Chapter 9 Under Suspicion

Agent Carter's presence loomed in the room, his expression unshaken.

"Ms. Benson," he began, his voice steady and firm, "we understand you're dealing with a difficult situation regarding your career and the media attention," he said. "But I'm here about something more crucial." Agent Carter's voice grew more solemn.

I was perplexed and speechless. "Please go on," I forced the words from my mouth.

Agent Carter responded, "Ms. Benson, we have considerable evidence linking you to illegal activities..."

I interrupted, eyes widened in shock, and exclaimed, "Wait, what? Illegal?"

"Yes," Agent Carter acknowledged. "A source from the agency you work for, All-Star Best and Creative Agency, supplied us with accurate proof, and your name has been affirmed recurrently with the embezzlement of funds from the agency."

My face went pale. "My name? How could I possibly be engaged in a thing like that?"

My heart sank as I had to deal with the claims. I became absorbed in contemplation, scarcely able to keep my composure.

"This is absurd," I said under my breath.

As the heated discussion continued, Belle's footsteps echoed down the corridor, her delightful humming in opposition to the gravity of the situation. She went around the kitchen, arranging the food and talking to herself, oblivious to the tension in the next room.

Agent Carter maintained a steady look, carefully outlining the evidence, and spoke in a consistent tone.

"The records reveal that you have been involved in discreet discussions and meetings, as well as having possession of highly classified transactions that are essential to our investigation..."

He carried on: "...and suggests you as a part of an organization involved in money laundering, and other illegal activities."

"I am just an actress. I do not have accessibility to such details, nor am I associated with any. These charges are outrageous. I'm so lost," I insisted, my voice desperate.

Agent Carter's look was uncompromising. We understand your reaction. However, the data we've gathered says differently. The record includes specific interactions and activities involving you. Your connection could be direct or indirect, but it puts you under suspicion."

"May I possibly have an accounting of these records?" I queried, my voice filled with pain.

"Yes, sure," Agent Carter replied. "I didn't bring them with me, but we can provide them when you come in for further questioning."

My eyes widened in disbelief and dread. "Whoa. This is serious. Come in for more questioning. As an actress, I feel as if I am living in a movie."

Agent Carter's demeanor remained stern. "You, Ms. Benson, are the major suspect. We could request you to come in for more questioning to clarify your involvement."

As I tried to understand the enormity of the situation, I was overcome with frustration and despair. Agent Carter's unshakable demeanor further heightened the gravity of the allegations, leaving me pondering how my life had turned into such a nightmare.

Despite my anxiety, my fascination grew. "May I ask, who is this informant?", I inquired.

"We are unable to release such information at this time. "It's confidential," said Agent Carter, his tone firm.

I pondered about the last few months. There were closed-door meetings, hidden communications, and unexplained absences from important employees. At the time, I attributed it to the pressures of the entertainment industry. But such instances appeared to carry hidden significance.

"I recollect specific things," I said softly. "There were conferences I wasn't permitted to join, and everyone seemed frightened. But I didn't think much about it."

Agent Carter nodded and jotted down notes. "This is useful, Ms. Benson."

As my best friend and colleague, I was unable to ignore Jasmine's strange silence. I had anticipated her defense or support. I wondered if she thought I was involved. However, I dismissed the thought.

Suddenly, a soft buzz broke through the deep silence. Jasmine's phone vibrated from an incoming call. She glanced at the screen and gasped as she pressed the button to quiet it. She set the phone facing down on the side table, her fingers nervously drumming on it.

I noticed, "Agent Carter, if you'll pardon me for a moment," I said.

The agent grinned with a vague expression. I shifted my gaze and turned to face Jasmine. "Jasmine, if it's important, you can step aside to answer it," I offered gently.

Jasmine shook her head and tightened her lips into a thin line. "No, Izalea. It's fine. I'll call again after the assessment," she maintained, her tone stern but friendly.

I pondered for a moment before nodding. "Alright, if you say so."

Jasmine gave a quick, calming grin, and I resumed my attention to Agent Carter.

