But I saw it.
“Mr. Palmer?”
One investigator identified herself as Detective Lena Ortiz.
“We need to speak with you.”
Gregory looked at me.
I opened my eyes fully.
For the first time, he understood.
“You were awake.”
It was not a question.
I said nothing.
His gaze moved to Hannah.
Then to the folder.
Then back to me.
“You set me up.”
Detective Ortiz replied:
“Mr. Palmer, step into the hallway with us.”
Gregory did not lunge at me.
He did not confess.
Real people who realize evidence may exist often become careful.
He said:
“I’m not speaking without a lawyer.”
That was his right.
The thermos was handled according to evidence procedures.
So was the folder.
The hospital moved me to a different room and restricted visitors.
Dr. Reynolds changed my chart access settings and coordinated with
administration.
Hannah sat beside me after everyone left.
“You okay?”
