Page 127 of Hidden Tide

“Close the door.”

The lieutenant obeys.

Keating turns to the two officers guarding the entrance.

“No one enters this room. If they attempt to force the door, you hold your positions unless I give the order to do otherwise.”

“Yes, sir.”

Agent Marquez takes the transfer order from the lieutenant.

She reads the first page, then examines the signature.

“This isn’t a request. Kessler is claiming emergency jurisdiction.”

“Can he do that?” Storm asks.

“Under certain circumstances.”

“Are these certain circumstances?” Willow asks.

“No.”

The answer comes quickly enough to make me breathe easier.

Marquez turns to Keating. “The prisoners were arrested following armed attacks on Coast Guard property and a private residence. Your agency and the sheriff’s department retain custody until the charges and jurisdiction are reviewed.”

“What about the evidence?” Ben asks.

“The evidence from Willow’s restaurant is under my control. The items recovered here are part of a joint federal and Coast Guard investigation.”

“Then Kessler can’t take any of it,” I say.

“He can try.”

A fist strikes the door.

“Special Agent Nolan Price, Pacific Maritime Interagency Task Force. Open the door.”

Marquez walks closer but doesn’t touch the handle.

“This is Special Agent Elena Marquez. State your purpose.”

“You have the order.”

“I have a document carrying Deputy Director Kessler’s electronic signature. I do not have an order approved by the United States Attorney’s Office.”

“We’ve been instructed to secure the prisoners and evidence.”

“By a man connected to this investigation.”

Silence follows.

Marquez looks at Keating and lowers her voice.

“He doesn’t know.”

“You believe Price is following orders?” Keating asks.