Tracy followed Sam into the hallway and hugged her. “Thank you so much for everything.”

“It’s nothing you wouldn’t do for me.”

“It’s way above and beyond, and we both know it.”

“We can have this fight another time,” Sam said with a teasing smile. “Your daughter needs you, and I’ve got to get to work.” She glanced through the glass at Brooke, who was hugging Norman and staring up at the ceiling, probably trying to process everything she’d learned about what had happened the other night. “I’m going to ask Jeannie to come in and talk to her. It might help for her to talk to someone who’s been through it and survived.”

“That’s a wonderful idea. I hate to say it, but I think this might’ve been a true wake-up call for her. I hope things will be different from here on out.”

“You may still hit some bumps on the road, but she’s learned a valuable lesson.”

“Let’s hope some good came of it.”

“I’ll check in later.”

On the way to work, Sam called Jeannie, hoping it was okay to ask this kind of favor of her colleague and friend, who had been through such a hideous ordeal. “I was wondering if you might have time to go by the hospital and speak to my niece Brooke. She’s just found out what happened to her the other night, and needless to say, she’s extremely upset. I know it’s a lot to ask—”

“Of course I will, Sam. I’d be glad to.”

“I hope you know I’m asking this as your friend and not your lieutenant.”

“I do know that, and as your friend, I’ll do anything I can to help your niece through this awful time.”

“Thank you.” Sam had been humbled more than once during the last few days by the amazing show of support from her colleagues and friends. “I could use one more favor. Can you get me an address for an Ekland family in the third ward? They have a teenage son named David who we may need to speak to at some point. Goes by Davey. If need be, you can call the principal of Wilson High to get the info. He’s been very cooperative. Let me know if you need me to shoot you his number.”

“Got it. Will do.”

“I’ll see you at the meeting.”

“I’ll be there.”

Sam arrived at HQ a few minutes later, pleased to see the usual swarm of reporters down to only a hardy few braving the cold. She ignored them on her way inside.

Gonzo appeared in the doorway to her office. “Got a second?”

“Sure do.” Sam took off her coat and settled into her chair. “Come in.”