And There He Kept Her

In the early hours of the morning, Jesse, a teenager, sprints through the rain to an isolated house on a lake, driven by a dangerous task. The harsh weather and muddy roads do little to deter him as he approaches the dilapidated, eerie house. Its dark-brown, amorphous shape blends into the surrounding darkness, heightening the foreboding atmosphere. Jesse, fueled by urgency and fear, breaks into the basement through a side door, intent on completing his mission quickly and efficiently.

Inside, Jesse uses a penlight to navigate the cluttered basement filled with old furniture, tools, and a disturbing collection of vintage adult magazines. His exploration leads him to a small, enclosed room with a pink-painted wall, a stained mattress, and a heavy chain attached to the wall. The room’s eerie setup, including a door with no handle from the inside, suggests it has been used as a prison cell. As Jesse contemplates the implications of his discovery, he hears a noise and realizes he is not alone.

Jenny, his accomplice, arrives, her concern for his safety evident. Their presence is soon detected by the homeowner, a fat, naked man armed with a double-barreled shotgun, who confronts them at the top of the stairs. Identified as Emmett Burr, the man fires the shotgun, hitting Jesse and causing him to fall onto Jenny, who screams and hits her head on the concrete. The chapter ends with Emmett stepping down the stairs, preparing to fire the second barrel, setting the stage for a tense and violent encounter.

Deputy Ben Packard is en route to visit the sheriff, Stan Shaw, when his radio crackles with a call about a bear attack. Despite it not being his scheduled shift, Packard decides to handle the situation. At the scene, he finds an elderly couple whose dog was killed by the bear, and the husband sustained minor injuries. After declining the wife’s offers of food, Packard tracks the bear to a nearby garage where it is raiding dog food and birdseed. He shoots and kills the bear after it attacks two more people. Arriving late to the sheriff's house, Packard discusses departmental matters with Stan and Marilyn Shaw, reflecting on the day's events and the responsibilities that come with his role.

Deputy Ben Packard arrives at the Sandy Lake County Sheriff’s Department, where Kelly Phelps, the department’s authority figure, questions his presence on his day off. Her disapproval is evident as she interrogates his motives. Packard then meets his cousin, Susan Wheeler, who is frantic because her daughter, Jenny, has gone missing. Susan explains that Jenny was last seen at 11:30 PM the previous night and did not attend school, raising concerns about her whereabouts. Packard learns that Jenny is a type 1 diabetic and has left behind her essential medical supplies, including insulin. Susan admits to sneaking out before and reveals her affair with Sean White Cloud, an EMT and former caregiver for Tom, Jenny’s deceased father. Packard probes Susan about her relationship with Sean and Jenny’s knowledge of it, noting the potential impact on Jenny’s behavior. Despite Susan’s distress, Packard is skeptical of her immediate concern, given her actions after discovering Jenny’s disappearance. Determined to investigate further, Packard considers the possibility that Jenny and her boyfriend, Jesse Crawford, have run away together. He plans to contact Jesse and Jenny’s friends to gather more information. Kelly Phelps interrupts to inform Packard of a crossbow incident involving Gary Bushwright and his wife, Cora, necessitating Packard’s immediate attention. Kelly also mentions the history of missing women in the area, hinting at the gravity of the situation and the potential dangers lurking in Sandy Lake.

Packard reflects on his family’s history at a cabin on Lake Redwing, a place that once held fond memories until his brother Nick disappeared. The loss of Nick, who was never found, led to the disintegration of the family, and the cabin was eventually sold. His return to Sandy Lake was triggered by the death of his partner, Marcus, and the need to escape his past. Neighborhood tensions rise as Packard addresses a crossbow incident involving Gary Bushwright and his neighbor, Cora Shaker. Gary shows Packard an arrow embedded in his garage wall, claiming it was a deliberate act by Cora. Packard warns both Gary and Cora to stop their feud, threatening to arrest them if the conflict continues. Inside Gary’s dog kennel, Packard meets several dogs, including a Welsh corgi with a damaged leg from a puppy mill. Gary suggests that Packard adopt the corgi, sensing that the dog could provide companionship. Packard, still grappling with the loss of his previous dog, Jarrett, is hesitant but intrigued by the idea. The chapter ends with Packard leaving Gary’s, contemplating the offer and his isolation in Sandy Lake.

Packard returns home, his mind still on the idea of adopting a dog and the ongoing renovations of his house. He makes a list of contacts to reach out to regarding Jenny and Jesse’s disappearance, starting with Jenny’s girlfriends, Taylor and Carrie. Neither girl provides much useful information, but Taylor mentions a remote cabin known as the 'Love Shack' that used to be a popular spot for teenagers, though it’s no longer accessible due to security measures installed by the owners.

