A Visit to the Backlot

Her phone suddenly vibrated against the passenger seat. 

The encrypted caller ID simply read: *Boss.*

Harper collected her thoughts, took a deep breath, and answered the call through the car's Bluetooth system. 

"Jude?" 

Jude Lawson paused for a fraction of a second before speaking, his voice calm. "Are you out of the federal building?"

"I just got out." Harper forced a laugh and asked, "Did Director Vance panic and tell you?"

"Did the agents give you a hard time?" Jude ignored her question.

"No, I just answered whatever they asked." As Harper spoke. "Jude, I finally understand why you gave me that speech in the lobby yesterday. When I was sitting in that interrogation room, I was calm. My conscience was clear. I didn't have to worry that my words might trigger a perjury charge, and I didn't have to consider whether I should lie to cover for your offshore accounts."