The revelation struck like a physical blow. Before Bonnie could respond, her phone shattered the moment.
Bonnie, usually the model of professional discipline, ignored it. The ringtone persisted, grating and urgent. She declined the call four, maybe five times, desperate to preserve the mood.
Finally, with no other choice, she answered, her tone sharp.
"What is it? I told you not to disturb me when I'm off duty."
Spencer Lawrence's voice came through tight with panic.
"Captain, it's bad. We found a male corpse downstream. Forensics puts time of death as tonight."
Bonnie frowned, her hand still covering Brandon's on her stomach.
"The higher-ups say the timing is sensitive," Spencer continued. "To prevent public panic, they need you at the scene immediately."
Bonnie looked at Brandon, then at the cozy living room she had built for him.
"I have a family emergency," she lied. "I can't go."
"Captain, this is a major homicide case!" Spencer's voice rose. "A human life is at stake!"
Bonnie didn't move. She was already formulating a stronger excuse, searching for a way to brush off her duty so she could stay here in her perfect lie.
Watching her, a bitter, hollow laugh escaped me.