Next, Packard contacts Ann Crawford, Jesse’s mother, who is uncooperative and dismissive. She confirms that Jesse has been absent and mentions his involvement with drugs, including pills. Ann’s lack of concern and her intoxicated state make her an unreliable source of information. Packard updates dispatch with the details of Jesse’s car and puts out a BOLO (Be On the Lookout) for the vehicle and the teens.

At Susan’s house, Packard and Susan examine Jenny’s room and discover her phone hidden under the mattress. This discovery raises concerns as it is highly unusual for a teenager to leave their phone behind. They review Jenny’s phone, finding no recent activity and a final text from Jesse at 1:38 a.m. saying he was on his way. Susan emphasizes the significance of Jenny leaving her phone, suggesting that something serious must have happened. The chapter ends with a text from Carrie, indicating that Jenny’s Snapchat account was recently active, confirming that the phone had been accessed.

Suffering from intense back pain that his pills cannot alleviate, Emmett Burr leans on his deck railing, smoking and reflecting on his past. The night is cold, and he notices his neighbor, Ruth Adams, smoking on her porch. Ruth was a longtime friend of Myra, Emmett’s ex-wife, and the two haven’t spoken since Myra left him almost two decades ago. Emmett blames Myra for his current predicament, recalling their unhappy marriage and the forced union arranged by their overbearing mothers.

Emmett’s thoughts drift to the night Myra confronted him about his habits, leading to her departure. After her leaving, Emmett fell into a deeper rut, eventually constructing a secret room in his basement where he began his dark activities. Reflecting on his past, he remembers kidnapping Wanda from a gas station, marking the beginning of his crimes.

In the present, Emmett deals with the aftermath of shooting Jesse and capturing Jenny. He calls Carl, a monstrous figure, for help, and together they secure Jenny in the basement. Carl suggests killing Jenny to avoid complications, but Emmett refuses, unable to kill a girl. Carl locks Jenny in the pink room, and the two men discuss the risks of involving the police. Carl mentions the bodies buried on the property, including one that belongs to him, which causes tension between them. As the sun rises, they realize the risk of being seen by neighbors, and Carl’s dark humor about having a new ‘bird’ in his cage angers Emmett, who feels anything but lucky.

The early morning chill does little to deter Packard as he swims in the lake, his mind wandering to his reputation as the 'crazy guy' who braves the cold waters year-round. After his swim, he checks the BOLO for Jesse’s car and the teens, but finds no new leads. Determined to gather more information, he decides to revisit Ann Crawford, Jesse’s mother, hoping to catch her sober this time.

At Ann’s house, Packard encounters Alissa, Jesse’s sister, who is uncooperative and dismissive. He learns that Jesse has a second phone, a fact Ann vehemently denies. Undeterred, Packard follows Ann to her job at Wellards to press her further. Despite her defensiveness, he manages to obtain Jesse’s second phone and arranges to meet her later to search Jesse’s room.

Packard then meets Sean White Cloud at the fire station to discuss his connection to the Wheeler family. Sean, who served as Tom Wheeler’s hospice nurse, denies any recent interaction with Jenny and expresses concern about his status as a registered sex offender. He asks Packard to keep his involvement confidential. Later, Packard picks up Ann from work and takes her home, where they search Jesse’s room. The room is nearly empty, but Packard discovers two phone chargers, confirming Jesse had a second phone.

Throughout the visit, the strained relationship between Ann and Alissa is evident. Ann threatens the boy who was in the house, and Alissa remains resentful and rebellious. Packard tries to engage Alissa in conversation about Jesse’s drug dealing and his plans, but she is initially resistant. Eventually, she provides the number for Jesse’s second phone, though her bitterness and uncooperativeness persist. As Packard leaves the house, the weight of the community’s judgment and the family’s dysfunction presses heavily on him.

Emmett Burr reflects on his first kidnapping victim, Wanda, a woman he met at a gas station. He describes her physical attributes and the ease with which he lured her to his house, securing her in the pink room he had built in his basement. However, the room did not meet his expectations, and the pink paint seemed vulgar to him. This memory contrasts sharply with his current situation, where he feels dread and unease about the new girl, Jenny, whom he and Carl captured after the break-in.

Emmett hesitates to enter the pink room, where Jenny lies shackled and in pain. When he finally does, he finds her in a pitiful state, gagged and restrained. He cuts her out of her clothes, discovering that she has diabetes and requires insulin. Despite her pleas for help, Emmett remains cold and indifferent, only providing her with basic necessities like water and a makeshift meal. He refuses to leave a light on for her, locking her back in the dark room.

Emmett's internal conflict is palpable; he grapples with the reality of his actions and the burden of caring for Jenny, who reminds him of the genie from the TV show 'I Dream of Jeannie.' Haunted by the memories of his past victims and the dark purpose of the pink room, Emmett sits in his rocking chair, watching the sunset and listening to the loons on the lake, contemplating whether he will allow Jenny to die in his basement.

