Chapter 83 Summary
Javon Morris and two agents race to the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, and search the wooded area near the Gateway Arch, initially fearing they have been misled. Their search pays off when they discover Roger Cortez bound to a tree, gagged with duct tape, and clearly injured. After freeing him and securing the scene, they escort Cortez back to the FBI building, where he is given water and questioned. Cortez claims he was randomly attacked during a walk, maintaining his innocence despite the obvious signs of restraint and assault.
Once the warrants arrive, Javon formally places Cortez under arrest for the kidnapping and possible murder of Walter Jenkins. As Cortez angrily protests, he inadvertently reveals his awareness of Bravo’s role, realizing too late that he has been manipulated and exposed. During a search, agents recover personal items and a concealed burner phone from Cortez’s jacket, triggering his emotional collapse. With the evidence mounting and Cortez’s composure shattered, Javon orders him processed and escorted to a holding cell, marking the decisive turning point in the case against him.
