Farnsworth reached for the landline extension that sat on the coffee table and dialed a number, keeping his steely stare fixed on her. “This is Chief Farnsworth. Put me through to Conklin.” After a pause, he said, “Hey, it’s me. I’m with Holland and we need an APB for Josh Hamilton.” He provided a description based on the photo Sam had shown him. “I want everyone looking for him. Notify Maryland and Virginia State Police. He was last seen on foot in the Crystal City area just over an hour ago. If we find him, take him into protective custody.” After a pause, he said, “Yes, she knows she suspended. I’ll fill you in later. Ask for hourly reports from Patrol.”

He ended the call and put the phone on the table.

“What do we do now?”

“You are doing nothing. You’re going home to tend to your sick husband and son.”

“Josh Hamilton trusts me, Chief.”

“He trusts you so much he ran from you, Lieutenant.”

Sam forced herself to remain calm. “When you find him, you’ll want me there. He knows I’m on his side.”

“You’re not on anyone’s side! You’re on suspension. This matter no longer involves you—and I hate to point out the obvious, but it never should’ve involved you.”

“But—”

“Go home, Lieutenant. Do yourself—and me—a big favor and stay home until Wednesday morning at zero seven hundred. Do I make myself clear?”

She bit back the retort that was dying to get out. “Yes.”

His brow lifted.

“Yes, sir.”

“You ought to know that I spoke with Forrester yesterday. He’s going to request a meeting with you tomorrow. I’d recommend you have an attorney present. Ramsey’s not letting it go, and frankly, I don’t blame him. I expect better from you than how you handled that situation.”

“I’m sorry to disappoint you, sir.” Not even his disappointment, which mattered greatly to her, could change the fact that Ramsey had gotten exactly what he’d deserved.

“You want to know the only reason Forrester hasn’t already filed charges?”

Not really, but she couldn’t say that, could she? “Um, sure?”

“Because you’re the second lady, and he’s not looking forward to the feeding frenzy that’ll erupt if he charges you.”

“Don’t let that stop him,” she said drily.

“You think this is funny, Sam?”

“No, I don’t. I think it’s ridiculous.”

“Did you or did you not assault a fellow officer?”

“I did. I absolutely did. And I’d absolutely do it again in light of what he said and how he said it. In fact, I’m so certain that he deserved it, maybe I’ll just plead guilty and save Forrester the trouble of prosecuting the second lady.”

“If you plead guilty to felony assault charges, your career as a police officer is over.”

“So be it.”