Chapter 49

“What’s the latest update on the investigation?”

“Leon has a new friend,” reported the FBI agents.

“A replacement for Vandenburg?”

“Seems so. His name is Simon.”

“So the organization is continuing operations.”

“Yes.”

“I wonder if Ken Brownling has been contacted too?”

“Probably. But we don’t have surveillance on him.”

“We should pay Kenny a visit. Encourage him to continue giving us information on the organization.”

“And if he doesn’t want to?”

“Leverage him. Does he really want the organization to know about our relationship with him?”

“But we don’t have any evidence of criminal activity on his part.”

“Too bad. You swim with sharks…”

“Understood.”

***

A few days later, Brownling received his visitors with hesitation.

“Hi, Kenny.”

“Hello. I thought the Vandenburg investigation closed with his death?”

“We’re continuing to investigate known associates. After all, it’s unlikely that he acted alone.”

“I gave you guys everything I had on him. I acted in good faith.”

“And so are we. All we are asking is that you keep your eyes and ears open and give us information on your dealings with Simon.”

“You know about him?” Kenny’s face had turned ashen white.

“Of course we do. Give us credit for investigative skills.”

“Do you realize what could happen to me?”

“Why? You’ve told us that you provide legitimate legal services. What’s so dangerous about that?” The FBI agents were smiling with sarcasm.

“Don’t play with me. I’m walking a fine line here!”

“Calm down. As long as you keep our meetings confidential, there is nothing to worry about.”

“Until my body disappears, or I have an auto accident.”

“Rest assured, if we sense any danger, we will pull you out and put you in protective custody.”

“Great.”