"And you're certain it was your ex-husband's vehicle?" Agent Thompson asked.
"No," Heather admitted. "But it was the same make and model. And the timing..."
"We understand," Agent Martinez said. "Mr. Watkins here has provided us with extensive documentation about Richards' business practices and his connection to your ex-husband. It's quite impressive research."
Joe shrugged. "I'm good with computers."
"Very good," Agent Thompson agreed. "Good enough to uncover a pattern of harassment and fraud that spans several states. We've been building a case against Richards for months, but this connection to Mr. McGowen adds a new dimension."
"What do you mean?" Heather asked.
The agents exchanged a look before Martinez continued. "We believe Richards has been using his business ventures as cover for something larger. The property acquisitions, the pressure tactics against small business owners. It's all part of a money laundering operation. And your ex-husband's engineering firm appears to be involved."
"Money laundering?" Lyle leaned forward. "For what?"
"We're still piecing that together," Thompson said. "But we believe it involves international contracts and some questionable overseas investments. The harassment of former spouses appears to be a sort of... insurance policy. Keeping people quiet through intimidation."
Heather felt sick. "So this isn't just about my business?"
"No," Martinez said gently. "We think your ex-husband may have shared sensitive information with you during your marriage—information you might not even realize you have. The pressure to sell your business, the property interference... it's likely an attempt to maintain control and keep you isolated."
Heather remembered going through Bret’s files and his desk, which she’d had to break into. She’d been looking for evidence of extra marital affaires, not money laundering. Bret barely shared the weather with her, much less sensitive information. But would he think she’d found something incriminating in her search other than secret vasectomies and lurid hotel retreats with other women?
"Why now?" Kenny asked from his position near the door. "Heather's been divorced for over a year."
"Because she's making a name for herself," Joe answered before the agents could respond. "The articles I found, the industry recognition. She's becoming too visible, too successful. They can't control what they can't contain. Plus, there’s the revenge angle. Bret wants Heather to suffer, both emotionally and financially."
"Exactly," Martinez confirmed. "And now that we know about the connection between Richards and McGowen, we can move more aggressively. But we need your help, Ms. Prescott."
Heather straightened in her chair. "What kind of help?"
"We'd like you to continue negotiations with Richards," Thompson said. "Make him think you're considering his offer. Meanwhile, we'll monitor his activities and gather evidence of their operation."
"You want to use her as bait?" Lyle's voice was sharp with concern.
"With full protection," Martinez assured them. "We'll have agents nearby at all times, and we'll coordinate with local law enforcement."
"I'll do it," Heather said firmly, before anyone could protest. "If it helps to stop them from harassing me and anyone else, I'll do whatever you need."
Lyle's hand found hers, squeezing gently. "Then we'll all help. Whatever it takes."
The agents spent another hour going over details and safety protocols before finally standing to leave. As they reached the door, Martinez turned back.
"One more thing," she said. "We'd like to put surveillance on the property you're trying to buy. There's a good chance they'll try to use it to force a meeting."
"Of course," Heather agreed. “But that’s not up to me. I imagine you’ll have to clear it with the realtor and the homeowner’s heirs.”
“Already one step ahead of you.”
The agents left and they all moved into the kitchen. Through the window, Heather could see Charlotte playing with the dogs in the last rays of sunlight, her laughter carrying faintly through the glass. Mike was putting the finishing touches on supper but was clearly keeping an eagle eye on the little girl.
"You okay?" Lyle asked quietly.
She turned to him, finding strength in his steady gaze. He was tall and solid and sexier than any man had a right to be. She wanted to melt into his arms and just stay there, but they weren’t alone. "Yeah. Actually, I am. For the first time since this all started, I feel like we're finally fighting back instead of just reacting."
"We're all in this with you," Joe said. "Whatever happens."
Kenny nodded in agreement, and Heather felt tears prick at her eyes. Here, in this beautiful ranch house with these incredible people, she finally understood what real strength looked like.
