Beneath the aggression and poor judgment, Mitchell was beginning to understand the seriousness of the situation.
Daniel nodded slightly.
"That's a good place to start."
Hayes turned toward Mitchell.
"Remove the detective's handcuffs."
Mitchell immediately retrieved the key.
A moment later, the restraints fell away.
Daniel rubbed his wrists.
"Thank you."
Then his phone vibrated again.
Another unknown number.
He answered without hesitation.
"Cross."
A woman's voice responded.
"Daniel, it's Eleanor."
His expression changed.
"Director?"
"Listen carefully. You need to leave that location immediately."
"Why?"
"Because the investigation has been compromised."
"I know."
"No, Daniel. You don't understand. This isn't about the missing evidence anymore."
Daniel looked toward Lawrence.
"Then what is it about?"
The woman hesitated.
Then she whispered:
"Someone has been using your credentials to authorize operations you never approved."
Daniel went completely still.
"How long?"
"Six months."
Daniel's eyes narrowed.
"Who?"
The answer came quietly.
"Your deputy director."
Daniel looked at the black SUV.
Lawrence was no longer smiling.
"Director, are you certain?"
"I wouldn't be calling you if I weren't."
Daniel took a slow breath.
"Where is he now?"
"At headquarters."
Daniel looked toward Captain Hayes.
Then toward Mitchell.
He understood that the night was far from over.
"Director, I need you to listen to me. Whatever happens next, don't trust anyone who arrives claiming to represent your office."
A brief silence followed.
Then Eleanor asked: