I quickly hang the phone up and try to look nonchalant on the couch. Sarah enters the living room wide-eyed and angry.

Great. What did I do this time? It can’t have been any worse than having an affair and being on trial for the murder of my mistress. “Hey, honey,” I say with a bit of sarcasm.

I can tell by the look in her eyes, she sees me as no more than a problem, a client that has to be dealt with. What happened to the Sarah I encountered on Friday night? The love that was once there seems to have vanished, and I can’t blame her. Look at me, a scruffy, unkempt beard has taken residence on my face. I’m sure my bloodshot eyes have their bags packed. My hair is a mess, and I’m still in PJs and a robe. Plus, let’s not forget about the situation I’ve gotten us in.

“Don’t ‘hey, honey’ me,” she says pointing at me. “What’s with the redhead, the phone calls, and the ten thousand dollars you spent?” Her eyes narrow. Maybe she does care about me. She asked about the redhead first. Is she jealous? I haven’t seen her jealous in quite some time. She just might love me after all.

“I can explain all of those things,” I say putting my hands up.

“Then explain.” She sits on the loveseat and crosses one leg over the other.

“Okay, the redhead: her name is Rebecca. She’s a reporter—”

“A reporter? You’re talking to a reporter? You do know you’re on trial for murder and the death penalty is on the table?”

“I understand that, Sarah—more than anyone.” I grit my teeth. This right here is my problem with Sarah, she treats me like I’m an idiot. What does she expect me to say to that? Oh, damn. Thanks for reminding me. I completely forgot that I’m on house arrest pending my trial.

“Do you actually understand that?” It’s clearly a rhetorical question.

“She’s helping me.”

“She’s a reporter. You’re just a story, and you don’t even know this woman. I have jury selection happening right now, and the last thing I need is anything in the media swaying them. You’re lucky the media dug up Kelly’s past because that’s been good for you in terms of public opinion. But one more story that paints you in an unflattering light will destroy that. Do you understand?”

“Rebecca and I have an agreement. She’s going to put my side of the story out, and I’m paying her to help me with my investigation.” I sit forward and place my elbows on my knees.