Chapter 44 Summary
Still preoccupied with Kathy, Robert Jackson heads downstairs, hoping to see her during her shift. To mask his true intent, he grabs random items to make it appear he’s shopping. Just as he's about to give up, Kathy appears, and they strike up a lighthearted conversation. Jackson awkwardly attempts to ask her out but fumbles over his words and nerves. Eventually, he asks her to coffee, and after some playful teasing, Kathy agrees to meet him during her break at 7:30 p.m. The exchange leaves Jackson feeling uplifted, hopeful, and more emotionally vulnerable than he's been in years.
Meanwhile, Officer Charley receives a call from Warrant Officer Kendrick of the CID Southeast Field Office regarding her previously submitted report of an abduction. Charley tries to withdraw the case, declaring it a misunderstanding, but Kendrick insists that official procedures must be followed. He explains that Charley must submit substantial evidence disproving her original claim—witness statements, documentation, or expert input to have the case marked as unfounded. Frustrated, Charley insists the investigation is unnecessary, but Kendrick is firm. Realizing the only way forward may be a statement from the alleged abductee, she decides to pursue that path. As her anger builds, she storms out of the precinct, leaving behind curious colleagues, with her resentment growing toward Mark.
