I didnt plan it this way, Greg, she said, a note of disgust in her voice. It just fell into my lap. She paused, checking herself. But why am I explaining myself to you? Why do I need your permission?

Greg let out a patient sigh. Im going to say this as carefully as I can, because I dont want to sound callused. Girls die all the time, with or without you, and you know better than I do that you cant save them all. There will be other cases, other killers. But youll only have one father.

She had known the words were coming before he finished speaking. Only one father. That was a reality that had haunted her longer than she cared to admit.

What do you want me to say? she said, feeling trapped.

Say youre coming over right now to see him. Say youre going to make things right before its too late.

Are you sure thats something I can do? Last time I checked, it takes two people to hold a conversation. Can you really tell me itll be any different this time?

Greg was silent for several long moments. Callaway got out of the truck and watched her, hands in his pockets.

I have to go, Harley told Greg. But Ill be there as soon as I can get away.

Greg sounded defeated. Right, right. I wont hold my breath.

Please dont hold this against me, Greg. Im doing the best I can.

Im not holding it against you. Im just worried youll hold it against yourself.

Harley knew this was a distinct possibility. If something happened to Dad before she saw him again, she would always wonder if they could have patched things up. Every time his birthday rolled around, she would wonder how that last conversation might have gone.

Still, she had a job to do, and sometimes that meant sacrifices. She couldnt leave the investigation now, not when they were so close to getting their hands on Roth.

I appreciate that, she said gently. Honestly, I do. She paused, softening the dismissal. Take care of yourself, Greg.

He waited a few seconds before answering in a low, distant voice: You too, sis.

Harley hung up the phone and looked at Callaway. Well, she said, what do you say we go see Roth again? I know we didnt leave on the best of terms, but if we promise to be nice…

About that, Callaway murmured, looking away as he scratched his cheek. Its not looking like well be talking with him any time soon.

Whys that?

Callaway paused. Harley sensed she wasnt going to like what he was about to say.

Roth just filed a restraining order against us, he said.