“Go into the living room. I’m going to bring in some water.”

Izzy took a few steadying breaths—something she’d been forcing herself to do since Jay had called yesterday. She sat down, and a minute later Viv walked into the room with a bottled water.

“Whatever it is, just tell me, and we’ll figure out a plan.”

Izzy smiled. “Thank you.” Viv was probably the quietest of the group of friends, but she had a huge heart. “This is a very difficult conversation to have.”

“Take it slow. I’m in no rush.”

Izzy closed her eyes for a second, asking God to help her. “Back when I was an officer for Arlington PD, I was assaulted by a sergeant.”

Viv’s eyes widened, but she didn’t say a word.

“I was able to fight him off and escape, but it was the scariest and most horrific time of my life. It happened late at night in his office. My clothes were ripped, my body was bruised. But more than that, I was severely traumatized by it.”

“I’m sure you were,” Viv said softly. “Izzy, I had no idea about any of this.”

“I’ve only ever told a few people about it, but it’s definitely shaped my life and continues to impact me personally and my relationships.”

Viv took her hand. “Whatever I can do, just name it.”

Izzy decided it was best to just spit it out. “The sergeant who assaulted me was murdered three days ago, and Arlington PD wants to talk to me.”

Viv’s mouth dropped open, and she didn’t immediately respond.

“Yeah, that’s how I felt too.” She wasn’t surprised by Viv’s reaction. Izzy had kept this secret so closed off that there was no way anyone would have had any suspicion.

“Do they think you could have something to do with this?” Viv’s voice cracked.

“I haven’t talked to them yet because I need to get a lawyer. You know Aiden’s dad, Jay, the one I worked with before? He’s the one who told me. He’s also the one who urged me to get help initially when I was struggling.” She took a breath. “But he’s not the reason I need a lawyer.”

“Then why?”

“I think I know why the police want to question me.”

“All right. Before you say anything else, I need you to request me to represent you.”

“What?” Izzy didn’t understand what was happening.

“It won’t be a long-term representation, but given the legal implications of what I think you’re going to say, I want this conversation to be protected by attorney-client privilege.”

Izzy wasn’t sure how this all worked, but she trusted Viv. “Okay. I’d like you to represent me.”

“I accept. Please continue.”