Two uniformed officers stood behind Aaron Miller, who wore a dark overcoat and the same charming smile he used in newspaper photographs about community policing.

Lorenzo studied the screen.

“Interesting,” he said.

Matteo lowered his voice.

“He’s been our police liaison for eight months.”

“I remember.”

“Should I let him in?”

Lorenzo looked down at Chloe.

Her breathing had become shallow. She was trembling despite the warmth of the hallway.

“No.”

Matteo touched his earpiece.

“Front entrance stays closed.”

Aaron’s voice returned through the speaker.

“Mr. Marchesi, I know you’re listening. Chloe has a medical condition. She becomes confused when she forgets her medication.”

Chloe shook her head weakly.

“That’s not true.”

Lorenzo noticed.

He pressed the intercom button.

“Detective Miller.”

“Lorenzo. Good evening.”

“Your girlfriend is receiving medical attention.”

“Then I’ll take her home.”

“That won’t be necessary.”

A pause followed.

When Aaron spoke again, the warmth had disappeared.

“You don’t understand what you’re getting involved in.”

Lorenzo glanced at the bruises around Chloe’s neck.

“I think I’m beginning to.”

The ambulance arrived six minutes later.

Sarah accompanied Chloe while Lorenzo arranged for Matteo to follow in a separate car.

Aaron attempted to approach the ambulance, but the paramedics continued their assessment and transport after Chloe clearly stated that she did not want him accompanying her.

As the ambulance pulled away, Aaron remained beneath the entrance canopy.

Lorenzo stepped outside.

Rain darkened the shoulders of his suit.

Aaron smiled.

“You’ve made this unnecessarily complicated.”

Lorenzo didn’t return the smile.

“Did you hurt her?”

Aaron’s expression tightened.

“That’s a personal matter.”

“No,” Lorenzo said quietly. “It’s a criminal matter.”

Aaron took a step closer.

“You should remember how much I’ve done for your organization.”

“I remember everything.”

“Then remember what happens when our arrangement stops working.”

Lorenzo watched him walk toward his cruiser.

He waited until the taillights disappeared before turning to Matteo.

“Find out why a decorated detective is so frightened of a woman who can barely stand.”

Matteo nodded.

“And if he’s lying?”