Page 98 of Facing the Enemy

She lifted her chin. “Then take your investigation somewhere else. My role at the care center is to show love, help, and healing to the birth mothers. Anything of the magnitude you’re implying is morally and legally wrong. No one here remotely fits such a vile description.”

Risa reached across the table within inches of touching Myra’s clasped hands. “You’re obviously upset.”

“I am. I resent being implicated in these crimes.”

“We are not in the least implicating you. Agent Patterson just noted the ease someone could obtain the birth mothers’ records.” Hertone softened Myra’s stiffened body. “Are your records under lock and key?”

“Yes, for paper copies. And related information is password protected on my computer. Often the files have personal information, especially if the young woman fears for her safety.” Myra glanced at Risa and then to me. “I don’t suspect anyone. Those of us who’ve been at the center for years aren’t there because of the money but to ensure the young women have every opportunity to give birth in a safe and healthy environment. Also to provide tools so they can be successful in caring for their children.”

Risa gave her a warm smile and withdrew her extended hand on the table. “Agent Patterson, do you have additional questions for Mrs. Cummings?”

“Not at this time. Thank you for allowing us to inconvenience your day. If you hear of anything that might help us, would you notify us immediately?”

“Yes, sir. It’s appalling the depths some people will go to make money.”

More like the depths some people would go tokeepmaking money.

One of my pocketed phones buzzed—Ethan’s burner from Florakis. Only one person had the number.

I glanced at Risa. “Would you escort Mrs. Cummings to the reception area? I need to take this call.”

In the hallway, I touched Answer on the burner phone. “Mr. Smith, how can I help you?”

“Where’s Ethan?”

“No idea. He gave me his phone. Said he had no use for it.”

“Who’s this?”

“Special Agent Gage Patterson.” Any call could be traced, but Florakis no doubt had his rear covered.

“The FBI hasn’t learned its lesson.”

“Let’s meet and talk about this. Name the time and place.”

He laughed. “Reardon wanted to meet up. I obliged and he lost his head in the deal. Are you volunteering for the same arrangement?”

“You sound sure of yourself.”

“Mercury’s a dead man. So is his family.”

“You tried really hard with Agent Jacobs.”

“Her life’s on a short leash. Just like yours. She should have listened.”

“Do you plan to take out the whole FBI?”

“Depends on what my boss wants.” The call ended.

Florakis admitted to a few crimes, but he denied being the boss. Threats seemed to be his specialty—and murder. Risa and I needed to talk to Luke’s widow.

54

RISA

I met Gage at his car with hundreds of thoughts swirling in my mind. Peter Florakis didn’t scare me, but he should. He’d leaned into the arena of arrogance, and he’d make a mistake and find himself staring down a life term or the death penalty.

“What did he say?”