Tax Audit advice

I am being audited over my 2017 returns. My paid preparer sent them some additional documentation, and the IRS refused to accept (as he said they would likely do). And a couple months later I got another letter saying I owe money and I could face wage garnishment, etc etc. I'm bored right now and don't have the exact details in front of me, as to exactly what they want. Something regarding come "Schedule C" documents of some sort.

The amount owed is approx. 7K. It's costing me about $100/qtr in interest.

Tax guy says keep fighting and let it drag on, thinking they will go away. I do have the money to simply pay them, but of course I'd prefer to not send the govt a check for $7K and would prefer working out a plan of some sort.

I'm just wondering what the money board would suggest. Any COVID related excuses/ situations that can be taken advantage of? Other tactics?

For the record, I openly ask my tax guy to "walk the line" but not to be stupid. I don't mind being audited and if I end up having to pay some of it back then so be it. I feel I pay too much in taxes and I'm not afraid to try and get back every last dime I can from them. And if the IRS doesn't agree, then they can do a little work to come and get it. I am their favorite type of person to go after. I make good money but far from rich enough to fight them past a certain point. I'm the shmuck who keeps going to work every day to support them and who more often than not will just pay in order for them to go away.