Kill for Me, Kill for You

Amanda White, a grieving mother, meticulously prepares to commit a premeditated murder. She sterilizes a .22-caliber revolver and plans every detail, from the timing of her actions to the method of concealing her identity. Her target, a man she holds responsible for the deaths of her six-year-old daughter, Jess, and her husband, Luis, has driven her life into chaos, leading her to seek revenge.

On a rainy morning, Amanda boards the subway at the Ninety-Sixth Street station, maintaining a clear line of sight on her target, a man in a black overcoat with a neat dark beard. She sets a timer to coordinate her actions with the train's stops, planning to shoot the man as the doors open at Seventy-Ninth Street, using the crowd to her advantage. However, her carefully laid plans begin to unravel when the man, recognizing her, confronts her just as she is about to pull the trigger.

Amanda hesitates, and the man, Wallace Crone, seizes the opportunity to alert the other passengers and a transit police officer. In the ensuing struggle, Amanda drops the gun into a businessman's golf umbrella and is thrown off balance. The transit police intervene, and Crone accuses Amanda of attempting to shoot him. Despite his denials, Amanda remains unconvinced of his innocence, her resolve hardened by her grief and loss.

Ruth Gelman pours the last of the wine into her glass, feeling the weight of a difficult day. Scott, her husband, sits across from her, his glass empty and his gaze disapproving. Ruth mentions her rough day, but Scott doesn’t inquire further, a pattern that has become increasingly frustrating for her. She feels a growing sense of isolation and unease, especially as she contemplates their attempts to conceive a child and the stress of her demanding job as a Manhattan real estate agent.

Scott leaves for a poker night with friends, including Gordon, who is dealing with a recent separation due to infidelity. Ruth reflects on her own relationship, feeling a mix of love and frustration. She recalls their early days, particularly a second date where Scott’s gentle attentions and thoughtful gestures won her heart. After Scott departs, Ruth indulges in a joint to ease her anxiety, a rare moment of self-care that she hopes won’t affect her fertility efforts.

Late into the night, Ruth wakes from a disturbing dream and discovers Scott is not beside her. She hears the sound of glass crunching downstairs and, initially assuming Scott has returned drunk, goes to investigate. Upon reaching the kitchen, she finds a broken pane in the back door and, in a moment of horror, sees a reflection of a man standing behind her. Before she can react, the man clamps a hand over her mouth and throat, silencing her scream. The last thing Ruth hears before losing consciousness is a terrifying, raspy voice saying, 'Hello there, sweetheart…'

Amanda waits for her lawyer at the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse, her mind replaying the events that led her here. She had been arrested for attempting to shoot Wallace Crone on the subway, and despite the charges, she managed to make bail. Her public defender, Gail Sweet, arrives and negotiates a plea deal that involves probation and mandatory trauma counseling. The judge, acknowledging Amanda's suffering, approves the deal, emphasizing that in the eyes of the law, Crone is innocent of her daughter's murder.

Back at home, Amanda struggles with the weight of her grief and the failure of her plan to kill Crone. She recalls the last night she spent with her daughter, Jess, and her husband, Luis, a night filled with love and normalcy that was shattered by Jess's abduction and subsequent murder. The investigation led to Crone, a known sex offender, but lack of evidence and powerful legal representation allowed him to avoid conviction. Amanda's determination to watch Crone and prevent him from harming others led to her arrest and the eventual dismissal of the charges against him.

Feeling defeated and with no other options, Amanda considers suicide. She buys vodka and sleeping pills, intending to end her life. However, a letter from Crone's lawyers, informing her that he is suing her for $500,000 in damages, reignites her anger and resolve. The letter demands $500,000 in damages, a demand that seems absurd and cruel given her financial and emotional state. Amanda's hatred and determination to protect other families from similar tragedy fuel her decision to continue her pursuit of Crone, despite the odds against her.

In a moment of despair, Amanda visits Jess's bedroom, which remains unchanged since the night Luis read her a bedtime story. Holding Jess's beloved unicorn toy, Sparkles, Amanda is reminded of the happy times they shared. Her resolve strengthens, and she vows to find a way to bring Crone to justice, driven by her love for Jess and her hatred for the man who destroyed her family.

Ruth spends three days in Mount Sinai Hospital before the detectives are allowed to interview her. She had woken in her hallway, in severe pain and bleeding profusely, and managed to call 911 before passing out. Her dreams repeatedly take her back to the moment when the attacker, whose blue eyes and raspy voice haunt her, said, 'Hello, sweetheart…' Ruth's recovery is marked by intense physical and emotional pain, and she experiences a panic attack upon waking, which is only calmed by the presence of a nurse and the administration of medication.

