Its been about three months ago, I suppose. It was at Greenfield…sort of a check-up. She eyed them both and the reality of why they were here slowly dawned on her. There was fury there, but a deep sadness as well. I guess youre here to see if Im the killer, is that it? The crazy bitch that cant have a baby…the one that attacked that perfectly nice and happy woman at the park. Sorry to disappoint you but, no…Im not a killer. And its fucking insulting to think youd even come here to suggest it.

Rachel and Jack both sat in stunned silence for a moment. Gemma had not quite exploded on them, but it had been close. And it had seemed to come out of nowhere, making Rachel wonder just how deeply wounded she was over her failed marriage and the inability to have a child. How long had she been holding on to it…and did she blame herself for her infertility?

Can you provide proof of your whereabouts for the nights over the last week or so? Rachel asked.

Im not sure how to prove Ive been sitting here at home, she said. Because thats all Ive done. Its all Ive done since I got back home from my little three-day stint in prison. Sitting at home, not wanting to go outside. Only going out when I need groceries, or to work, or…its been miserable.

Rachel wasnt sure if the woman was trying to make them feel sorry for her or if it was just starting to come naturally for her. Whichever it was, Rachel could not deny that she was truly starting to feel bad for coming her to question her. Sure, she had beaten a new mother rather badly in a public park, but there were clearly scars of self-rejection and loathing holding the poor woman down.

We can prove it if there is any traceable internet activity, Jack said. Though, to be honest, these killings we are looking into took place late at night. So if you arent a night owl… He shrugged, apparently starting to feel just as bad as Rachel about being here.

Well, I guess Im in luck, Gemma said. Im not sleeping much these days, and when I do its usually a nap on the couch mid-day. I have a pretty bad habit of Amazon-shopping far too late into the night. Then an a-ha sort of look came over her face. Oh, and four nights ago, I was out of town…in Bethesda, visiting my mom. I stayed over and we had breakfast together before I left. So maybe that will help, too.

She didnt say these things in an angry or condescending tone. To Rachel, it seemed as if the woman truly wanted to help. Would you be willing to provide your computer and your mothers address? Rachel asked.