“This is Special Agent Katherine Ross from the Department of Defense Inspector General,” I announced to everyone present.
Gregory’s jaw dropped as he stared at the federal badge hanging from the agent’s belt.
Special Agent Ross fixed her eyes directly on Nicholas.
“Nicholas Ferguson, you are a lead civilian contractor for the Ferguson Defense Group, are you not?” she asked.
He swallowed nervously, every trace of color disappearing from his face.
“Yes, that is correct,” he whispered.
“This investigation into your company’s financial records has been active for over six months,” she said, opening the folder.
Patricia looked genuinely frigh.ten.ed, her voice trembling for the very first time.
“What investigation? We have done nothing wrong!” she exclaimed.
I looked at her almost sympathetically.
“The one your family did not even realize my daughter was helping to build,” I said.
Abigail slowly lifted her bruised face, fresh determination finally returning to her eyes.
