Logan hesitated. "We found references to a clandestine criminal network that had infiltrated businesses, government offices, and law enforcement. People whispered about it, but no one spoke its name aloud."
"The organization you warned me about."
"Yes."
Xander's voice remained steady.
"Did they come after all of you?"
Logan gave a bitter smile.
"At first, no. They watched us. Strange cars outside our homes. Anonymous phone calls. Files disappearing from locked cabinets. Friends suddenly refusing to meet us."
He lowered his gaze.
"Then the accidents began."
"What kind of accidents?"
"A witness died in a house fire. An investigator vanished without a trace. A journalist covering the case was killed in what police ruled a robbery."
The silence between them grew heavier.
"We finally understood the message," Logan said quietly. "Stop asking questions... or your families would pay the price."
Xander's jaw tightened.
"My father ignored the warning."
"He did."
