Chapter 84 Summary

The chapter begins with Thomas Allen calling Samir Patel to share the good news: he, Robert Jackson, and Samir have been completely cleared of any wrongdoing in the Quest project debacle. Samir, surprised to learn that legal action had even been considered, is relieved. Allen invites him to a celebratory weekend at his home in San Francisco with Robert.

Samir explains that he already has plans to attend a baseball game with Tyler Winslow on Saturday. Allen encourages him to join the celebration afterward and to bring Tyler along. Samir checks with Tyler, who agrees to the plan. After confirming, Samir calls Allen back to say they’ll come after the game.

Allen then contacts Robert, who is torn between spending time with Kathy and reuniting with his former colleagues. Ultimately, he decides to go and books a flight, texting Allen his travel details.

Meanwhile, Officer Charley Williams prepares for her disciplinary hearing. She is physically and emotionally drained from lack of sleep. After checking out of her hotel, she meets with Wesley Parker, her legal counsel, though she’s too anxious to eat.

They take a taxi to the Almeric L. Christian Federal Building and Courthouse, with Charley riding in the front seat due to her queasiness. Upon arrival, they are directed to the hearing room. Charley steps out to find a washroom while Parker introduces himself to the FBI Internal Affairs team. When Charley returns, the hearing preparations begin. Microphones are set up for the session recording. When asked if she has any questions before the hearing starts, Charley suppresses her frustration and tersely replies “No.” Her body language and tone reflect a mix of fatigue, anxiety, and simmering resentment.

With that, Special Agent Trimble officially opens the hearing.