by A. Hargrove
“When I call Kent this morning, I’ll see if he’s heard from him. If not, I’ll have someone from the bureau up there check on him.”
“Good idea. Hey, can I ask you something?”
“Shoot.” He was still looking at his phone.
“Do we have a local unit in Atlanta that specializes in sex trafficking?”
“Yeah. Their team will be in here this morning. They operate out of a separate office. Why?”
“I’m interested in it.”
Art’s gaze whipped up to mine. “You are? Why?”
“After last night, I guess my heart got hooked.”
“Isla…” His tone held a warning.
“It’s not that.”
“Then explain it to me because the one thing an agent is never supposed to do is get involved…”
“I’m not involved, Art. What I saw last night was atrocious. I believe I could benefit women like that. Put my heart and soul into finding those monsters that do that type of thing. It doesn’t have to do with the victims. Well, it sort of does, but I’m pissed at the criminals who did it.”
“I get your point, but you still need to stay focused. Sounds like your heart is involved.”
“It’s not, but my brain sure is. Who do I need to talk to?”
“You’re talking to him.”
I already knew that and almost rolled my eyes, but stopped. Art wasn’t a roll-the-eyes kind of guy. “I meant within the sex trafficking unit.”
“Me. I’m your supervisor. If you want to do something different, I’m the one to go to.”
“Good. Then what’s my next step?”
“Your boss has to recommend you.” He said it very matter-of-factly.
“I see. Would you consider doing that?”
“How about this? Why don’t you wait until you meet some of them this morning? If you think you mesh with the team, I’ll gladly recommend you.”
“Really?”
“Of course. Why wouldn’t I?”
“Because I’ve only been here for a little over two years.”
“True, but Isla, you’re a good agent. I think you’d be a great asset to them.”
“Art, I’m honored you feel that way.”
He dipped his head. “Let’s get some work done then, shall we? I need you on the computer, hunting down the rental on that warehouse.”
“Got it, chief.” I went to my desk and got to work.
The building was owned by Buck Properties. They in turn had a rental history a mile long, but the last renter’s name was a company called ABC, Inc. It sounded bogus to me, so I did a little research on it and couldn’t find a thing. My next move was to contact the owner. When I did, the rental agent answered.
“Hello, this is Agent Chambers with the FBI. I need some information on the warehouse owned by Buck Properties that you manage.”
“Which one would that be? We manage several.”
I looked at the address and told him.
“Yes. What type of information do you need?”
“It’s rented to a company called ABC, Inc. Whose name is on the rental agreement?”
“Please hold. I have to run a search in my records.”
He came back on the line and said, “The name on the lease is John Lee.”
“Do you have a phone number and address for him?”
“That information is private.”
“Did you hear who I am?”
“Yes, the FBI.”
“We can do this the easy way or the hard way. Mr. Lee is implicated in a crime. Are you aware of that?”
“No!”
“I can obtain a search warrant and get anything I need from you at this point. So, going back to my original question, what is his address and phone number?”
The man became cooperative after all. I scribbled down the information and thanked him.
Grabbing the piece of paper, I headed over to Art’s office. I knocked and he motioned for me to enter.
Dangling the piece of paper, I said, “I have your information. The name, number, and address of the man who rented the warehouse. But I have a feeling it’s not legit.” I handed it to him.
He laughed. “Yeah. John Lee is like John Doe, right?”
“My thoughts exactly.”
He tapped the numbers into his phone and waited. It actually went to a voicemail of someone claiming to be John Lee, but Art didn’t leave a message.
“Let’s see if we can get a history on this phone and I’ll send a couple of guys over to this address.”
“You need anything else?” I asked, leaning on his desk.
“Nope. Not until the sex trafficking team arrives.” He checked the time. “They’ll be here in about an hour.”
“Okay. I’ll join you back in here then.”
He gave me a thumbs-up and I went to grab more coffee.
Chapter Four
ACER
Thoughts of how useless I’d been kept bouncing through my head. Mom and Dad had gone above and beyond what any parent should do for their child, and time and again I’d tossed those opportunities away like trash. What kind of kid did that? A worthless one, that’s what. A change was in order and there was no time like the present. As soon as I got to Reynolds and Brax’s house, I was going to start researching the possibility of joining the FBI or some other law enforcement agency to assist in stopping human trafficking. My goal was set. If I couldn’t do that, then I’d join a group that was motivated to help these victims. I wouldn’t stand by and do nothing.
I walked into the house with a firm step. Reynolds was in the kitchen, pouring a glass of wine. “Do you want one?” she asked.
“No. I’ll get some water, though.”
“What’s that scowl on your face mean?”
“I’m a fucking loser. I’ve been nothing but a huge disappointment to my parents, and I know Brax feels the same.”
She opened her mouth and I knew she was getting ready to defend me, in some small way. Reynolds and I had a special bond. We’d always been close and when I found out that she and my brother were getting married, I was the happiest person around. She was the best girl I’d ever want for a sister-in-law.
