Robert nodded. “The pattern on the dress she was wearing.

 

That’s it.” He pointed to a patch of fabric around the bony feet. He pointed to

another remnant. “And the shoes. What’s left of them. And that’s Mom’s hair

color.” “You remember her clothes and shoes?” “I remember everything about that

night, John.” He put a hand on the wall to steady himself. He suddenly bent over

and sucked in several deep breaths while Puller put an arm around his brother’s

shoulders, supporting him. Finally Robert straightened.

 

He nodded. “It’s Mom. We finally found her, John.” Both brothers continued to

look at the remains until the medical examiner came over to the table. The shade

on the window was lowered as he began his work.

 

Knox walked over to Puller and Robert. “They’re here,” she said tersely.

 

Waiting in the lobby for them were a dozen MPs in body armor and carrying AR-15

assault rifles, along with a three-star who introduced himself as General

Randall Blair.

 

This was the other payoff. Rogers in return for no prosecutions against Puller

and the others for their assorted “crimes.” Knox slid over to Rogers and

whispered something in his ear.

 

Rogers nodded and then looked blankly at the group of soldiers.