“It’s all so awful,” Nick said.

“So awful.”

Sam’s mother, Brenda, came in and stopped short at the sight of Spencer in the coffin, as if it was too much for her.

Sam knew how she felt. She went over to greet her mother with a hug.

“This is unbelievable,” Brenda said, “even a week later.”

“I know. I still can’t wrap my head around it.”

“Do you know any more about what happened?”

“Just that he took laced pills. We’re still working on figuring out where he got them.”

“I’m glad you’re on the case. If anyone can find these people, you can.”

“I wish I was as certain. It’s been extremely frustrating as the bodies continue to pile up. Two more today, and another escaped a close call.”

“It’s so terrible. I read about your detective and what happened with the ex-girlfriend.”

“Another nightmare I’m dealing with.”

“I don’t know how you do it. I really don’t.”

“I don’t know how not to do it,” Sam said with a shrug.

“You’re just like your father,” Brenda said with a small smile. “Always have been.”

“Thank you.”

“I know you must miss him so much.”

“I do, never more so since Spence died. We’re trying to get Angela through this, but it’s the hardest thing ever. He’d know what to do.”

“You know, too. I’ve been comforted knowing you and Tracy are there for her. You girls have always been so close.”

“We’ll be there for the long haul, but the idea of what she has to face on her own is daunting.”

“We’ll get her through it.”

“Thanks for helping Celia with the kids this week.”

“I was happy to. I guess I should pay my respects to Spence and his family.” Brenda dabbed at her eyes with a tissue. “It’s so unnatural to bury a child. I can’t bear this for them either.”

“I know. The whole thing is unbearable.”

“It really is.” She gave Sam another hug before she went to sit with Angela, avoiding the body of her son-in-law for now.

Sam reached for her phone, intending to check on the situation with Jeannie, and saw a text from Jeannie that filled her with relief.

Mrs. Patrick took me hostage. The Fairfax County sniper team took her out. I’m fine. Will see you at the wake.

God, Jeannie. Are you sure you’re ok?

Other than the senselessness of it all… You know.

I do. But I’m so, so thankful you’re safe.

Sorry to add drama to an already crappy day.

Not your fault. Don’t feel obligated to come if it’s too much.

We’ll be there.

Sam went to share the news with Nick.

“Well, that’s a relief, huh?”

“Huge relief.”

Brooke approached Sam, her face red and puffy from crying.

Sam hugged her.

“I still can’t believe this. How can he be dead?”

“I know, honey.”

“I’m sorry.” Brooke tried to pull herself together. “I’m making this about me. It’s not about me.”

“It’s about all of us who loved him.”