When Ruth regains consciousness again, Scott is by her side, comforting her and reassuring her that the attacker is gone. Despite her weakened state, Ruth is eager to understand what happened, but Scott avoids giving her details. Dr. Mosley informs Ruth that she suffered multiple stab wounds and lacerations and that she narrowly escaped sexual assault. The doctor emphasizes the severity of her injuries and the importance of speaking to the police to aid in the investigation.

Detectives Farrow and Hernandez visit Ruth to gather information about the attack. Ruth describes the man who attacked her, noting his blue eyes, high cheekbones, and dark hair. She recalls that he spoke to her, saying, 'Hi there, sweetheart,' before overpowering her. The detectives reveal that two other women have been killed by the same attacker, which shocks Ruth and Scott. Farrow and Hernandez assure them that every resource is being used to catch the perpetrator, but they admit that there is little forensic evidence to go on.

Ruth, still in pain and emotionally distressed, asks why the attacker let her live. The detectives are vague in their response, indicating that they are working on the case. Scott, frustrated and protective, demands more information, but the detectives leave, promising to follow up. Ruth's determination to survive and assist in the investigation is evident, despite the trauma she has endured.

Exiting the hospital, Farrow and Hernandez discuss the details of Ruth Gelman's attack. Farrow notes that the attacker knocked Ruth out before starting to cut her, suggesting the use of chemicals like chloroform. They agree to check for traces of chloroform in the bodies of the first two victims to see if there's a connection.

Hernandez drives them back to the precinct, and Farrow reflects on his chronic back pain and his reluctance to take painkillers that might dull his cognitive abilities. Their partnership is likened to a good marriage, with mutual understanding and respect. Farrow ponders why the attacker didn’t finish the job with Ruth, unlike the first two victims who were killed with precision.

At the precinct, they review the reports from the neighborhood canvass. A neighbor remembers a cardiac arrest incident that night, which likely spooked the attacker due to the sirens and flashing lights. They also have a description of a tall man in black seen running from the scene. Farrow and Hernandez discuss Scott Gelman's behavior, with Hernandez expressing skepticism about his motives and demeanor, while Farrow suggests a more empathetic view of his protective instincts.

Amanda steps into a redbrick building on Forty-Third Street for her court-mandated trauma counseling session, her steps heavy with reluctance. Her detective friend, Farrow, insisted she attend, but the building's ominous blacked-out windows only deepen her sense of dread. Inside, she meets Matt, the counselor, who introduces her to the Parental Trauma and Bereavement group under the pseudonym 'Jane'.

The group is a mix of faces, each carrying their own silent burdens. Matt outlines the rules, emphasizing the importance of anonymity. Amanda, still grappling with her grief, finds it hard to engage and admits her struggle to vocalize her pain. Wendy, a thin woman with a haunted look, remains silent and lights a cigarette, drawing a rebuke from Matt. The group listens to Betty, a large woman with rosary beads, share her story of forgiving her son's killer, which prompts Wendy to challenge the idea of forgiveness.

After the session, Amanda trails Wendy to a nearby dive bar. Wendy, wary of journalists, demands to see Amanda's driver’s license and verifies her identity online, a process that stirs painful memories for Amanda. Apologetic, Wendy buys her a drink, and the two women sit in a comfortable silence, a rare moment of understanding. Wendy acknowledges Amanda's interest in her stance on forgiveness, suggesting they get drunk first before delving into deeper conversations.

Amanda and Wendy's interaction hints at a potential bond forming between the two women, both of whom are grappling with profound loss and the desire for vengeance. Their shared experience of trauma and the rejection of easy forgiveness suggest that they may find solace and strength in each other’s company.

In her windowless private room at the hospital, Ruth struggles with the disorienting effects of her medications and the uncertainty of time. She tries to adjust her bed and discovers a catheter and a bag of dark orange liquid with red flecks, which adds to her distress. Scott, who has been sleeping, wakes up and helps her adjust the bed, reassuring her that he will never leave her again.

Scott’s reassurance brings back memories of their relationship, particularly a pivotal moment when he proposed to her at a small restaurant in Chinatown. He had quit his job as a prosecutor to take a higher-paying position at a top law firm, all to provide for their future together. Ruth reflects on Scott’s commitment and feels grateful for his support, believing he will help her through her current nightmare.

Dr. Mosley interrupts their moment, requesting to speak with Ruth about her surgery. Despite Scott’s reluctance, Ruth agrees to hear the doctor out. Mosley explains the severity of her injuries and reveals that one of the stab wounds caused significant uterine damage, making it unlikely and potentially dangerous for her to conceive and carry a child naturally. Ruth is devastated by this news, feeling as though a part of her future has been cruelly taken away. Scott holds her hand, offering comfort, but the weight of the news is overwhelming, and Ruth begins to cry uncontrollably.

