It started with Captain Hayes, then spread to the senior officers, and then to the entire room.

I looked at Helen, who stood near the edge of the stage.

Her hands were clenched into tight fists, her face pale under her makeup.

She realized she had lost everything.

She turned and walked quickly out of the ballroom side exit, ignored by everyone.

The applause faded as the formal gathering began to break up.

Several admirals and generals walked up to me to shake my hand.

“An honor, Colonel,” one said.

“We are glad to have you back in the fold,” another added.

I thanked them politely, keeping my responses brief.

I walked over to Captain Hayes.

“Thank you, Captain,” I said. “For everything.”

“You earned this, Emerson,” Hayes said, squeezing my hand.

“Your father would be proud of you,” he added.

“I’m going to see him tomorrow,” I said. “Before I head north.”

“He’s at the facility in Bethesda now,” Hayes said. “I’ve already arranged his transfer.”

“Thank you,” I said.

General Drummond walked over, holding a leather folder.

“Your official orders, Emerson,” Drummond said, handing them to me.