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“What do you suggest?” I ask.

“We bring your information to us without bringing anyone here.”

“How?”

Sean looks at Taylor.

“We set up a secure transfer. Vega’s agents send the photographs. Hayley reviews them here.”

Vega releases a breath.

“That will require federal approval.”

“Get it.”

“You don’t give federal agents orders, Campbell.”

“I made a suggestion.”

“That didn’t sound like one.”

Arthur speaks from the doorway.

“He has trouble with tone.”

Sean doesn’t look at him.

Vega almost laughs.

Almost.

“I’ll make the request,” she says. “No promises.”

“Thank you,” I tell her.

“Hayley?”

“Yes?”

“None of this is your fault.”

I close my eyes.

Daniel used me.

Greg used me.

Navarro tried to use me.

But twenty-one girls are alive.

“I know,” I whisper.

I’m not sure I believe it yet.

Vega disconnects.

Taylor begins securing the communication system.