Kicked out of the bar at eleven p.m., Amanda and Wendy decide to continue their night at Wendy’s spacious and well-furnished apartment, a stark contrast to Amanda’s living conditions. The two women bond over their shared grief and loss, finding solace in each other’s company. Amanda opens up about losing Jess and Luis six months ago, while Wendy reveals that her daughter Rebecca was murdered three years and eleven months ago after being sexually abused by her music teacher, Mr. Quinn. Despite the lack of evidence, Wendy is convinced of Quinn’s guilt and is determined to seek justice.

Wendy’s story deeply affects Amanda, who embraces her in a moment of shared pain. After their emotional conversation, Amanda decides to stay the night on Wendy’s couch. She wakes up the next morning with a pounding headache and realizes she has missed Wallace Crone’s morning commute. While searching for painkillers, Amanda notices a closed-off room that Wendy had warned her not to enter. Curiosity gets the better of her, and she sneaks into the room, discovering a corkboard with newspaper clippings about Saint Patrick’s High School and photographs of Mr. Quinn, the alleged abuser and murderer of Wendy’s daughter.

Amanda is disturbed by the contents of the room and feels a strong connection to Wendy’s quest for justice. She decides to leave without telling Wendy about her discovery, but Wendy catches her before she can go. They exchange a warm goodbye, and Wendy suggests they meet again soon. As Amanda leaves, she contemplates the similarities between her and Wendy’s situations, wondering if she should share her findings about the hidden room.

Ruth stands naked in front of a full-length mirror in her hotel room, examining the seventeen scars on her body, each a painful reminder of the attack that nearly took her life. The longest scar, a horizontal line on her lower abdomen, was made by Dr. Mosley during her emergency surgery. Ruth reflects on the significance of September 14th, the date of the attack, and how it has become a personal dark anniversary alongside 9/11. She feels that every day since the attack has been a continuation of that night, haunted by the memory of her attacker’s face and the recurring nightmares that plague her.

Ruth has not left the hotel room since her release from the hospital, struggling with the trauma and the physical limitations imposed by her injuries. She has not returned to work and has isolated herself from the world. Scott, her husband, has been supportive, but Ruth feels a deep sense of loss, especially after learning from Dr. Mosley that her uterine damage makes it unlikely and dangerous for her to conceive. The house they had planned to raise a family in has become a symbol of her lost future, and Ruth is torn between wanting to reclaim it and fearing its association with the attack.

One evening, Scott suggests watching Jeopardy!, and Ruth agrees. As they settle in, Scott mentions going to the vending machine for snacks, but Ruth decides to go herself, marking her first venture outside the hotel room in a month. She puts on comfortable sweatpants and a T-shirt, takes some money from Scott’s jeans, and places her book at the door to keep it open. With Scott likely watching through the gap, Ruth takes cautious steps down the hallway, her anxiety heightened by the quiet surroundings and the memories of her attack.

Ruth reaches the vending machine, selects her favorite snacks, and bends down to retrieve her change. In the glass reflection, she sees the distorted face of a man standing behind her. Panic sets in, and she lets out a high-pitched scream, her body frozen in terror.

Unable to shake off her thoughts about Wendy and the evidence she found, Amanda decides to investigate further. She packs her laptop and heads to a Starbucks near Grand Central, where she conducts a thorough search on the internet about the case of Rebecca Cotton, the girl Wendy claimed was murdered by her music teacher, Mr. Frank Quinn. Amanda finds several articles from various sources, confirming the timeline and details Wendy provided, including a recent article about Wendy’s arrest for a Facebook post accusing Quinn of being a pedophile and murderer.

As Amanda continues her research, she notices a clearer photograph of Quinn, reinforcing her belief in Wendy’s story. The time passes, and she spots Wallace Crone, her primary target, exiting Grand Central and entering a building across the street. Amanda observes that Crone visits this building every week at the same time, speculating that it might be for a psychiatrist’s appointment, possibly arranged by his wealthy father to manage his criminal tendencies.

The sight of Crone walking freely through the city triggers Amanda’s grief and anger, reminding her of the happy times she spent with her daughter, Jess, and husband, Luis. She recalls a specific summer day when they walked the same streets, visiting the Mary Arnold toy store, a cherished memory that now serves as a stark contrast to her current loss. Determined to act, Amanda texts Wendy, proposing they meet for coffee or a drink, as she has a new idea that might help them both achieve their goals.

Ruth experiences a panic attack after mistaking an elderly man, Mr. Perkins, for her attacker in the hotel hallway. Startled by her sudden scream, Mr. Perkins backs away, but Ruth’s fear overwhelms her, causing her to collapse. Scott, who had been watching from a distance, rushes to her side, and hotel staff and other guests gather to help. Smelling salts are used to revive Ruth, and she apologizes to Mr. Perkins, who reassures her that he understands.

Later, Detective Farrow and Detective Hernandez visit Ruth at the Paramount Hotel to provide an update on her case. Ruth and Scott are present, and Farrow expresses concern about Ruth’s mental health, noting that she hasn’t left the room in six weeks. Ruth admits to having nightmares and constant anxiety, but she resists the idea of seeking therapy, feeling that it is too raw. Farrow offers to provide contact information for therapists, which Scott accepts.

