Page 100 of Only the Hunter

“And if the DOJ, or anyone else, tries to bury this?” I ask, because that’s the worry that’s giving me pause. Someone already closed this once.

“Then we go public. ARGUS data gets anonymized and leaked to investigative journalists. I’ve already got three on standby who specialize in federal corruption.”

“Lovely idea, Rhodes,” I say, “But if we leak ARGUS data, we can’t prosecute.”

“If they bury your IG complaint, there won’t be a prosecution anyway. At least exposure stops them from doing it again.”

Rhodes’ argument is reasonable but, “I don’t want exposure. I want arrests.”

Gabe’s gaze locks with mine. He understands.

Rhodes answers with the confidence of a young founder who’s worth billions. “Then make sure your IG complaint doesn’t get buried.”

“How?” I ask.

“Make it so explosive they can’t ignore it. Name Meridian. Name the PAC. Name the DHS official who signed the witness transfer. Make it specific enough that burying it becomes conspiracy.”

Rhodes is right. “If I name names in the complaint, and someone tries to obstruct the investigation, that’s a separate crime.”

“Exactly.” Rhodes says. “You’re not just alleging corruption. You’re creating a prosecutorial tripwire. Anyone who touches your complaint becomes part of the conspiracy.”

The call ends and Gabe gathers my hands in his. It’s a movement that underscores our relationship shift. We’re not pretending anymore. If we were only friends, he wouldn’t do this. Of course, as much as I want this, the timing is horrible. The last thing I want is to put his career in danger. He’s aiming for the NSA. Involvement in this could easily impact his career.

“When we get back, they’re going to come after me. Professionally. Maybe legally. They’ll say I’m unstable, obsessed, or trying to make a name for myself. Whichever narrative they choose, it won’t be flattering.”

“Let them.”

“I agree, but the problem is I don’t want you to be collateral. And there’s a good chance they’ll come after you. For helping me.”

“I’m counting on it.”

“Why are you doing this?” I don’t get it.

“Because I care about you, Evie.”

He says it like it’s the simplest truth in the world.

“That’s not a reason to get involved in this.”

“It’s the only reason that matters.”

Chapter 21

Gabe

The plan comes together all afternoon. Evie takes over the desk, preparing so she’s ready to hit the ground running. She’s a marvel to observe. Focused. Driven. Relentless.

She was dismayed that we couldn’t catch a flight today—frustrated when the one available option required three connections and would’ve taken longer than just waiting. Her father’s travel agent found us a direct flight to JFK tomorrow morning. We’ll be in DC two hours after landing.

Lunch was room service. Dinner hasn’t yet happened. The sun set hours ago, the lake outside now black glass reflecting moonlight. We lost the afternoon to planning, and the evening after that.

The world has narrowed to this room. To her.

I move behind her at the desk, brush her hair aside, and press my thumbs into her shoulders. She drops her head forward and releases a soft moan.

“That feels good.”

“You ready for a break?” I ask. “Hungry?”