The GPS led them to Mrs. Hamilton’s mother’s house in Chantilly, twenty-five miles outside the city in the western part of Fairfax County. The two-story brick colonial was located on a street made up of similar houses. Outside the house in question, a porch light was on over the front door and lights were on inside, which was a relief. If they had to deliver devastating news, at least they wouldn’t have to wake her up to do it. The three men approached the door, and Hill rang the bell.

He retrieved his badge from his coat pocket, and showed it to Courtney Hamilton when she came to the door. She was a petite blonde who was known for her love of tennis, martinis and philanthropic activities in the D.C. area.

“Special Agent Hill, Mrs. Hamilton. This is Chief Farnsworth and Captain Malone from the Metro D.C. police department. I wondered if we might have a few minutes of your time?”

“Of course.” Eyeing them warily, she stepped aside to admit them, giving no indication she recognized Avery. them, giving no indication she recognized Avery. “What’s this about? I talked to Josh earlier, and he’s fine. I don’t know why you were looking for him or what Troy was thinking issuing that statement. Josh isn’t on any medication that I know of.”

She’s nervous, Avery deduced. The run-on sentences and jerky movements were out of character for the woman Avery had met a number of times at Bureau events and get-togethers at the director’s home, where Avery had found her to be a smooth, elegant, gracious hostess. The perfect wife for a high-ranking government official.

They took seats in the living room, and Courtney lowered the volume on the television.

“Mrs. Hamilton,” Avery said, hating his job passionately in that moment, “I’m afraid we have some difficult news.”

“Not Josh! I just talked to him!”

“It’s not Josh.” Avery forced himself to continue, to say the words, to put it out there and let her begin to deal with the unimaginable loss. “It’s your husband.”

“What about him?”

“He was found dead in your home earlier tonight.”

She tipped her head, as if trying to make sense of what he’d said. “Troy’s not dead. I talked to him earlier too. He was doing paperwork and going to bed early.”

“What time did you speak with him?” Malone asked.

“I don’t know exactly.” As she spoke, her hands trembled. “It was this afternoon sometime. I’m sure he’s fine. I can call him now for you if you’d like.”

“Mrs. Hamilton,” Farnsworth said, saving Avery from having to do it. “I’m afraid Agent Hill is correct. Your husband was attacked and killed in his home. His body was found on the floor of his study.”