“No worries. And spread the word that I don’t want any tiptoeing around me. If you have a question, ask it.”

“How much can you see?” he asked.

They could ask, but that did not mean she had to be totally honest. “Not enough to drive or shoot my weapon.”

“Fair enough.”

More cops came up, shook her hand, introduced themselves. There were offers for grass-cutting services, grocery store runs, and chauffeuring. She should have been thrilled, but she resented being on the receiving end.

Finally, the welcome sound of Avery’s clunky car engine rumbled near the curb. The freedom car had arrived. Captain Lee, however, was in no real rush to deposit her in the car, and as much as she wanted to demand he end this dog and pony show, she kept her cool. She might be a basket of nerves, but she sure as hell would not broadcast it.

The wheels rolled a few more inches toward the car. When she got home, she was going to lie on the couch and drink a cold soda. It was not on the outpatient protocol sheet, but she did not care.

“Detective Poe,” Captain Lee said. “I would like to introduce you to Angela Richards. She’s a local reporter.”

Jordan stuck out her hand.

“Nice to meet you,” came from the three-o’clock position.

Jordan shifted her hand and felt the reporter’s firm grip. “You were at the press conference last week.”

“That’s right. I’d like to interview you,” Angela said.

“I was telling her about the case you were working with the Texas Rangers,” Captain Lee said.

So now it was with the Rangers. She wondered if Spencer was in the crowd. “Really?”

“Exposure will engage the public in your hunt for this killer,” Angela said.

It would also engage the killer. “I need a few days to get settled.”

“Sure, of course. If it’ll help, I can email questions to you ahead of time.”

And she would read them with what? “Perfect.”

“Terrific.” Angela sounded pleased with herself.

“Jordan,” Avery said.

Thank God, the cavalry.

“I need to pull her away, Captain Lee.” Avery spoke with authority.

Jordan remembered her fourteen-year-old self arguing with a four-year-old Avery, who always walked away with the victory, whether it was an extra cookie or another bedtime story. “Sorry. She’s the boss.”

“The doctor was clear about her getting rest,” Avery said.

“Right,” Captain Lee said.

Jordan held up her hand and waved to the guys, who she assumed were to her right and left. “Thanks, guys. I’ll be back on the job harassing you all soon enough.”

The cheer was filled with enthusiasm, but she was not sure if they believed it any more than she did. If she could see their expressions, she would have a better read of the crowd. But for now, her other senses would have to step up to the plate.