CARS, TRUCKS, AND MEDIA VANS lined both sides of the street in front of the courthouse. The news of a possible suspect had drawn the attention of reporters and journalists from as far north as New York and all the way south to Miami. Camera operators jostled with one another for the best shot as their counterparts rehearsed their headline-grabbing hooks.

“He’s a baby killer.”

“Now her family can rest in peace.”

“Hides in the woods.”

Lane hurried up the steps of the courthouse, anxious to escape the scathing comments circling about Miguel, and pushed past the crowd hanging around the front door. Rumors were already starting and Miguel hadn’t even been named as a suspect—at least not officially. What did they find at his house that would make them believe he killed Sydney? She didn’t want to think about it. Whatever it was—there had to be an explanation.

The hallways of the courthouse were filled with people. Mondays were always busy arraignment days, but Lane guessed most of the people occupying floor space among the marble pillars were there because of Miguel. Lane paused outside her father’s office. What was she going to say?

“Lane, what are you doing here?”

His voice had a way of turning her insides into mush, and today was no exception. Lane turned to face Charlie. Blue eyes crinkled with concern even though his lips held the hint of a smile like he was glad to see her.

“Finding out the truth.” She hated the way seeing him made her heart race. How could she let herself fall for him so quickly? Believe there was a chance?

“The truth?”

“Yes.” She licked her lips, avoiding the tender look in his eyes. “I want to make sure you aren’t going after Miguel because of any medical conditions he might have.”

He took a tentative step toward her. “Do you really believe we’re going after him because of that?”

“I don’t know.” Lane’s purpose began to waver in the wake of Charlie’s gentle expression. “Why are you going after him then?”

“It’s an active case.” Charlie looked sorry. “I can’t discuss details.”

“Somebody’s discussing something because there’s a crowd outside that thinks Miguel’s responsible for Sydney’s murder,” Lane said, her voice pitching defensively.

A few faces turned their way. A woman Lane recognized as an attorney’s secretary stepped into the hallway and flashed a tight smile at her and Charlie. This conversation wasn’t one Lane wanted to have in the middle of the courthouse. Charlie followed her into the corner of the hallway tucked behind one of the pillars. Her hand brushed against his, sending a longing to be wrapped in his arms again rolling through her body. She pushed away the desire.