“The same could be said about you,” Rina said.

“I’m a cop,” Decker said. “It’s different. I know these kinds of psychos … how they manipulate people. I just want to make sure it doesn’t happen.”

Rina said, “But Talia confessed.”

“Not quite,” Decker said. “She confessed to me but not to the cops. No one was around. I had a gun. She could say it was coerced. Of course, that’s not going to happen. But I want to make sure it doesn’t happen. I’ll wait until after the funeral.”

“I’m not leaving you alone with Chris,” Rina told him. “He’s too unstable right now.”

“He’s not going to shoot me.” Decker smiled. “Besides, I have his gun.”

“I’m not worried about that. I’m worried he’s going to find a way to shoot her.”

“Yeah, don’t think I haven’t thought about it.”

“What was she booked with?”

“Two counts of first-degree homicide. They may reduce the charges for the fetus.”

“That would be a pity,” Rina said. “I’m also not leaving until after the funeral, Peter. Neither Chris nor Gabe is in any shape to plan it. Someone has to take the reins.”

“If he doesn’t burn the bitch,” Decker said.

“Of course the baby was his.”

“He doesn’t seem convinced.”

“He didn’t think Gabe was his either,” Rina said. “Honestly, I think he’s just finding an excuse to be furious at Terry because anger is easier than devastation. The man lost his wife and child in one swoop. I can’t even imagine what that feels like.”

Decker lay down on the couch. “It was a horrific day, and the next few days aren’t going to be any better.”

“But the sun will come up in the east and set in the west,” Rina said. “That’s what’s so crazy about death. Your life is forever changed, but the world goes on.” She stretched out on her couch. “Let’s talk about it in the morning. Neither one of us has had any sleep for over twenty-four hours. Nothing looks hopeful when you’re exhausted.”

Decker turned around and tried to get comfortable. The leather couch was tufted with buttons. It was hard. He had no pillow or cover. But Rina wasn’t complaining, so why should he? A half hour later, Donatti returned to his office and flipped on the lights. Decker rubbed his eyes and sat up.

Donatti looked at him and Rina. “I’ll get you some pillows and covers from the bedroom.”

“We’re fine,” Decker said. “Where have you been?”

“Walking.” His voice was completely flat.

“For ten hours?”

Donatti didn’t answer. His phone rang. “It’s Gabe—again.”

“Have you talked to him?”