He was trying to be helpful, but Becca knew that, if she wasn’t careful, she would wind up on the receiving end of one of Christian’s well-intentioned lectures.

“What’s the status on Mo and the others?” Becca asked, changing the subject. Christian thankfully took the hint.

“I’ll go check and see where things are at. I may be a while. I’m also trying to see if I can get someone to cover my shift.”

“You don’t have to do that.”

“You may be able to shut out your mom and dad, but after everything you’ve pulled so far, I’m keeping a close watch on you.” Becca offered Christian her best attempt at a smile. “Text me if you need anything, okay?”

She nodded and he closed the door behind him. The silence was a welcome change after the intense noise of the precinct. Becca shifted in the office chair, trying to find a comfortable position, which she realized was a futile endeavor. The room was freezing, a vent blowing down on her. She trembled, her focus drifting back to the picture of Christian and Wishard. They looked blissfully happy together, almost carefree. It was positively annoying. She blinked, trying not to stare at it. God, it was as if they were watching her, judging her, their smiles almost mocking. Becca had enough. She grabbed the photo and shoved it in the desk drawer. She leaned forward and placed her head on the desk, her eyes flickering closed.

“Becca?”

She wasn’t sure if minutes had passed or hours. Becca sat upright, wiping a small puddle of drool from her mouth. Nina stood over Becca, her sleek black LAPD uniform neatly pressed. She was carrying two cups of Intelligentsia coffee, Becca’s drug of choice. She held out one to Becca, who took it, the warm cup soothing her.

“I can’t believe I fell asleep. What time is it?” she asked.

“Seven thirty. My shift starts soon, but I brought goodies,” Nina said, digging around in her bag and emerging with a tasty treat. “Blueberry chocolate chip muffin. Your favorite.”

“You’re a goddess. You know that, don’t you?” Becca said.

“I do. I really do,” Nina said. Becca smiled and removed the lid, taking a small sip of the steaming hot coffee. The caffeine was a much-needed jolt. She tore into the muffin as Nina pulled up a chair and scooted next to Becca. “You hanging in there?” Nina asked.

“By the smallest of smallest threads.” Becca took a ragged breath. “If you saw what they did to her…”

“Ash is alive, Becca. That’s what matters.”