“I know you’re going to say something positive, but seriously, Reynolds, I’m a fuck up. Mom and Dad have given me the world and I’ve wasted it. But tonight did something to me when I saw those women. It nailed me in the heart and gut. I want to do something to help. Maybe try and join the FBI or some other law enforcement agency to help stop this. I don’t know, but it’s really affected me.”
She didn’t say a word, but walked up and hugged me. That was Reynolds. When she let me go, the positive came out. Reynolds always saw the world as a glass half full. “I think that’s amazing you want to help. People like those women need advocates. I always knew this type of thing happened, but not at my back door. Maybe you can make a difference.”
“That’s what I want. To make a difference.”
“I suggest you start tonight. Jump on the computer and see what it takes to apply to the FBI.”
I did and discovered a bachelor’s degree, which I didn’t have, was a requirement.
Reynolds asked, “What about the local police? I’m sure they have a division that deals with this or the county sheriff’s department? Or a U.S. Marshall?”
I checked the U.S. Marshall website and it was the same as far as the degree went. Then I thought about it. But Reynolds was on the same track as I was.
“You know that little contract your parents wanted you to sign?”
“Um, yeah. I’m at the end of the rope there. I have until the end of the month and I have to move out.”
“How much more school do you need to get your degree?”
I scoffed. “At least two years, depending where I go and if my credits transfer. I wasted so much time and their money.”
“Do it. Finish. Then apply to the agency of your choice. In the meantime, volunteer somewhere.”
She may have somet
hing. Mom and Dad would be thrilled if I did this. “Where?”
“Where what?”
“Where should I go?”
She clapped her hands. “Here! Atlanta. You could even live with us. We have all this room and half the time, no one’s here. Of course, I’d have to check with Brax, but I’m sure he’d agree.”
This could work out great, if my brother agreed, and if Mom and Dad would pay my tuition. If they didn’t, I’d have to take out student loans.
“What school?”
She rattled off a couple, so I checked. “These two look great and one even has a major in criminal justice. What if Brax says no to me living here?”
A devious expression came over her face. “I have my ways of persuading him.”
Out came my hand again. “Stop. That’s my brother. Spare me the details.”
“Gah, Acer, you really are cute when you blush.”
“Only when I blush?”
She elbowed me in the ribs. “Stop fishing for compliments. Go call your parents and see what they say. I’ll call Brax.”
Mom and Dad were ecstatic after I explained everything.
Dad even went so far as to say, “Son, I’m proud of you for what you did.”
“But Dad, it was Reynolds who told me to call the FBI.”
“Still, you did it, and you’re going to fulfill a goal, which makes your mother and me extremely happy.”
It was the first time in years I’d heard him say anything like that. Of course, I hadn’t deserved those words at all before. I never asked for them but it was sure nice to hear, coming from him. I had great respect for both of my parents but I hadn’t acted like it in the past.
“Mom, Dad, I just want you to know how sorry I am for being such a screwup. Tonight made me realize how lucky I am to have parents like you two. I never let you know how much I appreciated you before but from now on, I will. I was a fool and an idiot. I plan on rectifying that though and making something of my life.”
“Acer, honey, we’ve always loved you. We’re just glad you’re finding your way,” Mom said.
My eyes filled with tears and I swiped them away before they had a chance to escape. “Thanks, Mom, Dad. I love you both more than I can say. I don’t deserve you.”
“Son, stop saying that. We knew you’d come around. We’re happy you finally did,” Dad said.
I told them I was going to apply to the local colleges tomorrow but I’d keep them informed on things.
When I went back to the kitchen, Reynolds was there, grinning. “Hey there, roomie.” Then she held out a fist. I bumped it as she jumped in the air.
“He’s sure about this?”
“Brax is actually happy. He’s glad there’ll be someone here when we’re gone and someone with me when he’s away.”
“Cool! Tomorrow, I fill out the applications, then head back to Mom and Dad’s to pack my stuff.”
“Acer, I bet they were excited.”
My eyes watered again. I blinked several times to stop the overflow so I didn’t look like a big-ass sissy. “Yeah, they were. I hope I can make them proud of me like they are the rest of the family.”
“They will be. They love you, you know.”
“Yeah, but I’ve been a thorn in their sides for too long. That’s ended as of today.”
Reynolds squeezed my arm. “I remember when you were a kid, flying around everywhere. I always thought you’d drive a race car.”
“Hah. That’s where my name came from. My mom was in love with Mario Andretti when she had me. Go figure.”
“Yeah, that’s what Brax said. Well, I’m off to bed. You can have either of the two rooms upstairs. I’ll see you in the morning.”
“Goodnight.”
I went up to bed and crashed. I had the best night’s sleep I could remember. It was probably because the guilt at feeling so directionless had finally dissipated.
After I showered in the morning, I got on the computer so I could apply to the colleges. Reynolds was up and poured me some coffee. She helped with the applications and I emailed the university I’d attended to request my transcripts. When that was finished, I offered to cook breakfast.
