We do, in fact, have a few leads. And once things have settled and we have some more answers, Ill invite you into that case. As of right now

I know, sir. Id be too close to the case. Look, I really do appreciate you calling to check in on me, but Im visiting with my

Thats not the only reason I called, Gift, he sounded irritated, perhaps because shed just interrupted him. I have a case I need you and Rivers on.

A case? Sir, Im dealing with a lot here, and Im not even home right now. Im visiting my grandmother in South Carolina.

Well come back. Listen, I considered just sending Rivers by himself, but I think this is a case the two if you could wrap quickly. It seems to fit nicely with the last few youve worked on.

Sir, I…

But she stopped here, as her heart seemed to communicate something to her brain. It was what she supposed some people might refer to as an a-ha moment. She knew right away that she would not outright refuse the case. Over the last three days, shed felt lost. Coming to visit with Grandma Tate had helped that but there were still secrets she was keeping, still worries and fears about her future that had gone uncommunicated with everyone. It had her feeling lost and useless. And she knew the only thing that had ever truly made her feel fully in control, and as if she had a sense of purpose, was her work.

Besides, if she was being selfishly honest, a simple case would be a welcome distraction. Wheres the case?

Roanoke. Weve got two bodies already. There will be more information during the debrief.

Yes, sir. But, as I said, Im in South Carolina. So, it might be a while. Another obstacle which she didnt mention to Anderson was that she wasnt so sure Peter would be very accepting of needing to watch Paige while he was apparently living out of a hotel.

He sighed, and even without the vocal expression of a word, it was clear that he was still irritated. Well, how soon can you get here?

Rachel looked to the bowl shed been filling with strawberries and heard Paige and Grandma Tate talking outside, Paige letting out one of her telltale giggling fits. She knew deep down in her heart that it should be a harder decision to make, but everything in her told her to take the case. In a perfect world, she could just leave Page here with Grandma Tate for a few days but knowing that her grandmother could fall ill any day and that she and Peter were having issues made that an impossibility.

Gift?

I dont know, sir. Its a seven-hour drive back home and Ill need to figure out something to do about my daughter.