Unexpected May snow forces Packard to skip his usual early-morning swim, opting instead for a rigorous workout in his basement. As he exercises, his mind wanders to the recent disappearances of Jesse and Jenny. He ponders the significance of their missing phones and the planned nature of their outing, hypothesizing about their late-night activities. Could it have been a drug-related meeting or a tragic accident? Packard's thoughts are a mix of speculation and determination, driving him to piece together the puzzle.

Packard visits Sandy Lake High School to gather information about Jesse Crawford. Principal Overby provides limited insights, confirming Jesse's potential involvement in drug dealing but denying any knowledge of his suppliers or connections. Packard plans to return with a list of recent callers to Jesse's burner phone to question students individually.

Leaving the school, Packard encounters Ray Hanson, the local newspaper owner, who presses for information about the missing teens. Packard deftly deflects, maintaining his professional demeanor despite his dislike for Ray. He then handles various duties, including posting a foreclosure notice and delivering divorce papers, each task a reminder of the town's hidden complexities.

During lunch, Packard texts Michael, a recent online acquaintance, expressing a desire to see him again. His thoughts drift to Marcus, a former colleague who was killed in the line of duty, and the weight of his loss. Susan Wheeler interrupts his lunch, presenting flyers for the missing teens and expressing concern about Jenny's medical needs. Packard updates her on the investigation and discusses Jenny's personality and interests, learning more about her relationship with Jesse and her mother's pragmatic approach to personal relationships.

The chapter concludes with Susan explaining her reasons for moving to Sandy Lake and offering advice to Packard about making a life in a small town. Packard reflects on his own reasons for moving to Sandy Lake and his uncertainty about his future there.

Back at the station, Packard pins Susan’s flyer to the bulletin board. Kelly, distracted by her mother’s calls, hands Packard a list of names and numbers that called Jesse’s phone, including Darrel Johnson and Virginia Stevens. Determined to make progress, Packard decides to interview Darrel first, hoping to pressure Virginia into cooperation by showing her the company she’s in.

At the high school, Packard and Principal Overby confront Darrel Johnson, a rebellious student with a history of probation. Despite Packard’s aggressive questioning, Darrel remains defiant and uncooperative, suggesting that Jesse and Jenny are at a hotel. After Darrel leaves, Packard brings in Virginia Stevens, a straight-A student who is visibly shaken. Virginia admits to buying Adderall from Jesse and describes the elaborate process of purchasing drugs from an unknown dealer before Jesse took over.

Virginia reveals a significant detail: she saw Jesse in a red Mustang the night she made a drug purchase, driven by Sam Gherlick, the sheriff’s grandson. This connection sets off alarm bells for Packard, who realizes the importance of this lead. After letting Virginia go with a warning, Packard discusses the revelation with Principal Overby, who confirms Sam’s academic success and his year-off plan, suggesting a deeper involvement in the drug trade.

Just as Packard considers informing the sheriff about Sam’s potential involvement, Kelly calls with news of a severe accident involving an overturned logging truck. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Packard heads to the scene, putting the investigation on hold temporarily.

Emmett sits in his rocker, listening to the girl sing, a rare and pleasant sound in his otherwise desolate home. The door to the pink room and the basement door are open, allowing fresh air to circulate. Emmett lights a cigarette and drinks a beer, reflecting on the state of his health and the weight of his many ailments. His body is deteriorating, and he struggles with the physical demands of caring for the girl, who is in pain from her injuries. Despite his own suffering, Emmett helps the girl clean and dress her wounds, noting her diabetic condition and the limited battery life of her insulin pump. He confronts her about the previous break-ins, suspecting she and Jesse were not the only ones involved.

Packard wakes up feeling exhausted after a long night dealing with a severe accident involving an overturned logging truck. The accident resulted in the deaths of two individuals in a white Chevy Cobalt, which was crushed by the logs. The scene was complicated by the presence of a large quantity of marijuana, and the investigation was prolonged due to the need for specialized equipment to clear the scene. Packard finally returns home at 1:00 AM and is woken up early to continue his duties.

Later, Packard visits Stan Shaw, who is visibly declining in health. Stan shares his deep disappointment with his daughter Patty and her children, particularly Sam, who has been implicated in the drug trade. Stan gives Packard permission to investigate Sam without any preferential treatment. Packard also speaks with Marilyn, who expresses her concerns about Stan's fading hope and the impact of his illness on their family. After the visit, Packard learns that Ray Hanson has started stirring interest in the missing teens' case, leading to media inquiries.

