“Patricia Vance,” the judge continued, turning her gaze to my mother-in-law.

“For your role in facilitating the fraudulent transfer of military benefits and aiding in the unlawful eviction and endangerment of a minor, you are sentenced to ten years.”

Patricia let out a low, choking sob and buried her face in her chained hands.

“And Logan Vance,” the judge said.

Logan flinched as his name was called.

“For wire fraud, grand larceny, and conspiracy, taking into account your cooperation with federal investigators, you are sentenced to eight years.”

Logan nodded slowly, tears spilling down his pale cheeks.

The bailiffs stepped forward, their keys jingling as they led the three of them out through a side door.

The heavy latch clicked shut, and the room grew quiet again.

Agent Reyes walked over to our table, holding a black leather portfolio.

He opened it and slid a single sheet of paper across the table to Jake.

“This is the official court order restoring your legal status, Captain Vance,” Reyes said, a small, tired smile on his face. “The death certificate issued by the foreign authority has been officially vacated and declared null and void.”