“Which is why we’re moving fast,” Turner replied. “By the time Stone realizes what’s happening, we’ll already be broadcasting live to thousands of viewers.” Wilson’s expression was grim but determined. “Agent Shaw, thirty years of corruption is about to end. But you need to understand—once we start this process, there’s no going back. Stone will do everything in his power to stop us.”
Beverly woke to the sound of keys rattling in her cell door. Officer Davis stood in the corridor, his expression grim. “Shaw, you’re being transferred to county lockup in Phoenix. Transport leaves in one hour.” Beverly’s blood ran cold. The hearing was scheduled for that afternoon. If she was transferred to Phoenix, she’d miss her chance to expose Stone’s operation.
“What’s the reason for the transfer?” “Overcrowding,” Davis replied without conviction. “County has better facilities for federal prisoners.” Beverly knew it was a lie. Desert Springs had held her for three days without any mention of overcrowding. This transfer was Stone’s way of removing her from the equation permanently.
As Davis escorted her to the processing area, Beverly caught sight of Stone in his office, speaking on the phone. His body language was agitated, aggressive. The posture of a man whose carefully constructed empire was under threat. During processing, Beverly was allowed one final phone call. She dialed Turner’s number, praying he would answer.
“Turner here.” “It’s Beverly. They’re transferring me to Phoenix in an hour.” “We know. Wilson’s already filed emergency papers to block the transfer, but Stone’s people are fighting it. We might have a narrow window.” Beverly lowered her voice as Davis approached. “If something happens to me during this transfer—”
“Nothing’s going to happen. We’ve notified federal authorities, state police, and media contacts. Too many people are watching now.” But as Beverly was led to the transport vehicle, she saw the driver—Deputy Miller, Stone’s most loyal enforcer. And sitting in the passenger seat was a man she didn’t recognize—broad-shouldered, wearing civilian clothes with the kind of dead eyes she’d learned to associate with professional killers.
The vehicle wasn’t heading toward Phoenix. Beverly could tell from the sun’s position that they were driving south toward the desert where bodies could disappear forever. As the police station faded in the rearview mirror, Beverly realized that Stone had decided the risk of exposure was too great. He wasn’t just trying to silence her legally anymore. He was planning to silence her permanently.
While Beverly was being driven into the desert, Sheriff Stone was implementing the second phase of his damage control strategy. He personally led a convoy of patrol cars to Martha Williams’ small house on Cactus Street. Martha was waiting for them. She’d lived in Desert Springs long enough to recognize the sound of approaching trouble, and she’d spent the morning implementing her own backup plan.