Chapter 42

The expensive lawyer tapped his fingers on the table.

“I am shocked by this indictment. All you have is the word of a known felon against my client.”

“And phone records showing calls between the two men.”

“All that proves is they know each other. That is not evidence of criminal activity.”

“Then I’m sure Mr. Vandenburg will be happy to answer our questions.”

“I’m afraid not. My client is exercising his fifth amendment rights.”

“We follow the money, counselor. Someone paid the hitman, and if that trail, leads to your client he won’t need you. He’ll need a priest.”

“There’s no reason for threats, detective. Do you have anything else at this time?”

“No.”

“Then we’ll see you at the bail hearing.”

The FBI agents knew what was coming. Men of privilege have teams of experts at their disposal. At the bail hearing, they made an eloquent case about Vandenburg’s good breeding, service to the community, and spotless criminal record. Bail was granted, and Arthur walked out of the courthouse with his team. They did not dignify the press with any attention and sailed serenely past the microphones and shouted questions.

“What’s the next step?”

“We continue to gather evidence before the trial date. Maybe he’ll roll and cut a plea deal.”

“I don’t think so. The aristocracy doesn’t roll over under pressure. And I wonder what tricks the defense has up their sleeve?”

“All we can do is trace the money. That’s our best angle to put this bastard away.”

“What about known associates?”

“We’ll lean on them and see what pops out of their mouths.”