She laughed. “Do you have any idea what time it is?”
“No.”
“It’s getting close to noon already. How about lunch?”
“Fine. I’ll make you a grilled cheese.”
“You’re exactly like your brother.”
“It’s a Kent family specialty. Mom taught us all when we were young because we were always hungry.” As soon as I began heating up the pan, my phone rang. When I answered, it was Agent Sanderson.
“Can you come down to the field office? We have a team in here and we’d like to ask you some questions.”
“Sure. What time?”
“As soon as you can.”
He gave me the address and Reynolds asked if I wanted her to go with me. I told her no, so she quickly made me a sandwich and handed me that plus a drink as I headed out the door.
Chapter Five
ISLA
We followed up on all leads but every one led us nowhere. It was frustrating but whoever did this, knew how to stay completely under the radar. Everything was bogus—the name, the company. The phone was most likely a burner, but we’d find out soon enough. And the ship the women had come in on was listed as one registered in China that had imported computer parts. That was the only information we could find on it.
The sex trafficking team turned out to be part of Homeland Security. I was eager to know more about what they did. Three of them showed up at the office, but one of them, a woman named Anita, told me they had a training program if I was interested. I explained to her I’d prefer to transfer to an FBI unit and what she told me had me even more interested than ever. The statistics on sex trafficking crimes were staggering. They occurred all over the U.S. and were increasing every year. They not only affected women, but also men. I was determined more than ever to get involved because it affected people of all ages, even older adults.
We worked together until right before lunch, when Art called Acer. Admittedly, I was eager to see him again. Was it how he handled the situation last night that put him in such a good light? Or had I really been that attracted to him? I knew Mom was having that dinner get-together tonight for Mimi and I briefly wondered if he would go with Reynolds and Brax.
“What do you think, Isla?” Art asked.
I hadn’t been paying attention.
“Erm, about what?”
“Weren’t you listening?”
“Yes. You want to find out what happened to Acer’s friend.”
Art huffed out his exasperation. “Let’s take a break, everyone.” When the others filed out of the room, he said, “You’re on another planet.”
“Yeah. We need to dig into the dark web.”
He laughed. “We’re already doing that.”
“But don’t you find this whole thing odd?”
“How so?”
“I don’t know. Usually women like this are shipped out of the country, not brought in.”
“Not true. There are all sorts of underground prostitution rings in the U.S. that they could’ve been bought for.”
“You’re right. I guess this just leaves a rotten taste in my mouth.”
“Right now the only lead we have is Kent’s friend, who won’t answer our calls. The bureau sent someone over to his place, but he didn’t answer the door either. We’re waiting for a search warrant to be issued.”
“Art, do you think he was a part of this?”
He shrugged. “It’s anyone’s guess right now. But it’s all we have to go on. Come on. Let’s grab a bite before we have to get back to work.”
Shortly past noon, when Acer arrived, we reconvened in the conference room. He was visibly shaken when Art told him about his friend.
“He’s not there?”
“If he is, he’s not answering the door, which is why we’re getting a search warrant,” Art
explained.
“How long will that take because that’s not like the Paulie I know.”
“It shouldn’t take too long, considering the circumstances.”
Acer pulled his phone out from his pocket and made a call. It was obvious there was no answer and he said as much. “Paulie still isn’t responding. Why do you need a search warrant? Can’t you go in on a missing person’s report or something?”
Art nodded and said, “Do you honestly think something has happened to him and that he’s not avoiding us?”
“At this point, I don’t know anymore. But I’m telling you the Paulie I know wouldn’t have gotten himself involved in something like this. He may have been a little shady, and by that, he may have kept some of the money I was supposed to have earned, but not this.”
It was my boss’s turn to make a call. “Hey, is it possible to go into that apartment on a missing person’s report?”
Art glanced at Acer and asked, “When was the last time you spoke to him?”
“Yesterday in Savannah.”
“What time was that?”
“I guess it was around ten. It was right when I left to drive here.”
Art relayed that information and then said, “I realize it’s not been twenty-four hours, but Kent thinks something’s happened to him.” Pause. “Right, but what about going in under the guise that Kent thinks he’s hurt or ill.”
The scowl Art wore wasn’t a good sign. He ended the call and swore. “Those jackasses. They don’t want to involve the local boys so they’re saying no.”
“I don’t understand,” Acer said.
I answered this one. “Because your friend is in New York, this case crosses state lines. That makes it a federal issue. Also, kidnapping and human trafficking fall under our jurisdiction as well as Homeland Security’s. We generally don’t like to bring in the local authorities because it’s a matter of who handles what. It’s easier if one agency does it all.”
“But that’s stupid. What if his life is at stake? Isn’t there anything you can do?”
Art got up and left the room. I imagined he was going to tighten the grips on someone, but I couldn’t say who. He was fairly connected in the bureau, so maybe it was a higher up.