Because of this, he said, pulling a thumb drive out of his pocket. It looked like the same one he gave her yesterday.

Is that what I think it is?

He nodded.

I came home early today, he told her. I couldnt concentrate at work. When I went into my office, I found it on my desk, along with this note.

He handed over a small piece of paper with a briefed typed message: WE KNOW.

Jessies heart sank. She understood why Estrada was so freaked out. She couldnt blame him. But even as she felt sympathy for his plight, her mind was processing her own.

As evidence, the note was mostly useless. She could collect it, but hed already handled it, compromising it. She doubted that whoever had left it was foolish enough to leave personal traces anyway. Besides, the paper and type were pretty standard. There was no way to distinguish where it came from. Worse, the statement we know was general enough that, even if they found the culprit, it would be hard to charge them with anything more than breaking and entering. It wasnt technically a threat.

We can check the security footage, she offered lamely. Maybe thatll reveal something.

Thats not the point, Ms. Hunt, and you know it. I gave this drive to you yesterday for safekeeping and a day later I get it back, completely wiped clean, by the way. This is a clear message to me. Shut up or you end up like that detective. I hear it loud and clear.

Jessie knew it was pointless to argue with him. He was right. She was supposed to be someone he could count on and shed failed him. Worse, she couldnt promise him that it wouldnt happen again. She motioned for him to follow her to the corner of the yard, far from the house. When he got there, she spoke quietly.

Youre obviously already aware that if they broke into your house to leave the drive, theyve likely bugged it too. I wouldnt be surprised if they did the same at your office. Theyve likely geo-tagged your car as well. I wouldnt trust that your phone is secure either.

Youre really bucking me up here, he replied sarcastically, his shoulders sagging notably.

I just want to be straight with you, Mr. Estrada. Clearly, we underestimated the resources and commitment of the people who want to keep this secret. Thats on me. But I can still help you.

How? he asked beseechingly.

Im friendly with an FBI agent. I can make one call and get you put in protective custody.

Im not testifying, he insisted.

This isnt about that. Well find a way to protect you, whether its formally part of the WITSEC program or not. We can get in a car now and go to his office.

He shook his head.