You really think they couldnt find me? Come on, Ms. Hunt, dont be naïve. If I run, that will make them even more suspicious of me and more likely to take action. At least now, they see that Im just leading my life, not acting as some kind of threat. If I run, theyll assume Ive spilled, and theyll decide to eliminate me.

Jessie was desperate to convince him otherwise. It wasnt just about the case now. It wasnt just about his dead ex-wife. It was her fault that his life was in danger. He had put his trust in her and shed failed him. She had to help him. She had to be straight with him.

Mr. Estrada, theres nothing preventing them from doing that right now, she insisted. At some point, theyre going to decide that leaving you alive isnt worth the risk. Thats when youll have a car crash or suffer a drug overdose. They can make it look like an unfortunate accident. At least if youre under FBI protection, they have to think twice. Theyd know that anything that happened to you then would put them at real risk. Either way, your old life is over. But if you come with me now, you might still have one.

Estrada stared off into the distance. Jessie didnt know if he was considering her idea or just remembering better times. Whatever it was, when he looked back at her, she knew immediately that hed made the wrong choice.

I cant, he said. I have clients who need me. I have elderly parents and a sister with kids. They could be put at risk if I run. If I pretend none of this happened and just lead my regular life, maybe these people will leave me alone. Even if they take me out, thats where it ends.

Jessie nodded. She could tell there was no point in pressing him further.

Give me your phone, she told him.

He handed it over without asking why.

Heres my number, she said, adding it to his contacts. If you change your mind, call me and ask me if Millys personal effects are available to be picked up. Tell me where to have them dropped off. Thatll be the sign for me to have a team pick you up immediately.

He looked at the number, then back up at her.

Thank you, he said. But I wont be calling. Ill walk you out now.

He led her back to the side gate, unlocked it, and opened it slightly.

Think of it as your emergency SOS call, she pleaded. Good to have it, even if you dont need it.

Thats sweet, he said resignedly. But we both know youre already talking to a dead man.