“When I got the photographs, I didn’t call a lawyer to destroy you. I called Naomi to understand the truth.”
“I didn’t know.”
“You weren’t supposed to.”
“What would you have done if tonight hadn’t happened?”
Lauren considered that.
“I would have asked you directly.”
“And if I confessed?”
“I don’t know.”
That was the first uncertain answer Lauren had given him all day.
Ethan’s eyes filled.
Lauren looked away.
“I need to go.”
“Lauren.”
She stopped.
“I’m sorry.”
Lauren nodded.
“I believe that too.”
Then she left.
Naomi’s condominium overlooked the river.
Private elevator.
Full-time doorman.
Cameras on every level.
Two police officers stationed downstairs.
For the first time in twenty hours, Lauren showered.
She stood beneath hot water until the smell of blood and antiseptic disappeared.
Then she cried.
Quietly.
For four minutes.
No screaming.
No collapsing.
No shattered glasses.
