"Then we deal with it. But I think she will, because the story is solid. And there's no physical evidence connecting James and Roxy Brennan to anything that happened."
He's quiet for a long moment, his forehead resting against mine.
"You're sure about this? This could all go epically wrong, you know," he says.
"No. But I'm sure that running is worse. Tokyo is three months away. If we run now, we lose all of that."
"We'd be alive and together, and that’s more important."
"We'd always be looking over our shoulders. Is that what you want?"
"I want you safe."
"Then trust the cover. Trust what we've built."
He sighs as he embraces me in a tight hug, agreeing without saying a word.
We're staying and we're going to face this.
We're going to win.
The next morning, I do something that should terrify me but instead feels strategic.
I call Detective Lily Chen.
Dom's in the kitchen making breakfast when I dial the number from the letterhead. He freezes when he hears my voice.
"Detective Chen? This is Roxy Brennan. I received your letter."
Her voice is professional, controlled.
"Mrs. Brennan. Thank you for calling. I appreciate your cooperation."
"Of course. My husband and I want to help however we can."
"I'd like to schedule interviews with both of you. Separately, if possible."
"May I ask what this is about? The letter mentioned a death in Arizona?"
"Gary Hollis. A truck driver whose body was found approximately eight months ago. We're following up on all potential leads."
"I'm sorry, I don't recognize that name."
"That's fine. The interview is just to establish timeline and alibi. Standard procedure."
"When would you like to meet?"
"Are you available this week?"
I glance at Dom.
"Yes. We can make ourselves available."
"Thursday? Say, 2pm for your husband, 4pm for you?"
"That works. Should we come to you, or…"
"I'll come to San Diego. There's a police substation in Ten Park. I'll text you the address."