Packard decides to hold a press conference and heads to Sam Gherlick's house to confront him about his involvement with Jesse Crawford. Upon arrival, he discovers Sam's body under his red Mustang, which had fallen on him. Packard suspects foul play and calls for backup. Detective Thielen and Deputy Shepard arrive to assist. Packard finds a non-responsive woman, identified as Sam's sister Shannon, in the house. He also discovers drug paraphernalia and a hidden safe. Packard believes the timing of Sam's death is suspicious and may be connected to the missing teens.

Packard reflects on the possibility that he narrowly missed the killer and delegates the crime scene investigation to Thielen, instructing her to keep an eye on Shepard. He prepares to inform Sam's parents about the tragedy, aware that the investigation is becoming increasingly complex and dangerous.

Emmett, dressed in worn clothing, prepares a fried chicken TV dinner for the girl, who requests more nutritious food to manage her diabetes. Reluctantly, he complies, bringing her a plate with chicken and vegetables. They discuss her dietary needs and the contents of the backpack. The girl mentions her relationship with Jesse and the reason behind their actions, revealing that Jesse was coerced by Sam to steal Emmett's pills.

As they talk, the girl expresses curiosity about Emmett's past, learning that he was once married but has no children. She tries to appeal to his sense of humanity by explaining her need for insulin, which is running low. Emmett, testing her limits, demands her phone in exchange for the insulin pump, which he had taken. After breaking the phone, he confronts her about the value of her life and her freedom, highlighting the power dynamic between them.

The girl becomes desperate, offering to do whatever it takes to get more insulin, even suggesting sexual acts. Emmett, clearly uncomfortable, refuses to engage in this transaction, emphasizing that she has no say in the matter. The chapter ends with Emmett leaving the room, leaving the girl in a state of despair and fear, further emphasizing the psychological and physical control he holds over her.

The Gherlicks' sprawling lakeside mansion looms oppressively as Packard approaches, the weight of his grim news heavy on his mind. Inside, Patty Gherlick is visibly intoxicated and disoriented, rambling about her hatred of weekends and her husband's constant presence. Sensing the urgency of the situation, Packard leaves Patty to find Dan, who is working on a pontoon boat in the boathouse.

Upon seeing Packard, Dan's reaction is one of resignation rather than surprise. Packard informs him that Sam was killed when his car fell on him. Dan is devastated, collapsing in grief. Packard, recalling his own family's trauma when his brother Nick disappeared, empathizes with Dan's pain. He explains the circumstances of Sam's death and the discovery of Shannon, who was found sedated in the house. Dan reveals that both his children are known drug users and confirms Sam's involvement with Jesse Crawford, the last person to contact Jesse before his disappearance.

Worn down by family issues, Dan agrees to allow Packard to search Sam's house, believing that easy money and lack of discipline contributed to Sam's choices. Packard also obtains the combination to a safe found in Sam's room. Before leaving, Packard offers to send a deputy to assist Dan, but Dan insists he will handle everything. As Packard walks away, he sees Dan standing alone on the dock, his shoulders shaking, a poignant image of a man grappling with loss and responsibility.

Packard radios Detective Thielen to inform her that he has obtained the combination to the safe in Sam Gherlick's house and permission from Dan to search the property. Upon arriving at the scene, Packard reviews the evidence collected, including cash, pills, a handgun, and empty prescription bottles with various names. The contents suggest that Sam was either stealing or buying drugs from other kids, indicating a network of drug activity within the school.

While searching the house, Packard and Thielen discover a hidden gun in the ceiling, a vintage .38 revolver with the name 'D. Chambers' scratched into the stock. They also find four disposable cell phones with the batteries removed, suggesting Sam's belief in his invincibility. The search of the guest bedroom where Shannon was found yields little additional information. Packard concludes that Sam's operation was amateurish and limited, primarily serving the school market.

Reflecting on the events, Packard and Thielen speculate that Sam's death might be linked to someone he was targeting for drugs, possibly to keep him quiet about Jesse and Jenny's disappearance. However, they are puzzled by the circumstances of Sam's death, questioning whether it was an accident or a deliberate act. The chapter ends with Packard rushing to a press conference, where he faces questions from reporters, including Ray Hanson, who has stirred media interest in the case.

Following the press conference, Packard is inundated with media inquiries and the bureaucratic aftermath of Sam Gherlick's death. His frustration grows when he speaks with Ann Crawford, Jesse's mother, who is more concerned about her stolen car than her son's disappearance. This indifference underscores the community's apathy, adding to the pressure on Packard's investigation.

Later, Packard receives a call from Gary Bushwright, who is eager to finalize the adoption of the corgi. Feeling the weight of numerous inquiries, Gary insists that Packard come to his house immediately to complete the adoption and pay for boarding. Despite his exhaustion, Packard agrees, hoping a new dog might bring some comfort to his lonely home.