The detectives inform Ruth and Scott that the forensic results from the crime scene have not yielded any useful evidence, such as fingerprints or DNA. They explain that the attacker likely surveilled his victims and knew how to avoid security cameras. Traces of chloroform were found in the first two victims, confirming that the attacks are connected. The detectives are considering releasing a composite sketch of the attacker to the public but are hesitant due to the potential flood of false leads.

Scott becomes frustrated with the lack of progress in the investigation, questioning why the sketch hasn’t been released and why there are no suspects. Farrow explains the challenges of the case, including the need for more manpower and the difficulty of obtaining a conviction based solely on identification evidence. Ruth, tearfully, expresses her fear and desperation, emphasizing that she wants the attacker caught and behind bars. The detectives assure her that they are doing everything possible to find the man, but Ruth remains deeply unsettled by the ongoing threat.

Hernandez and Farrow navigate heavy traffic back to the precinct, their minds still on the case. Hernandez vents her frustration over the lack of forensic evidence, particularly the absence of fibers or DNA from the crime scenes. Farrow concurs, noting the attacker's meticulousness and the challenges of working in unfamiliar environments without leaving a trace.

As they drive, Hernandez suggests the attacker might use a hazmat suit to avoid contamination, but Farrow points out that such suits are widely available and unlikely to lead to a breakthrough. The conversation shifts to Ruth's condition, with Hernandez expressing deep concern for her well-being. Farrow acknowledges that Ruth's recovery will be incomplete, given the traumatic nature of the attack.

The discussion then veers into hypothetical scenarios. Hernandez admits that if she were certain of the attacker's guilt and unable to prosecute, she would take matters into her own hands. Farrow is intrigued by this admission and probes further, asking if Hernandez would do the same for Wallace Crone, the man Amanda attempted to shoot. Hernandez reaffirms her stance, emphasizing her willingness to act if the legal system fails.

Farrow reflects on the moral dilemma, revealing that he has already considered the same question but remains uncertain. The chapter ends with a sense of unresolved tension, as both detectives grapple with the ethical boundaries of their profession and the personal implications of their choices.

Amanda and Wendy, now using the alias Naomi, continue their conversation over drinks at a rooftop bar on the Pod 39 hotel. Amanda reveals that Wallace Crone, the man she believes responsible for her daughter Jess's death, is suing her for harassment. Naomi, intrigued, asks Amanda about her failed attempt to kill Crone on a crowded subway, which ended in her arrest when Crone recognized her and alerted the police.

Naomi, who has been meticulously planning to kill her daughter Rebecca’s alleged murderer, Frank Quinn, listens intently to Amanda’s story. She confesses that she has also considered killing Quinn but has been deterred by the fear of being caught. Sensing a kindred spirit, Amanda suggests a mutual arrangement inspired by the movie 'Strangers on a Train.' The idea is for each of them to kill the other’s target, thereby creating solid alibis and avoiding suspicion.

Naomi, initially skeptical, becomes increasingly interested in Amanda’s proposal. She acknowledges the risks but agrees that it could work, emphasizing the need for airtight alibis. The two women, now bonded by their shared desire for revenge, decide to proceed with the plan. They agree to share all the information they have on their targets and to coordinate their actions carefully.

The chapter ends with a sense of foreboding and excitement as Amanda and Naomi shake hands, sealing their deadly pact. Both women are determined to bring justice to their deceased children, even if it means venturing into the dark realms of illegal and morally ambiguous actions.

Scott returns to the district attorney’s office, a place he hasn’t visited since he left his job as a prosecutor. He reflects on his journey from a young, bullied teenager to a successful lawyer, driven by a desire to protect the vulnerable. His current visit is fueled by frustration with the lack of progress in Ruth’s case and his belief that the police and DA’s office are not doing enough to catch the attacker.

Meeting with David O. Rush, the assistant district attorney handling Ruth’s case, Scott expresses his dissatisfaction with the investigation. Rush defends the team’s efforts, highlighting the challenges posed by the lack of concrete evidence and the difficulty of securing a conviction based on Ruth’s identification alone. Despite Rush’s reassurances, Scott remains disillusioned and angry, feeling a deep sense of powerlessness that echoes his high school bullying.

Haunted by memories of helplessness, Scott leaves the DA’s office feeling defeated. He wanders the streets, determined to find the man who attacked Ruth. His resolve is driven by a fierce need to protect Ruth and reclaim control over his life. The chapter ends with Scott’s unwavering commitment to finding a way to bring the attacker to justice, even if it means taking matters into his own hands.