Agent Carter turned toward Jasmine. "Ms. Buckler, considering you are likewise an actress in the agency, can you provide any additional details or information?"

"Oh, uhm, I wish I could be of help, but I don't have any information right now. If I notice anything, I'll definitely stay in touch," Jasmine said.

"That's fine, Miss," Agent Carter reassured.

Jasmine's phone lit up again with a message tone; she took it up and read it, looking delighted. She scoffed but kept her reaction hidden before returning it to the table.

My thoughts stuck on Jasmine. I couldn't get the feeling that Jasmine was hiding something. What is she keeping from me? The question lingered on me, adding to an already difficult situation.

Agent Carter then focused his attention on me. "Ms. Benson, you reported a few days ago that a black SUV was following you?"

I was taken aback but I assumed it was logical for an FBI agent to be informed of such. My lips sprang open to ask how he knew, but I hesitated and decided to answer.

"Yes, it was terrifying. The driver never swayed making the ride exceedingly exhausting." My curiosity was piqued, so I inquired. "Nevertheless, how did you learn about it?

Agent Carter smiled in the agreement. "We have been monitoring you to collect evidence. The car you identified was ours."

My imagination whirled as I attempted to piece every detail together. "Well, I'm certainly indicted, and I know nothing about these charges."

"I understand that it is disturbing," Agent Carter replied thoughtfully. "If you recall more information or sense something suspicious, please contact me right away."

He smiled as he presented me his card. "Your cooperation is important, and we apologize for any inconvenience," Agent Carter remarked quietly. "We intend to keep in touch."

As Agent Carter turned to depart, Belle walked into the living room, carrying a tray of food.

"Less I forget, Ms. Belle," Agent Carter said, turning back to her. "As Ms. Benson's assistant, we may visit you soon or call you in for questioning."

Belle's eyes widened in surprise, a worried expression crossing her face. "Huh! Oh, okay, Agent Carter," she stammered.

With a nod, Agent Carter exited, leaving a heavy silence in his wake. Belle set the tray down, her hands trembling slightly. With concern, she glanced between Jasmine and me. "Is everything all right? Both of you seem quite... agitated."

I attempted a grin to hide my nervousness. "Thank you for bringing this," I said before I continued, "I am being charged with the embezzlement of funds from the agency, money laundering, and other illicit acts."

Belle's worried eyes widened.

I glared at Belle, my face strained and gloomy. "Do you have any knowledge about this, Belle?"

"No, Ms. Izalea, I am clueless. This is unbelievable." Belle responded worriedly.

Jasmine was uncomfortable; she had not spoken anything for the majority of the discussion with Agent Carter. I perceived her unease. "You're not saying much, Jasmine. Were you aware of this? Anything you haven't disclosed?"

Glancing down at her hands, Jasmine hesitated. "Izalea, I don't know much. I've heard some rumors, but nothing official. I had no idea they would be related to you, nor was it this bad." Jasmine said, a hint of shaking in her voice.

I inhaled deeply as I felt the pressure of the allegations and the heated environment. "It's alright. All I need to know is who I can trust. Belle, thank you for the breakfast."

"Of course, Ms. Izalea. Whatever happens, I'm always here to support you and will do everything to get you through this," Belle reassured.

"Izalea, Belle, I have to go. I got a message during the conversation with the FBI," Jasmine said, her voice trembling slightly. "My brother got into an accident."

My concern was immediate. "Oh no, Jasmine, I am so sorry! Do you need me to accompany you?"

Jasmine shook her head firmly. "No, Izalea. You have a lot to worry about. I'll be okay, honestly."

Belle's brows pinched in anxiety. "Are you sure, Jasmine? That sounds serious."

"Yes, I'm sure," Jasmine replied, attempting to appear more confident. "I will keep you both updated. Please do not fret."

I unwillingly nodded, my heart filled with concern for her. "Okay, but please, let us know if you need anything."

Jasmine gave a short, reassuring smile before hurrying out the door. As she went, Belle and I expressed worry, hoping for the best.