service with a dishonorable discharge.”

“You are stripped of all rank, pay, and allowances.”

“Furthermore, you are sentenced to twelve years of confinement.”

“You will serve this sentence at the United States Disciplinary Barracks at Fort Leavenworth.”

The gavel fell once.

The sound was sharp, like a pistol shot in the small room.

“This court is adjourned,” Arispe said.

The guards stepped forward and placed handcuffs on Andrew’s wrists.