“Can you do it?” I asked.
“I can.” He said.
“Quietly.” I said.
“I understand.” He said.
He walked away without asking more questions, and I returned to work.
I tried to forget about it, but the thought stayed in the back of my mind.
By late afternoon, Derek sent me a message.
MOST OF IT CHECKS OUT. I NEED TO TALK TO YOU.
I immediately stepped into the office and called him.
“What did you find?” I asked.
“Nothing major.” He said.
“That doesn’t sound reassuring.” I said.
“It’s not supposed to.” He said and I leaned against the desk.
“Start from the beginning.” I said.
“His address is legitimate, his driver's license checks out, and his employment history matches what he gave you.” He said.
“That’s good.” I said.
“It is.” He said.
“And?” I asked.
“There are three previous em
