She ran through the hallway and came to a neat, modest kitchen. Or so it seemed. There was a strange gray sort of water on the floor, and shattered glass. Rachels eyes saw all of this first, but then saw the two women pressed against the far wall. The woman that was losing the battle was pressed against the wall, her bare feet kicking along the floor for traction, kicking up the gray water. The woman was bleeding from a wound along her side. And even as Rachel watched, she saw the attacker draw a knife backward, intending to drive it forward. But in the midst of the attackers frenzy, she saw Rachel enter the room. Rachel had her Glock out and raised it. The killer stopped, smiled, and then held the knife to the womans throat.

Drop the knife, Mrs. Allen.

No. I planned so hard for this. This is…this is the only way I can…

Its too late, Mrs. Allen. I spoke with the people at Regency. It has nothing to do with you or your situation. And neither does this woman.

Claire looked genuinely confused for a moment, shaking her head. But I have to have my chance back. Its not fair…

You donated the eggs, right? Rachel asked.

For a moment, Rachel thought the confusion and distraction was going to allow Cassie McNeil to slip free from Claires clutches. But the womans grip was apparently quite strong.

I did. I wanted the money and I thought I may as well see if someone else could be fortunate and have a child. But I…I couldnt stand the thought of it.

You visited other women, too, right? Three others?

Claire nodded matter-of-factly, as if she honestly didnt see what the big deal was. But Rachel saw the strength in her wrist as she held the knife to Cassie McNeils throat. One quick motion was all it would take.

Mrs. Allen, youve been through a lot, havent you? Rachel asked.

She nodded and her face started to grow red as tears slipped from the corners of her eyes. As Claire struggled with this, Rachel could see the murky shape of Jack out on the back porch. He was peering in through the window, and she gave him a quick shake of the head. Not yet, that shake of the head said. For now, she felt she had things at least somewhat under control. The sudden appearance of another armed agent might drive Claire Allen to slide that knife right into Cassie McNeils neck.

Just put the knife away, Rachel said. Whatever your pain is, it did not come from this woman. She doesnt even know you. And the same was true of the other women. You understand that, right?