A week after the police visit, Ruth and Scott step into the hotel elevator to go to dinner. Ruth grips Scott’s hand tightly, a mix of fear and determination evident in her eyes. The elevator ride is smooth, and as they reach the lobby, Ruth hesitates, her panic rising. Scott reassures her, and with his encouragement, she takes a few steps into the lobby, surrounded by strangers and the soft jazz playing in the background.

Once in the restaurant, Ruth sits with her back to the wall, scanning the room. She feels a sense of safety with Scott by her side, but her hands still tremble, and she is hyper-aware of her surroundings. Scott orders a glass of Malbec, but Ruth declines, still affected by the trauma of the attack. They attempt to have a normal conversation, but Ruth’s mind keeps drifting back to the night of the attack, dividing her life into a clear before and after.

As they wait for their food, Ruth notices a man sitting alone, cutting his steak with a sawing motion. His blue eyes and the way he speaks to the waitress, saying 'Thank you, sweetheart,' trigger a deep, primal fear in Ruth. She recognizes him as her attacker, and her panic escalates. She excuses herself to the bathroom, where she locks herself in a stall, trying to calm down with breathing exercises. Her efforts are futile, and she knows she must leave immediately.

Returning to Scott, Ruth drags him to the hallway and points out the man, insisting that he is the one who attacked her. Scott looks confused, but Ruth’s certainty and fear are undeniable. The chapter ends with Ruth’s desperate plea for them to leave the restaurant, her conviction that the man is indeed her attacker.

Amanda steps into the musical instrument store for her support group meeting, where Matt, the counselor, greets her. She takes a seat, saving one for Naomi, but Naomi doesn’t show up, sending a text message explaining her absence. Amanda feels a mix of disappointment and embarrassment, wondering if their pact was just a drunken fantasy.

During the meeting, Amanda’s mind drifts to her routine of surveilling Crone and the emptiness she feels without a purpose. She reflects on her loss and the rage that fuels her desire for revenge. After the meeting, Amanda spends a restless night plagued by the same recurring dream of her family on a distant beach.

The next morning, Amanda watches the Ninety-Sixth Street subway station, expecting to see Crone, but he does not appear. Concerned, she checks the news and wonders if he has left town. Later, she goes to the Starbucks where she usually watches Crone enter the building, but he is a no-show. Just as she is about to leave, Naomi calls and reveals she is at the coffee shop, having something important to tell Amanda.

Naomi explains that she killed Crone the previous night while Amanda was at the support group meeting. She assures Amanda that Crone will not show up for work or his appointments and that his lawsuit against her will disappear. Naomi’s revelation shocks Amanda, but she is also relieved and grateful. Naomi’s actions have set the stage for Amanda to fulfill her part of the deadly pact.

Ruth and Scott are in the hotel alcove, discussing the man Ruth believes is her attacker. Ruth is visibly distressed, her teeth grinding and tears threatening to spill. She is adamant that the man with the blue eyes in the restaurant is the same person who attacked her, a fact she repeats emphatically, driven by the vivid and haunting memories of the attack. Scott, visibly hurt by Ruth’s comment about his absence during the attack, tries to console her but is clearly shaken by the situation.

Ruth’s panic escalates as she recounts the man’s presence in her dreams and the reality of seeing him in the restaurant. The waiter interrupts their tense conversation, and Ruth, with Scott’s help, manages to convince the waiter that they need to leave. As they exit the restaurant, Ruth ensures Scott stays between her and the man, her fear intensifying with each step. The man’s half-smile and deliberate action of licking the steak knife, his eyes fixed on Ruth, send her into a state of near-collapse. She urges Scott to get her back to the room as quickly as possible.

Once in the elevator, Ruth’s anxiety is palpable, and she jams a chair under the door handle for added security. Scott, still processing the situation, expresses his frustration with the police’s lack of action and his desire to confront the man himself. Ruth, terrified and protective, pleads with Scott not to go near the man, emphasizing the danger he poses. Scott, determined to find out more, promises to be careful and suggests he will only observe the man’s movements. Ruth, exhausted and overwhelmed, takes the pills Scott offers and falls into a drug-induced sleep, her last words a plea for Scott to stay safe.

Scott’s resolve to protect Ruth is evident, but his past as a prosecutor and his current frustration with the system’s failures add a layer of complexity to his decision. The chapter ends with Ruth asleep, her trust in Scott absolute, and Scott preparing to take matters into his own hands, highlighting the deep bond and mutual dependence between the two.

Naomi reveals to Amanda that she has killed Wallace Crone, the man Amanda believed was responsible for her daughter Jess's murder. In a chilling recount, Naomi details how she disguised herself as a prostitute, entered Crone's apartment, and used pepper spray to incapacitate him before stabbing him to death. She assures Amanda that the security cameras will show a woman in a red wig, providing Amanda with a solid alibi.

Amanda is shocked and overwhelmed, feeling a mix of relief and fear. Naomi presses Amanda to fulfill her part of the deadly pact by killing Frank Quinn, the man Naomi believes murdered her daughter Rebecca. Naomi insists that the killing must happen that night, before the police discover Crone’s body and start investigating Amanda. She argues that the longer Amanda waits, the more difficult it will be to carry out the plan.