Upon arriving at Gary's house, Packard is met with an atmosphere that feels like a time capsule, filled with relics from Gary's mother's era. Gary shares a surprising and intimate story from his past, revealing his experiences as a male escort and porn star in the 1970s. Intrigued but cautious, Packard listens to Gary's tales and promises to return for the dog in five days, hoping to have resolved the missing teens' case by then.

The chapter ends with Packard reflecting on the complexity of human desires and the universal longing for love and acceptance, a theme that resonates with his own personal struggles and the broader narrative of the investigation.

Emmett sits in his recliner, watching the news about the missing teens, Jesse and Jenny. His breathing is labored, and the stress of the situation exacerbates his deteriorating health. The news mentions that Jenny has type 1 diabetes, which adds to Emmett's concerns as he realizes the girl in his basement is running out of insulin.

Carl arrives unexpectedly, and Emmett quickly hides his oxygen machine. Carl demands to see the girl, threatening to withdraw his help with disposing of the car and the body in Emmett's garage if he doesn't comply. Reluctantly, Emmett leads Carl to the basement, where the girl, terrified and defensive, manages to strike Carl with a piece of chain, injuring his cheek. Carl retaliates by hurting her hand, but Emmett intervenes, warning Carl to leave her alone.

After Carl leaves, Emmett checks on the girl, who is in severe pain from her injuries. He gives her a painkiller and promises to bring her insulin and better food the next day. Emmett reflects on the complexity of his relationship with the girl, acknowledging that he is growing attached to her despite his initial intentions. He also contemplates the upcoming tasks of painting the car and finding a way to dispose of it safely.

Sunday morning, Packard follows up on the calls that came in after the news reports about the missing teens, Jesse and Jenny. The tips are vague and unhelpful, leading him to assign a deputy to make follow-up calls. He then speaks with Gherlick, who updates him on Patty and Shannon's conditions. Shannon is sedated and on a ventilator, and Packard is eager to interview her about Sam's drug activities once she is stable.

Later, Packard goes for a swim at the lake to clear his mind, reflecting on his past relationship with Marcus and the renovations he made to his home as a shrine to Marcus. Upon returning to the station, he attends a meeting with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension regarding the drug runners killed by the overturned semi. The meeting is bureaucratic and unproductive, but Packard remains focused on the connection between the drug trade and the missing teens.

Packard and Thielen divide the task of interviewing the individuals whose names were on the prescription bottles found in Sam's house. Packard visits Olivia McDonald at Lakeside Manor, where he learns that Sam volunteered for Meals on Wheels and had access to the homes of elderly residents. Olivia confirms that Sam was nosy and possibly stole her pain medication. Packard also discovers that Elizabeth Marsh, another resident, has been moved to memory care and was very trusting, which could have allowed Sam easy access to her home.

Thielen, who visited Martin Hughes, confirms similar experiences with Sam's behavior. They decide to talk to Kate Freeman, the director of the Meals on Wheels program, to gather more information about Sam's volunteer work and the extent of his access to other homes. Packard declines Susan Wheeler's offer for dinner at the restaurant, but Thielen agrees to join him, suggesting they meet Kate the next day.

Emmett, anxious about the dead boy in his garage and the girl in his basement, heads to the store to buy supplies. Using a motorized cart, he navigates the aisles, purchasing frozen meals, snacks, a case of beer, toiletries, and insulin for the girl. The pharmacist questions him about the mixed contents of his cart, but Emmett manages to purchase the necessary items. Later, at the library, Emmett's unease deepens when he encounters his ex-wife Myra and librarian Ruth. Ruth mentions that Myra occasionally visits Sandy Lake, sending Emmett into a panic over potential complications. Meanwhile, Detective Thielen visits Emmett's house to ask questions about Sam Gherlick's possession of his prescription pills.

At the Sweet Pea restaurant, Packard and Thielen gather to discuss the case, their conversation overshadowed by the tense atmosphere and the presence of Susan Wheeler, whose daughter Jenny remains missing. Susan appears exhausted and distracted, her eyes red-rimmed from lack of sleep. The detectives share the latest developments, including the death of Sam Gherlick, the last person known to have contact with Jesse and Jenny before their disappearance. When Susan is informed about Sam's death and the possibility of foul play, she questions whether Jesse could have been involved. Packard acknowledges the possibility, though it pains him to consider it. The conversation then turns to Sam's sister, Shannon, who works at Hanson’s Drug Store and has a history of drug use. This new information prompts Packard to decide to visit the hospital to talk to Shannon, who is now awake. Before they leave, Ruth Adams, the librarian, unexpectedly pays for their meal, adding another layer of community involvement and support. Packard plans to talk to Shannon immediately, while Thielen will follow up with Kate Freeman from Lutheran Social Services the next day to gather more information about Sam's volunteer work and the addresses he delivered to.

