**Chapter 6 — Lucas's Biggest Secret**
The Birthday Surprise
Chapter 6 — The FBI Wasn't Looking for an Affair
Ethan opened the front door to find two FBI agents standing beneath the porch lights. The man in front, David Mercer, displayed his badge while his partner remained a few steps behind.
"Mr. Harrison, I'm sorry to disturb you this late."
"What is this about?"
"We're investigating Lucas Miller."
Emily's heart nearly stopped.
Mercer stepped inside after Ethan nodded. His sharp eyes immediately noticed the abandoned birthday decorations, the untouched cake, and Emily's tear-stained face. It was obvious he had interrupted something terrible.
"I assume this isn't the best time," Mercer said.
"It isn't," Ethan replied. "But you're here."
Mercer opened a thin folder. "Mr. Miller has been under federal investigation for nearly eighteen months."
Ethan frowned. "For what?"
"Corporate fraud, money laundering, identity fraud, and conspiracy."
Emily's legs nearly gave out.
Mercer continued, "Our investigation suggests Lucas built personal relationships with wealthy executives to gain access to confidential financial information. In several cases, those relationships extended beyond business."
The room fell silent.
Ethan slowly turned toward Emily.
"Did you know?"
She immediately shook her head.
"I knew about... us."
"But I didn't know about any crime."
Mercer studied her face carefully. After years of interviewing suspects, he recognized genuine panic.
"We believe Mr. Miller manipulated more than one family," Mercer explained. "The question is whether you were another victim... or an accomplice."
Emily's voice trembled.
"I've never stolen anything."
Mercer nodded.
"Then I suggest you start telling us everything."
Before anyone could continue, Mercer's phone rang.
He listened for only a few seconds before his expression changed.
"What?"
He looked toward Ethan.
"Our surveillance team just lost Lucas."
"He disappeared thirty minutes ago."
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