Chapter 52 Summary
Roger Cortez and Remington meet privately in Roger’s office overlooking the Mississippi River to discuss their escalating problem: they still cannot locate Bravo. Remington explains that Bravo has turned off his phone, making tracking impossible, but he’s certain Bravo is still in the city, intent on eliminating the threat rather than fleeing. Roger grows increasingly uneasy, worried about how arbitrary and unpredictable Bravo’s actions may be, while Remington bluntly reminds him that his rigid “nobody leaves” rule created this crisis. Bravo, unlike others, won’t be easily controlled or disposed of. With tensions rising between the brothers, Roger reluctantly agrees to supply whatever equipment Remington needs and instructs him to attempt phone tracking if Bravo makes contact. The meeting ends on an unexpectedly personal note, with Roger acknowledging, without apology, the suffering he’s caused, and Remington responding with understanding before departing.
At the police precinct, Officer Kate Williams is introduced to FBI Agents John Jackson and Lisa Taylor, who have arrived to assist with Steven’s case. The meeting quickly becomes tense as the agents, particularly Lisa, challenge Kate about why the threatening note was not discovered during her initial search of Steven’s apartment. Kate defends her actions sharply, explaining how the note had been hidden between the headboard and mattress and was found only during a second visit to collect Steven’s personal items from the still-secured apartment. The agents press her on how she learned that the FBI in St. Louis received the same message, unhappy with the leak.
When the FBI states they intend to interview Steven, Kate warns that he is emotionally fragile and should not be questioned without his doctor’s approval. The agents dismiss concerns about his safety and decline to arrange a guard for his hospital room. After the hostile exchange, Kate storms out and vents her frustration to her supervisor, Roy, vowing she will not work with Agent Lisa Taylor again. Roy tries to calm her, insisting cooperation is necessary, but Kate makes it clear she won’t tolerate further disrespect. After she leaves, Roy finally breaks into uncontrollable laughter, echoing through the precinct.