Jenny sits in Emmett's basement, her body aching from the ordeal. Emmett brings her a meal of baked sweet potato, yogurt, and an oxycodone pill. Despite her anger and refusal to speak, she is relieved to receive the insulin and medical supplies he has brought. Emmett watches her carefully as she calculates the correct dosage and eats, noting the injuries and marks on her body.

After the meal, Jenny is permitted to shower. Emmett watches her closely, feeling a mix of guilt and desire. He helps her with her bandages and cleans her wounds, revealing the extent of her injuries. Jenny's silence continues, but she begins to show signs of trust when she asks for a pencil to calculate her insulin dosage and later requests to keep the lighter handcuffs on instead of the heavy manacles.

During the meal, Jenny questions Emmett about Jesse's fate. Emmett admits to putting Jesse's body in the trunk of their car, which is stored in his garage. He also mentions Carl, who is waiting to dispose of the car and possibly harm Jenny. Jenny pleads with Emmett to protect her from Carl, and he agrees, but warns her that she will owe him something in return. She reluctantly accepts, and they shake on the deal.

The chapter ends with Emmett calling Carl to move the car that night, fearing that the police might return with more questions. He emphasizes the urgency, indicating that the situation is becoming increasingly dangerous.

Packard meets Dan Gherlick at the hospital, where the tension of the missing children case hangs heavily in the air. Dan informs Packard that his wife, Patty, has returned home and that Shannon, his daughter, has agreed to enter rehab. Shannon is consumed by guilt, blaming herself for Sam's death, believing she could have prevented it if she had been more vigilant. Packard and Dan head to Shannon's room, where Packard confronts her about her role in the drug scheme with Sam and Jesse.

Initially defensive, Shannon eventually admits to helping Sam by providing names of patients who received prescriptions for pain pills. Working at the pharmacy, she would inform Sam of valuable prescriptions, which he or Jesse would use to break into homes and steal the drugs. Shannon cannot recall the specific name she gave Sam right before Jesse and Jenny disappeared, but she confirms it was likely for eighty-milligram oxycodone. Packard, frustrated by her vagueness, presses her for more details, but she remains evasive.

The conversation shifts to personal matters as Shannon criticizes Packard, accusing him of being a lonely, secretive man with no real connections in the town. She brings up rumors about his past in Minneapolis and his sexual orientation, suggesting that he is isolated and misunderstood. Packard, though initially taken aback, maintains his composure and advises Shannon to focus on her recovery and future, emphasizing the importance of breaking the cycle of addiction and dependency. He leaves her with his contact information, urging her to call if she remembers anything more.

Outside Shannon's room, Dan looks visibly aged and burdened by the revelations. Packard summarizes what he learned from Shannon and suggests that Dan push her to remember the name she gave Sam, as it could be crucial to finding Jesse and Jenny. Dan expresses his deep sorrow and plans to arrange treatment for Patty as well. The chapter ends with Packard reflecting on the complexity of human connections and the challenges of building a life free from gossip and judgment.

Emmett races to Carl’s house in the dead of night, driving his old, battered Cadillac. The tension is palpable as Emmett reflects on the car’s history and his relationship with Carl, a man he has known for years but trusts not at all. Carl, visibly angry and resentful, joins Emmett, and they set off to retrieve Jesse’s car from Emmett’s garage, planning to dispose of it in the quarries.

As they drive, Carl’s mood darkens, and he threatens to take Jenny for himself, detailing his violent intentions. Emmett, already troubled by Jenny’s condition and the risks involved, becomes increasingly desperate to protect her. The journey takes a dangerous turn when they are pursued by another car, forcing Carl to speed and narrowly escape detection. Once they reach the quarry, they prepare to dump the car, but tensions between Emmett and Carl reach a boiling point.

Carl, fearing the police are closing in, decides to eliminate Emmett to cover his tracks. However, Emmett, realizing the threat to his own life and Jenny’s safety, stabs Carl with a knife, causing him to bleed out. Emmett then manipulates the truck to push both Carl’s body and Jesse’s car into the quarry, ensuring no trace of their crimes remains. As he walks away, Emmett feels a sense of relief, knowing he has eliminated the immediate threats to his and Jenny’s survival.

Despite the violence and chaos, Emmett remains focused on Jenny’s well-being, planning to treat her injuries and continue providing her with necessary medical care. The chapter ends with Emmett walking back to his house, bloodied but determined to protect his captive and maintain his control over the situation.

Packard lies awake, tormented by the missing teenagers and the connection between the prescription pills and the gun found in Sam’s possession. At 2:00 a.m., a call from Sean White Cloud informs him that Susan Wheeler has been admitted to the hospital after a car accident. Packard rushes to the hospital, where Susan, despite her injuries, reveals she was out searching for Jenny and Jesse when she fell asleep at the wheel. He reassures her that he will not stop looking.

