His face was completely blank, but I could see the tight grip he had on his own knee.

“Captain Vance,” the colonel said, his voice cold. “You stripped a decorated officer of his identity, his benefits, and his livelihood for personal gain.”

Vance looked up, his eyes red and wet.

“I am sorry, sir,” Vance whispered.

“Your apologies mean nothing to this court, or to the family you devastated,” the colonel said. “You will remain in military custody pending your formal sentencing.”

Two armed military police officers stepped forward.

They handcuffed Vance and led him out through a side door.

His boots dragged on the linoleum floor, a pathetic sound in the large room.

Major Hayes turned to us, a small, grim smile on her face.

“That is the first step,” she said. “The military will formally restore Jake’s active-duty status and back pay by the end of the week.”

“Thank you, Rebecca,” Jake said, shaking her hand.

“Save the thanks for when we get your house back,” she said. “Reyes is waiting for us at the federal building.”