Amanda struggles with the immediacy of the request, feeling unprepared and terrified. Naomi reassures her, emphasizing the importance of their shared mission and the need to protect other potential victims. She reminds Amanda of the hate and determination that drove her to plan Crone’s murder and encourages her to draw on that same resolve. Naomi’s emotional plea and the reality of Crone’s death push Amanda closer to accepting the task, though she remains visibly shaken.

The chapter concludes with Naomi’s final appeal to Amanda, urging her to be brave and to remember the reasons for their pact. Naomi’s words resonate with Amanda, who nods, indicating her reluctant acceptance of the challenge. The two women’s bond is strengthened by their shared sense of purpose and the gravity of the task ahead.

Scott waits until Ruth is fast asleep before slipping out of the hotel room, driven by a relentless need to confront the man she identified as her attacker. He heads to the restaurant, where the man is still seated, and devises a plan to retrieve the check to get a closer look at him. Confirming the man’s presence, Scott positions himself strategically in the lobby, observing the man as he leaves the restaurant and heads towards the elevators.

Scott follows the man into the elevator, noting his distinctive appearance and the cold, calculating nature of his eyes. The man, who confirms he is from New York, exchanges a few words with Scott, using the term 'sweetheart'—the same word he used during Ruth’s attack. This confirms Scott’s worst fears: the man is indeed Ruth’s attacker, and he is staying in the hotel. Scott’s anger and determination surge as he realizes the man’s intentions.

As the man exits the elevator on the twelfth floor, Scott follows him closely, his heart racing with a mix of fear and resolve. He imagines the man’s earlier actions, breaking into their home and attacking Ruth. The realization that the man is there to finish what he started—killing Ruth—drives Scott to act. His breath becomes ragged, and his body shakes with adrenaline as he follows the man down the hallway, his mind boiling with questions and a fierce desire for justice.

Scott’s vision narrows as the man slows and stops at room 1248. As the man unlocks the door, Scott grabs an empty wine bottle from a nearby tray and swings it at the man’s head with all his might, determined to protect Ruth and avenge her attack.

Amanda spends two hours with Naomi, meticulously planning the details of Frank Quinn’s routine and the layout of his house. Naomi’s strategy involves Amanda entering Quinn’s backyard through an unlocked alley gate and using a dumpster to climb over the eight-foot-high wall. Once inside, Amanda is to use an axe from the toolshed to kill Quinn, following a series of precise steps to ensure success and create an alibi.

Amanda arrives at Quinn’s house, parking three blocks away. She observes the area, noting a man in a dark-colored Chevy Escalade watching her, but dismisses it as a neighbor. She confirms the layout and the lack of immediate threats, feeling a sense of peace knowing that Crone is dead, thanks to Naomi. She lights a cigarette and prepares herself for the task ahead.

Following Naomi’s instructions, Amanda enters the alley and climbs over the wall. She approaches the toolshed, which is secured by a rusty padlock. She breaks the lock and retrieves the axe, placing a burner phone inside the shed. As she stands ready to break the kitchen window, a wave of doubt washes over her, overwhelming her with the reality of what she is about to do.

Amanda swings the axe at the kitchen window, shattering it. She hides behind the toolshed, heart pounding, and waits. Quinn, hearing the noise, emerges with a baseball bat. Amanda, holding the second burner phone, dials the preprogrammed number. As Quinn approaches the shed, she sees her chance to strike. However, she freezes, unable to bring herself to kill Quinn. Quinn, sensing something amiss, confronts Amanda. Despite her attempts to retreat, Quinn attacks her, pinning her to the ground and choking her, his eyes blazing with a sinister intent.

Driven by a mix of rage and fear, Scott confronts the man Ruth identified as her attacker in the hotel room. The man, who confirms he is from New York and uses the term 'sweetheart', is indeed Ruth’s attacker. Scott’s initial attack with a wine bottle incapacitates the man, but the man fights back fiercely, landing several blows on Scott’s face and throat. Overwhelmed by a primal rage and the need to protect Ruth, Scott repeatedly stabs the man in the face with the broken bottle, ultimately gouging out one of his eyes.

After the brutal attack, Scott, now a trembling mess, realizes he needs to cover his tracks. He strips off his blood-soaked clothes and takes a quick shower. Using his knowledge as a former assistant district attorney, Scott methodically changes into the attacker’s clothing, including multiple pairs of socks to fit the large shoes. He retrieves the attacker’s key card and washes it clean. Scott then carefully navigates the hotel’s layout to avoid cameras, using the stairwell to exit the building through the basement parking lot.

