Over the next few days, Max worked quietly, gathering information, speaking with those who knew but remained silent out of fear or loyalty. He found allies in unexpected places: a nurse at the hospital, an old high school friend on the police force, even a disillusioned member of the Perry household staff. Each piece of information was a brick in the wall he was building—a wall that would contain Brad Perry and bring him to justice.

The night before he planned to confront Brad, Max sat alone, reviewing his plan. He knew the risks. The legal system might be flawed, but he couldn’t be reckless. He had to be smart, precise. This was a mission, no different than those he had faced overseas.