Interrogation Room Two is not a place that anyone would feel comfortable, even if it weren’t used exclusively for questioning criminal suspects. It’s neutral in the worst way—gray paint, a small metal table pushed up against the wall, one metal chair on each of the three exposed sides. The fluorescent lighting is harsh, and there’s an overhead camera with a blinking red light.

“Richard,” Gabriel says upon entering, as if they’re old friends. He reaches out to shake Richard Trofino’s hand, which causes Richard to rise from the metal chair to grasp it. “I’m so very sorry for your loss.”

If the story we heard is correct, the uniform cops woke him with a phone call. They must have given Richard some time to change before transporting him down to One PP. He looks like he just stepped out of a GQ ad for business-casual attire. He’s clad in gray wool slacks, a well-starched white button-down shirt, and suede Gucci loafers.

Richard nods. In barely more than a whisper, he says, “Thank you.”

I would not have thought it possible for a man’s appearance to change so much in so little time. Less than twenty-four hours ago, Richard had stood in my office with his usual swagger, but now he has the look Jacob sometimes wears when he’s frightened.

“I’m so sorry,” I add softly.

I wonder if Richard is thinking clearly enough to understand that the next few minutes will determine everything. He hasn’t been Mirandized because he’s here voluntarily and Miranda warnings are only given to people in police custody, but I’m certain Richard knows that the smart move is for him to remain silent.

“Can I get you anything? Coffee, water . . . something to eat maybe?” Gabriel asks, still standing.

Richard declines the offer with a shake of his head.

This is Gabriel’s cue to sit, and I immediately follow suit. A beat later, so does Richard.

“Dana and I will be leading the investigation into your wife’s murder,” Gabriel says. “Let me state at the outset that this is going to be a no-stone-unturned situation. We’ve been given every available resource to track down her killer. The first step in that process, however, is you. I know you’ve already answered some questions. You must be exhausted, but we need to start from square one.”

I wait with bated breath for Richard’s response. The next thing out of his mouth will tell me exactly how he plans to play this.

His mouth starts to contort as if he’s about to say something.

Then he vomits all over my lap.

11. ELLA BRODEN

11.

ELLA BRODEN