They drove to Madison in silence to meet with Lafferty's team. Alexandra Drake's autopsy was complete. Afterward, they'd be heading to the state building to meet with Karen Fox, Trisha's former caseworker who'd handled her adoption and foster case.

A light dusting of snow had fallen overnight. The roads were clear, but traffic was slow-going after the first fall of the year.

Nick glanced over at Trisha and then back to the road. She hadn't said much since last night. ...