“Maybe. But it’s a real fear. And what will I do if I’m not a cop? The work gets in your blood.”

“I know that.”

“What does a thirty-four-year-old former cop with poor vision do?” So far, she had not come up with any answers. Maybe he had one.

“I really hope you do get your sight back. I do. But you’re smart, adaptable, and should consider a plan B.”

“Such as?”

“Prosecutor. Advocate. Teacher. The academy needs good training instructors.”

“When you decided to be a ranger, did you have a plan B?”

“No, but I’m hardheaded with more nerve than common sense.” A smile softened the words. “You’re a woman who knows better. You’ve been challenged before and come out on the other side.”

His ideas all required extensive thought on her part. Sally had mentioned braille, but that would be like learning a new language.

Right now, the future was too much to consider. “First, let me put this case behind me. Then I’ll think about the future.”

“Cases can drag on. Life won’t wait for you.”

Again, more she did not want to consider.

A car pulled up to the curb as her phone chimed with a text. This was her first Uber ride since the attack. Another one for her Book of Firsts. “Looks like my ride is here.”

Spencer checked the app on her phone for the car’s make and model, confirmed the driver’s name and also Jordan’s. “Yes, this is your car.” Spencer offered his elbow and guided her to the vehicle. “I’m still happy to give you a ride.”

“I need to do this alone because, believe it or not, I’m just as hardheaded as you.”

“Help me.” Spencer patted her on the shoulder. “Ryan, you make really sure this lady gets to where she needs to go, or I will hunt you down.”

She heard the man shift. And she had to smile. “Thanks, Spencer.”

“Will keep you updated, Detective Poe.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN

CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN

Friday, April 23

9:30 a.m.

Avery’s first fifteen minutes at the café were fun. She liked catching up with her former coworkers and favorite morning customers who recognized her and being in the place that had helped stabilize her two years ago after rehab.

But after the initial meet and greet, she and the coworkers ran out of things to talk about. Beyond bitching about the small break room in the back, the lousy parking, and the pros and cons of the latest flavor of coffee, they did not have so much in common. Since she had sobered up, she recognized that daily chatter created the illusion of closeness, but it was smoke and mirrors.