Natalie texted.

Richard called.

Dad’s lawyer left voicemails asking me to cooperate with the family.

I ignored everything.

At the airport, I passed through the diplomatic security lane—a benefit of my job that probably would have impressed my family if they’d ever cared enough to understand my position.

From the international terminal, I called Agent Walsh.

“Deputy Chief Peton,” she answered. “Heading back to Vienna?”

“Yes. Director Morrison needs me there, but I’ll be available via secure channels for statements or testimony.”

“Understood. For what it’s worth, your parents are claiming they had no idea about the diplomatic status. They seem genuinely shocked.”

“They are,” I said. “Genuinely shocked that I’m not the incompetent they believed me to be. Genuinely shocked that their assumptions were wrong. Genuinely shocked that actions have consequences.”

“Harsh assessment,” Walsh observed.

“Accurate assessment,” I corrected. “They spent four years dismissing my career. Now, that career is the reason they’re facing federal charges. The irony isn’t lost on me.”

“Will you advocate for leniency?” Walsh asked.

“No,” I said simply. “I’ll tell the truth. What prosecutors do with that truth is their decision.”

“Fair enough. Safe travels, Deputy Chief.”

I boarded the flight.

Business class—another perk my family knew nothing about.

Somewhere over the Atlantic, I drafted my official statement for the State Department investigation.

Factual.

Detailed.

Completely unsentimental.

3 weeks later, Agent Walsh sent an encrypted update.

The investigation was complete.

My parents had been charged with unauthorized sale of federal property and fraud.

Meridian Property Holdings faced charges for attempting to purchase protected diplomatic property.

The transaction had been fully reversed, and the Spring Valley residence returned to my sole ownership.

My parents also had to return the $560,000 finder’s fee plus penalties.

A plea agreement kept them out of prison, but they received 2 years of probation, major fines, and a permanent flag on their professional licenses.

Dad’s three corporate board positions were suddenly at risk.

Boards generally disliked federal convictions.

Mom had to resign as chair of the hospital auxiliary.