Scott’s adrenaline-fueled actions and quick thinking allow him to escape the scene undetected. He is now focused on his next steps, aware that he must do some shopping to further cover his tracks and protect Ruth. The chapter ends with Scott on the street, his mind racing with the gravity of his actions and the necessity of his next moves.

Amanda is in a life-or-death struggle with Frank Quinn, who has her pinned to the ground and is choking her. On the verge of losing consciousness, a primal survival instinct kicks in. She reaches into her jacket pocket and pulls out a screwdriver, driving it into Quinn’s bicep and causing him to release his grip. Gasping for air, Amanda gets to her knees and then to her feet, but her knee is injured, and Quinn is still between her and the back gate.

Realizing she cannot outrun Quinn, Amanda limps toward the toolshed and slams the door shut just as Quinn swings the axe at it. She grabs a ball-peen hammer and braces herself against the door as Quinn continues to try to break through. The police sirens are getting closer, but Amanda knows she must act quickly. She waits for the right moment, lets go of the door, grabs the hammer, and then slams the door shut again, wrenching the axe from Quinn’s grip. She strikes Quinn with the hammer, knocking him unconscious.

Quinn regains consciousness and lunges at Amanda with the screwdriver, but she is prepared. She raises the axe and swings it with all her strength, embedding it in Quinn’s chest. He falls to the ground, dead. Knowing the police are close, Amanda quickly breaks the lock on the back gate and limps into the alley. She notices a black Escalade parked behind her car, which she recognizes from earlier. Suspicious and afraid of being recognized, Amanda decides to walk to the subway instead of driving.

As Amanda walks away, she hears a car door slam behind her. She continues to the subway, her mind racing with the events of the night and the potential dangers that still lie ahead. The chapter ends with Amanda heading into the night, determined to stay alive and avoid detection.

Still reeling from the adrenaline and panic of his confrontation with Ruth’s attacker, Scott heads to a nearby Target to purchase supplies necessary to cover his tracks. He buys a large backpack, trash bags, latex gloves, and bleach, among other items, all paid for in cash to avoid leaving a trail. Back at the hotel, Scott meticulously cleans the crime scene, ensuring no trace of his DNA or fingerprints remains. He changes into the new clothes he bought, stuffing the old, blood-stained ones into a trash bag inside the backpack.

Once the cleanup is complete, Scott returns to his room, where Ruth is sleeping. She wakes up in a panic, and Scott calms her down, lying about his activities to protect her. He tells her that he followed the man and learned his name, Patrick Travers, but assures her that they need to leave the hotel immediately for their safety. Ruth, still traumatized but trusting Scott, agrees to leave. They quickly pack their belongings and prepare to depart, with Scott carrying the backpack containing the incriminating evidence.

Scott’s decision to lie to Ruth is driven by his desire to protect her from the harsh reality of what he has done. He believes that revealing the truth now could cause her to break down, and he is determined to ensure their safety and future. The chapter ends with Scott and Ruth ready to leave the hotel, planning to take a cab to Grand Central and catch a train out of the city, hoping to start anew and escape the threat of the attacker.

Amanda arrives at the Christopher Street subway station, her heart pounding as she notices a man following her. She quickly boards a train, ducking down to avoid being seen. The man, whom she recognizes as the one from the black Escalade, misses the train. At Times Square, Amanda changes trains and heads to Grand Central, where a fleeting moment of connection with a fearful woman on the escalator offers a brief respite from her anxiety.

Once at her apartment, Amanda vomits, then takes a hot bath to soothe her injuries. Reflecting on her actions, she grapples with her father’s views on civil rights, realizing that legality and morality often diverge. Memories of happier times with Jess bring a mix of guilt and relief at being alive.

The next morning, Amanda dresses and goes to a deli for breakfast. She tries to call Naomi but gets no answer. As she finishes her meal, a man enters the subway station, and her heart races when she recognizes him as Wallace Crone, the man Naomi claimed to have killed. Amanda rushes to the station, but by the time she reaches the platform, the train is pulling away. Through the window, she sees Crone’s face, confirming that he is alive and Naomi lied to her.

Ruth clings to Scott as they navigate through the bustling MetLife Building, her fear palpable. Every step brings back memories of her childhood trauma, where shadows and sounds seemed to hide monsters. At Grand Central, they miss their train and decide to take the ferry to Red Hook. On the ferry deck, Ruth finds temporary solace in the isolation and fresh air, though the cold does little to ease her anxiety. She observes Scott, noticing his distress, and finds him vomiting over the side of the ferry, attributing it to seasickness. Scott reassures Ruth, praising her bravery and promising to find a safe place to discuss their next steps. Ruth, still gripped by fear, expresses her anxiety about Travers finding them. Scott holds her, offering his strength and protection, and reassures her that everything will be okay.

Amanda limps back to her apartment, her body aching from the encounter with Frank Quinn. She reaches for a bottle of vodka, taking a long swig to soothe her frayed nerves. Naomi’s lie about killing Crone has shattered Amanda’s sense of peace and purpose. The betrayal cuts deep, and Amanda vows to kill Crone herself, but not immediately. She needs to understand what has happened first.