At the hospital, Packard encounters Karen Roth, a nurse who had previously asked him out. Their conversation is awkward, and Karen confronts Packard about his sexuality, which he confirms. As he leaves, memories of his brother Nick’s disappearance flood back, unresolved and painful. A call from Mac, the dispatcher, provides new information: the gun found in Sam’s possession belonged to Emmett Burr, a man with a history of physical ailments.

Packard decides to revisit Emmett to ask about the missing gun and pills. Before he can leave, he receives a call from Michael, a nurse from Minneapolis, who expresses surprise at learning Packard is a detective. They agree to meet again in a couple of weeks. Another call from Mac informs Packard that Cora Shaker is reporting her husband missing and that there is blood on her front door. Reluctantly, Packard heads to the Shaker residence, bracing himself for another complicated encounter.

Packard calls Thielen to update her on the new developments and to request that she revisit Emmett Burr. Thielen agrees and mentions that she will obtain a list of Sam’s Meals on Wheels customers to interview. The chapter ends with Packard en route to the Shaker residence, steeling himself for the challenges ahead.

Emmett’s brief respite from the night’s chaos is short-lived as he struggles through the cold, damp night to return home, his body racked with pain and his mind consumed by the need to protect Jenny. After disposing of Carl’s body and Jesse’s car, Emmett’s physical condition deteriorates rapidly, his feet and legs swollen and chafed, and his body covered in blood. His thoughts oscillate between the necessity of eliminating Carl’s family to ensure his own and Jenny’s safety and the overwhelming urge to simply flee. Ultimately, he opts to flee the scene and return to his house.

Upon arriving home, Emmett’s relief is palpable as he stumbles inside, tending to his wounds and attempting to regain his composure. He takes a series of pills and drinks beer, trying to numb the intense pain and fatigue. As he descends to the basement to check on Jenny, he is confronted with a shocking discovery: Jenny has escaped her confines and is attempting to flee. In a desperate and violent confrontation, Jenny uses a bucket of waste to distract Emmett, but her efforts are futile as Emmett, armed with Carl’s gun, quickly regains control of the situation.

With a sense of grim inevitability, Emmett’s resolve solidifies. Jenny’s attempt to escape has forced him to confront the finality of his actions. Fueled by a mix of frustration and resignation, Emmett points the gun at Jenny and pulls the trigger, ending her life and sealing his own fate as a man driven to extremes by his dark secrets and the need to maintain control.

Packard arrives at Cora’s house to investigate the disappearance of Carl Shaker. Cora and Greta report that Carl was home when they went to bed but was gone in the morning, along with the wrecker. Packard and Shepard discover fresh tire tracks and blood at the scene, leading them to a quarry where they suspect Carl might have gone. Packard requests a dive team to investigate the quarry.

At the quarry, the divers find two vehicles submerged: Carl’s tow truck and a maroon car, identified as Jesse Crawford’s Pontiac Grand Am. Inside the tow truck, Carl’s body is found with a stab wound, and in the trunk of the Grand Am, Jesse’s body is discovered. Packard realizes that Carl had helped Emmett Burr dispose of Jesse’s car, but something went wrong, leading to Carl’s death. Concerned about Thielen’s safety, who is currently at Emmett’s house, Packard rushes to alert her and the authorities.

Packard returns to Cora’s house to inform her of Carl’s death and the discovery at the quarry. Cora, though shocked, maintains her faith and resilience. Packard leaves her with the promise of further assistance and rushes to Emmett’s house, fearing for Thielen’s safety and the possibility that Jenny might still be alive and in danger.

Emmett, having killed Jenny, now focuses on disposing of her body. Using a skid loader, he digs a grave in the reddish-black soil, reflecting on the number of deaths he has caused, including Wanda, the jogger, Jesse, the Gherlick kid, Carl, and a woman from a truck stop. Jenny’s failed escape and subsequent death add to his tally, bringing the total to seven. Despite missing his first shot, he managed to force her to swallow a lethal dose of pills, ensuring she would not survive the burial.

As he works, Emmett feels a strange sense of calm, almost as if things are returning to normal. However, he is interrupted by the sound of a woman calling his name, which momentarily startles him. The cigarette he smokes, the same brand found in Jesse’s backpack, brings a grim satisfaction. His thoughts drift to the bodies buried beneath him and the haunting possibility of their spirits joining him in the night.

Returning to the house, Emmett is abruptly confronted by the sight of a black Dodge Charger parked behind his Cadillac, the same vehicle that had followed him home the previous day. He notices the open door at the top of the stairs, a clear sign that someone has entered his house. This realization shatters his fleeting sense of normalcy, and he understands that his life will never be the same again.

