Chapter 39 Summary
Jennifer, preparing to leave for Chicago, calls Javon to thank him for their evening together. They share an easy, if slightly awkward, goodbye, both hinting that they’d like to stay in touch. As she walks to the elevator, a stranger bumps into her, a stocky man with short blond hair and piercing gray-blue eyes. He helps steady her and lifts her suitcase into the elevator before disappearing, leaving Jennifer with a faint sense of unease.
In Austin, Steven Schroeder struggles with basic tasks; he cannot even hold a spoon, so the medical team discusses rehabilitation and potential placement in a recovery facility. Dr. Rosenthal explains the likely plan: a period in rehab followed by outpatient care. Tony visits Steven, comforts him, and reaffirms his offers to help, including round-the-clock nursing, assistance with apartment hunting for a furnished two-bedroom, or a stay at Tony’s place. Steve reluctantly accepts assistance and asks Tony to contact his parents. Tony promises to call them.
Tony contacts the Austin Police and speaks with Officer Kate Williams. After some negotiation, Kate agrees to meet him at the apartment later in the afternoon to retrieve Steven’s belongings, though the scene remains under investigation and entry is restricted. The chapter concludes with practical plans underway to support Steven’s recovery and reconnect him with his family, while Jennifer leaves amid a brief, curious encounter in the hotel elevator.
