Chapter 53 Summary
Charley Williams is relaxing at a coffee shop when she receives a troubling call from Special Agent Rodriguez with the FBI in St. Croix. He informs her that while the kidnapping file she reported will likely be closed, she is being summoned to a hearing to determine whether she’ll face charges for filing a false report—a felony offense. Shocked and overwhelmed, Charley tries to defend her initial actions but is told she should obtain legal counsel. The call ends abruptly, leaving her emotionally shattered.
Meanwhile, Robert Jackson arrives early at a Thai restaurant to meet Joe Carter. While waiting for their usual booth, he chats with Shu-Chuan, the cheerful server, and reflects on an email from Janet Faber containing his Quest access credentials.
Still reeling, Charley steps away from the coffee shop to call Mark Peltier, venting her anger and fear over the potential criminal charges. Mark is horrified by the news and promises to help, even offering to pay for legal representation. Charley reminds him of his limited finances, referencing an earlier investigation that exposed his accounts. Despite this, Mark reassures her that she won’t go through this alone and promises to take responsibility if needed.
Mark then contacts Colonel Daniel Weaver, demanding action. He argues that the situation stems from Weaver’s operation and insists the military help Charley find legal support. Though Weaver says the JAG Corps can't represent civilians, he concedes that retired JAG lawyers might be able to assist and agrees to look into it. Mark ends the call forcefully, urging Weaver to leverage his rank and make it happen.
