Chapter 8: The FBI Visit
The two FBI agents arrived at 10:15 a.m. the next morning.
Claire had been expecting them. Margaret had called the night before to say the financial crimes unit wanted to speak with her directly. Claire had spent the morning cleaning the kitchen and making fresh coffee, as if this were any other day.
When the doorbell rang, she opened the door without hesitation.
Special Agent Daniel Reyes and Special Agent Priya Sharma stood on the porch. Both were dressed in dark coats dusted with melting snow. Reyes was older, with a calm, unreadable face. Sharma looked younger but carried herself with quiet authority.
“Mrs. Langley,” Reyes said. “We’re with the FBI’s financial crimes unit. We’d like to ask you a few questions about the materials you submitted.”
Claire stepped aside. “Come in. I’ve already made coffee.”
They sat in the living room. Claire poured coffee into three mugs and placed them on the coffee table before sitting across from the agents. She kept her hands folded in her lap.
Reyes opened a notebook. “We’ve reviewed the documents you provided. The volume and organization of the evidence is… impressive. Most people don’t prepare something this thorough.”
“I used to work as a paralegal,” Claire said. “I know how important documentation is.”
Sharma spoke next. “You’ve alleged multiple instances of forgery, wire fraud, and the creation of a shell company used to divert funds. That’s a serious set of accusations. Are you prepared to testify to everything in these files?”
Claire met her eyes. “I am.”
The interview lasted nearly two hours. Claire answered every question clearly and without emotion. She provided additional context when asked and offered to retrieve specific documents from her hidden office if they needed them. She did not cry. She did not express anger. She simply told them what she knew and what she could prove.
When the agents finally stood to leave, Reyes paused at the door.
“Your husband has been making a lot of noise,” he said. “He’s contacted several people trying to get the holds lifted. He’s also been trying to reach you.”
“I know,” Claire replied.
Reyes studied her for a moment. “Most people in your position would be scared or emotional right now. You seem very calm.”
Claire gave a small, tired smile. “I’ve had six months to prepare for this conversation, Agent Reyes. I’ve already done my crying.”
After they left, Claire stood in the doorway and watched their car drive away. She knew Victor would hear about this visit soon. People talked, especially when the FBI was involved. By afternoon, he would know that the federal government was now actively investigating him.
May you like
She closed the door and locked it.
Then she went upstairs to change her clothes. She had a feeling today was going to be a long one.
