He’s just a suspect, but there are no formal charges.

I park in front of the cabin and we drag our suitcases through the poorly plowed snow.

When I get to the door, I worry that the code might not even work given the low quality of hospitality at the curb.

But I’m pleasantly surprised.

The cabin looks even nicer than it did on the picture and the owner even started the electric fireplace and the heater to warm the place up for us.

Solly looks concerned at first but then relaxes when I put him on the couch and let him curl up next to the fire.

“This is going to be a cozy place to spend the night,” I say, putting my suitcase on the twin bed by the window.

Sydney is likewise impressed. After we take off our boots and change into our comfy clothes, Sydney makes hot chocolate.

“Thanks for coming,” I say. “I don’t think I could’ve done this on my own.”

“You could have and you would have, but thank you.” She gives me a wink.

“What do I do now?” I ask, staring absentmindedly at the flames dancing in front of me. “How do I convince the FBI that Nicholas didn’t commit either of those crimes?”

“You probably have to make an appointment with the district attorney and go talk to him or her.”

“I can do that?” I ask.

“Anyone can. Since you’re his girlfriend, I’m sure that he’ll meet with you and hear you out.”

“Will he believe me?” I ask, playing with the tiny marshmallow in my cup.

“I have no idea,” she says, placing her hand on my foot to show her support. “He’s not still in Montana, is he?”

I shake my head.

“No, I don’t think so. The murder happened in Massachusetts so they’ll hold the trial there.”

“Well, good, that way you won’t have to travel far to go see the DA.”

I nod. Yeah, what great news, I think to myself sarcastically.

“Okay, just put that out of your mind for now. Let’s relax a little bit, enjoy this hot cocoa, and try to laugh.”

I glance over at her.

Her face is stoic.

She’s being completely serious.

I give her a slight nod and say, “Okay, you tell me a joke first.”

20

Nicholas

When I’m alone…

I’ve never had much interest in music growing up. I’ve listened to my share of rap and rock ’n roll, just like any other teenager but I never really developed a taste for music.

It was always the words that I had focused on.

And now, sitting here and staring at these cinder block walls twenty-four hours a day, I try my best to remember even the most basic melodies to keep my mind occupied.