Page 8 of Facing the Enemy

“I have an idea, an exception to protocol, and I will need to clear it with DC. Think about this—as far as anyone knows, you’ve resigned, but you are technically on leave. The status would allow you to view the investigation into your brother’s death. I’ll request once the threat is resolved and an arrest is made, you’d like to return to your present division.” The SAC laid his pen on the desk. “You are forbidden to work in an undercover capacity while our task force with HPD continues their investigation.”

I intended to find my brother’s killer. “If I do?”

He snorted. “You know the answer to that.”

He offered a viable solution. Was it the best? “I’d have security access to databases, online files, and reports?”

“No more than any other agent and only after I’ve cleared the information and have DC approval. If so, we can set up secure access.”

“And no one would know about my status but you and DC?”

“If the higher-ups agree. I have two stipulations—you must keep me informed weekly about your investigation.”

I startled. “You just said—”

“I know you, Risa. This is strictly between us. If you go against any of my instructions or if I determine your methods of investigation warrant dismissal, I will bring charges against you and end your career.”

“Why are you willing to help me?”

He pressed his lips together. “I chose the FBI when a cousin in high school died in a drive-by shooting. I understand your emotions, the drive to find out who killed your brother. But I don’t know if my idea will pass. I’ll make the call in the morning and let you know.”

Without hesitation, I agreed. “I think it best if I decline a paycheck or benefits because the word would get out. I’ll return to teaching.” He nodded and I continued. “I plan to break relationships with everyone here and contact you from a burner.”

“How much of this will you relay to your parents?”

I had no peace about abandoning them after they’d just lost their only son. “I’ll call and let them know they’ve been threatened unless I resign and keep my distance from them. Can the FBI offer protection?”

“We can do surveillance, but nothing else unless they are threatened again. And Gage?”

“If he knows what we’re doing, he’ll jump in and play hero.” Gage had this must-be-in-control gene. We both did.

SAC Dunkin inhaled deeply. “I must tell him something since his name’s mentioned in the note.”

“He’s not in danger if I resign.”

“Wrong. I’ll tell him word on the street is to leave the investigation alone or the killer will retaliate.”

“You make sense,” I said. “I don’t want anyone hurt.”

“For all practical purposes, you are finished with the FBI. I’m calling security to escort you out with your personal effects. If this arrangement is approved, don’t make me regret this.”

“Yes, sir. Did you catch the person responsible for your cousin’s death?”

“What do you think?”

Once home, I phoned Dad on my burner and silently coaxed him to pick up. They despised spam callers. I’d never used it to call him or Mom. Guilt about Trenton’s death mounted while I needed to keep my parents safe. Two calls later Dad answered.

“Dad, I need your word that what I’m about to say goes no farther than Mom.”

“Sure, baby. What’s wrong? Are you in danger? In trouble?” Anxiety rippled through Dad’s deep voice.

“I’m fine, but you and Mom are in dangerifI meet with you. After Trenton’s funeral, I found a note on my car demanding I resign from the FBI or expect you, Mom, Gage, or any of my friends at the FBI to be the target of the next funeral. I chose to comply. I’m to tell no one about the threat and walk away from my job, my family, and my friends. The FBI will keep an eye on you and Mom until this is over. If you receive a threat, I’d like for you to move to a secure location.”

He broke into a sob, and I kept mine at bay. “Right now your mother and I need you more than ever. I don’t care that this sounds selfish. It’s the truth. Isn’t there another way?”

“Unfortunately not. SAC Dunkin is conducting a full investigation. He’ll inform me when an arrest is made. I need you and Mom to let others know I’ve deserted you. After the funeral, I resigned my job and claimed I needed space to heal from Trenton’s death. I will check in with you periodically on this burner phone. It can’t be easily traced. I’d like for you to pick up one too. That makes what I’m doing safer. Please, trust no one.”

“Can’t the FBI help you? Gage?” Anguish continued to smother his words.