You know, its funny you mentioned some hope, he said with a sly smile. He dug into his pocket and pulled out a business card. He slid it over to her slowly, as if he might take it back at any moment. About five years ago, I was working with this other guy on homicide and one of the few cases we ran together involved this man that was killing because a voice in his head was telling him toright down to how to get it done. About two months after the arrest, we found out the man had a tumor in his head, pushing down on something or another and messing with his brain. Thats why he was hearing the voices and had no moral quandaries about murder. So I spent about a month talking on-again-off-again with this specialist, just to make sure we were charging this guy correctly, knowing full well that hed walk if this medical excuse was legit.

Anyway, it turns out it was legit. And I slowly started to grow sort of fascinated with how tumors can mess with peoples minds. I wouldnt go so far as to say I became friends with this specialist, but I got to know him well. Ive played golf with him a few times since then, nothing more than that.

Rachel looked at the card and tilted her head at Jack. It was such a simple gesture but something about it reminded her of just how good of a friend he was. She had no idea if she wouldever use the information on the card, but it was nice to know the option was there.

And youre telling me this why?

This guy is an expert. Sort of a genius in the field of tumors. He went on and on about these experimental procedures that would be less dependent on approaches like chemo. Now…dont get mad, but I may have called him yesterday.

Jack…

I told him the little bit I know about whats going on with you and he said hed be happy to see you. All you have to do is call him.

I appreciate it, Jack, but I dont want to spend the little bit of time I do have in doctors offices.

So dont. Call him. Go on one visit to see if he can help. It cant hurt, right?

She took the card and tucked it away in her pocket. She wasnt sure if shed ever use it, but she appreciated the thought. I suppose not.

Now, on to other things, he said. If Peter does indeed leave you over this, would you allow me to punch him in the chin?

No, Jack, she knew he was going for a laugh, but she just couldnt manage one for him. Besides, I sort of get it. I should have told him right away. But I was scared, and…