Detective Thielen arrives at Emmett’s house, immediately noticing the open garage and signs of a struggle. Blood stains the car and the interior of the house, prompting her to draw her weapon and proceed with caution. The house is in disarray, permeated by a strong odor of mold, mildew, and cigarettes. As she searches, she uncovers evidence of Emmett’s recent activities, including a shotgun, pornographic videos, and a recent prescription for oxycodone.

Descending to the basement, the smell intensifies. There, she finds Jenny Wheeler chained to a wall, heavily drugged and in a state of distress. Jenny warns Thielen that Emmett has a gun and forced her to swallow pills to overdose. Thielen tries to reassure Jenny and promises to get help, but her communication devices are out of range. She steps outside to try to get a signal but hears the sound of a skid loader.

Emmett, operating the skid loader, attempts to crush Thielen’s car. Thielen evades the attack and retreats back to the basement. Recognizing the urgency of Jenny’s condition, she searches for a way to call for backup and discovers an old wall phone with a dial tone. This discovery provides a means to summon help and potentially save Jenny’s life.

Packard races to Emmett’s house, guided by Mac’s directions from dispatch, arriving before backup due to his closer proximity from Carl’s house. He finds Thielen’s car overturned and leaking fuel, a clear sign of a struggle. Concerned for Thielen’s safety, Packard communicates with her via a landline, learning that she is in the basement with Jenny, who is in critical condition and needs immediate medical attention.

Packard and Deputy Wilson coordinate their approach, with Packard providing Thielen with naloxone spray and positioning himself strategically to confront Emmett. Emmett, using a Bobcat, emerges from the brush and attacks, forcing Packard and Thielen to take cover. Emmett’s erratic movements and the use of the Bobcat as a shield make it difficult for Packard and Wilson to get a clear shot. Emmett’s desperation is palpable as he swings the Bobcat between the two officers, trying to protect himself.

The confrontation escalates when Emmett fires a gun, prompting Packard and Wilson to return fire. Emmett is hit multiple times and loses control of the Bobcat, which overturns and plunges into the lake. Packard watches as the Bobcat submerges, and Emmett drowns, unable to escape the heavy machinery. The chapter ends with Packard and Thielen processing the aftermath, with Jenny being taken to the hospital and Packard informing Susan of the rescue.

After the harrowing confrontation at Emmett’s house, Packard arrives at the hospital late in the evening. Jenny is asleep, and Susan, bearing visible injuries from a car accident, sits by her bedside. Susan updates Packard on Jenny’s condition, explaining that she is receiving fluids, antibiotics, and pain medication, and will need surgery on her infected hand. Packard is visibly relieved and emotional, acutely aware of how close they came to losing Jenny.

Susan reads Packard’s thoughts and acknowledges his crucial role in saving Jenny. She mentions the possibility of questioning her decision to move to Sandy Lake but expresses deep gratitude for Packard’s presence. Packard shares some details about the day’s events, including the discovery of Jesse and Carl’s bodies in the quarry and Jenny’s revelations about the bodies buried at Emmett’s property. He reassures Susan that they are searching the property for more evidence.

Packard and Susan have a heartfelt conversation about staying connected, with Packard expressing his commitment to helping them and avoiding the isolation that followed Tom’s death. Susan promises to improve their communication. Before leaving, Packard gives Susan Jenny’s phone, which he retrieved from the station. Susan thanks him, and Packard departs, feeling a mix of relief and exhaustion.

A week after the intense confrontation at Emmett’s house, Packard takes Olivia McDonald, a longtime resident of Sandy Lake, on a date. Dressed in a vibrant outfit chosen by her granddaughter, Olivia joins Packard for a drive through town and along the Sandy Lake shoreline. During the drive, she shares stories about her late husband, a farmer who died tragically, and inquires about Jenny Wheeler’s recovery. Packard updates her, noting that while Jenny’s physical health is improving, her mental state remains uncertain.

As they continue their drive, the conversation turns to the grim discoveries at Emmett’s property, including the bodies of other victims. Packard explains the ongoing investigation and the identification process, which Olivia finds deeply unsettling. To shift the tone, Packard reveals they are heading to Gary Bushwright’s place to pick up a new dog. Gary, known for his past as an adult film actor, greets them warmly and introduces Olivia to the other dogs in his care. Packard and Olivia bond over their shared love of animals, and Gary playfully teases Packard about his new relationship.

Back at home, Packard reflects on the recent events and his decision to adopt the corgi, whom he names Franklin ‘Frank’ after his grandfather. He contemplates the parallels between his grandfather’s patient and loving nature and the need to move forward with his own life. Packard also considers the missing cold-case file of his brother Nick, wondering who might have taken it and why. He calls Michael, a nurse in Minneapolis, to plan a visit, and as he sits with Frank, he feels a sense of peace and purpose.