“Sol and Bogle have centralized all the data we’ve got on this,” he said. “Witness statements, chronology of significant events, everything. It paints a pretty clear picture, so I’m thinking you should look it over and see if something jumps out. If anyone asks about your eval, or why you’re wading through evidence when you’re supposed to be suspended, make something up. They’ll all be preoccupied with looking for Bram anyway.”

“You want me to stay at the station while you and Mac search for him? Like hell,” I said.

“The guy’s a family member, Shana. He’s your cousin.”

“That only makes me want to put an end to this more.”

“I don’t doubt that, okay? You’re probably more motivated than any of us, but have you thought about how big a problem your relationship could be if we actually find him? If we catch him, and he goes to trial, his attorney could use it against you. They could easily claim prejudice and bias. They’ll pore over every interaction you’ve ever had with Bram—including what happened in New York. Do I have to remind you that the last time you had a chance to detain him you let him go?”

“Wow. So much for Mr. Understanding.”

Tim made no reply. The rush of my tires speeding down the frozen highway filled the car. I was driving too fast, but my need to be back in the Thousand Islands had me wound up so tightly it hurt. I was tired of feeling divided between wanting to keep Bram masked and needing to see him exposed for his crimes. It was like battling a second personality for the upper hand; both had their claws out, and both had no intention of relinquishing control.

“It has to be me. I have to play by Bram’s rules.”

“Fuck his rules!”

“Yeah,” I said, suddenly exhausted. “Fuck Bram. Except he’s still got Trey Hayes. I never said I had it all figured out. I’m just trying to stay afloat.”

My vision blurred, and the landscape blurred with it. Tim said he had another call coming in, and we hung up. I stole glances at him in the rear mirror after that. Saw his lips move when he answered the call, and go still when the conversation ended. It was a long time before he called me back.

“McIntyre again,” Tim said. His voice was solemn. “They’ve got eyes on the boat. It’s on the northeast shore of Deer Island, abandoned. There are buildings there. Places to hide.”

I pulled in a breath. If Bram was on Deer Island, and Mac called in the cavalry, there was no telling how he’d react. He’d already attacked one person today; if he felt threatened, he could do a lot more damage. He wouldn’t hurt me, though. Not yet. And as long as he wanted me alive to watch his plot unfold, Mac and Tim needed my help.

“Tell her to give the island a wide berth. Please, Tim. Don’t let anyone tip him off.”