It’s now or never. I move quickly but silently, glancing back only once as I jump the barrier, cross the lobby and exit through the front doors. Sarah’s car is still in the parking lot. I turn right and head down the street. I’m not sure where I’m going or what I’m doing, but I can’t stay here. I have to find Rebecca. She’s the only one that can help me now.

53. Sarah Morgan

53

Sarah Morgan

I didn’t bother to set an alarm after last night’s clusterfuck, and I instead just let myself sleep until I naturally woke up. It was the first good night’s rest I’ve gotten since I took on the case. After a nice long shower, a cup of French press coffee, and a big savory breakfast, I feel I can handle everything again.

Bob and Anne are at the top of my to-do list. But there’s also the matter of Adam and his ridiculous outburst. Then there’s the third set of DNA, and I still have to smooth everything out with D.A. Peters before the trial. Christ, I don’t even have my fucking defense strategy laid out yet. But if anyone can do this, it’s me. I mean, it has to be me.

I drive to the office. I’m not even sure if both Bob and Anne will show up today, but knowing them, the odds are pretty good. Anne will want to spend the entire day groveling at my feet until I forgive her. Bob will not want to appear broken or defeated in any way to his subordinates at the firm.

I’m sure I’ll be reprimanded by Kent at some point. Lucky for me, Kent was out of the office yesterday, but the news will get to him quickly.

Not thirty seconds after I enter my office, I hear a faint knock on my door frame. Anne is peeking into my office, the lower half of her torso still out of view in case she needs to make a quick dash to escape my wrath.

“May I come in, Sarah?” she asks sheepishly with a heavy vibrato in her voice. This is the hyena approaching the downed wildebeest while the lion is still eating. Maybe the lion will share. Or maybe it will decide to have two meals this morning.

“Yes, Anne, you may,” I say, taking a deadpan and emotionless tone to convey my reserved and cautionary judgment of her as a person.

“Look, I just wanted to say I’m sorry again. I’m sorry for not telling you about Adam and Kelly. I’m sorry for breaking your trust. I’m just sorry, and I understand if you want me to leave. I can have my desk emptied by end of day.”

I say nothing. I let her sweat.