“I am an officer of the law,” I said. “I do not cover up crimes.”

My father raised his cane and pointed it at me.

“You will never be welcome in our home again,” he said.

“I haven’t been welcome there since I chose the academy over your plans for me,” I said.

“You are a disappointment,” he said.

I looked at him directly.

“I am a Colonel in the United States Army,” I said. “And I am the commander of Fort Garrison.”

I walked to the door and opened it.

The guard was standing right outside.

“Escort these civilian visitors off the installation,” I said.

“Yes, Colonel,” the guard said.

Claire looked at me with pure hatred.

“I hope you rot in this office,” she said.

“Goodbye, Claire,” I said.

My mother did not look at me as she walked out.

My father paused at the door.

He looked as if he wanted to say something else, but he kept his mouth shut.

He limped out into the hallway.

The door clicked shut.

I stood by the door for a long moment.