Internal memos.
Cross-reference grids.
She walked investigators through Kessler’s pattern.
Through Hale’s approval chain.
Through Dugan’s transport roughness, his threats, his role in the smaller coverups that had kept the bigger machine running.
She added Parker’s footage to the tree.
Protected Parker’s name.
Argued for her transfer out of Millhaven before the week ended.
Won that argument.
When Parker was finally brought into a secure interview room under federal protection, she looked younger than ever.
Her hands would not stay still.
Claire sat across from her with a legal pad closed between them.
“No one’s going to force you into a story,” Claire said. “You tell the truth or you say nothing. That’s your choice.”
Parker nodded.
Eyes shining.
“I saw him put the bag in your purse.”
Claire waited.
“I saw it from my chest cam when I came in behind them.”
