Chapter 46

One document authorized the federal government access to my driver’s license and other federal and state information. Xavier handed me an ink pen as he spoke. “It’s necessary for us to get you a passport, that’s why you need to sign these papers.”

“Why do I need a passport, Xavier?”

As I asked, I saw the older agent with us arch his eyebrow. Gooding’s neck turned red while the older man explained.

“We believe this Ivan is either headed to a country that doesn’t have an extradition with the U.S., or to another country he may be more comfortable in, where he can blend in better, and where we would have difficulties.”

I nodded as I tried to remember what Ivan told me about his past.

“First, you need to fill out these other forms—this is the non-disclosure contract, and this is the independent contractor agreement before we can give you any specifics.”