Amanda retrieves the printed articles she had found on Frank Quinn and Naomi, only to discover that the URLs are fake, with one letter altered. She searches online for the articles and finds that all the links lead to error messages. Realizing that Naomi had set up a trap, Amanda feels a mix of anger and confusion. Determined to confront Naomi, she heads to her apartment, finding the door slightly ajar—a rare piece of luck in her current state of desperation.

Amanda pounds on Naomi’s door, but there is no answer. Undeterred, she uses a fire extinguisher to break down the door. Inside, the apartment is completely empty, devoid of any furniture, decorations, or signs of life. The stark emptiness confirms Amanda’s fears: Naomi had lied about everything, and the man Amanda killed last night was not Frank Quinn. Amanda is left with more questions than answers, and the realization that she has put herself at enormous risk. She decides to focus on uncovering the truth about Naomi and the identity of the man she murdered before pursuing Crone.

Ruth clings to Scott as they board a cab from the Red Hook ferry port to Jamaica station, then switch to a train bound for Huntington, Long Island. Her fear is palpable, and she questions why they couldn’t have taken a direct train from Grand Central. Scott insists on keeping moving to avoid detection, explaining their plan to take a train to Port Jefferson, a midnight ferry to Bridgeport, and another train to Hartford, where he once lived with his parents.

At the Starbucks in the train station, Scott works on his laptop while Ruth barely touches her food, her anxiety mounting. Scott excuses himself to use the bathroom, assuring Ruth that they are safe and that he will be quick. Left alone, Ruth’s anxiety spikes, and she glances at Scott’s laptop, noticing he is checking local news in New York, which she has been avoiding since the attack. Scott returns, his hair wet and looking more composed, and starts booking an Airbnb.

The train to Port Jefferson is quick, and they take a cab to the ferry, where the streets of the Long Island town are dark and deserted. On the ferry, Scott and Ruth head to the top deck, enjoying the cold, soothing air. The ferry is more crowded than expected due to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Scott leans against the rail, trying to make Ruth smile despite the stress. For a moment, Ruth feels a sense of normalcy, but it is short-lived. She notices that Scott’s backpack, which contained the incriminating evidence, is missing. Her heart races as she realizes something is wrong. A faint splash confirms her worst fears, and she understands that Scott has abandoned her.

Farrow and Hernandez arrive at a brownstone in New York, where the forensics team is wrapping up their work. Farrow, still grappling with his worsening back pain, moves slowly toward the scene. Hernandez updates him, noting that the forensics team found little of value and that they won’t know more until lab results come back.

Inside the brownstone, the detectives observe a neatly organized home with a distinctly male touch. They find a broken kitchen window, but it doesn’t appear to have been used for entry. Farrow and Hernandez step into the backyard, where they encounter Detectives Donnelly and Carter, known as 'Statler and Waldorf.' The yard is large and well-kept, with a toolshed and a pool of blood on the lawn.

Farrow and Hernandez examine the toolshed, where they discover a fire axe embedded in the victim’s chest and a broken lock on the back gate. The scene suggests a violent struggle, but the details don’t align with the typical modus operandi of the attacker they are investigating. Donnelly and Carter believe it to be a domestic dispute, but Farrow and Hernandez remain skeptical, noting inconsistencies in the evidence.

Farrow and Hernandez discuss their doubts with Donnelly and Carter, pointing out the unusual nature of the broken locks and the broken window. Donnelly and Carter, however, are confident that the victim, who is still alive, will provide more information once he recovers. Farrow and Hernandez agree to stay involved, given the possibility that the case might be connected to their ongoing investigation.

Amanda sits on her couch, her mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. Once a woman with dreams of painting and raising a family, her life is now a shadow of its former self, consumed by anger and pain after Wallace Crone destroyed everything she held dear. The memories of her happy life with Luis and Jess are a stark contrast to her current state of despair and rage. She feels a deep sense of loss and frustration, unable to work, paint, or even mourn properly.

The thought of turning on the TV to learn about the man she killed fills her with dread. She cries for the first time in a long while, not for herself but for the man she murdered. The idea of confessing to Detective Farrow crosses her mind, but she realizes there is no evidence linking her to Naomi, and confessing would likely result in a life sentence. Naomi has vanished, and the police would not believe Amanda’s story of manipulation.

Determined to find out why Naomi targeted the man and to seek answers, Amanda finally turns on the TV. The news reports a brutal home invasion in Greenwich Village, where a fifty-five-year-old man is in critical condition after being stabbed with an axe. Amanda realizes this is the man she attacked, and he is still alive. This brings a mix of relief and fear—relief that she did not take a life, but fear that he could identify her. She knows the police have her mug shot and DNA from her previous arrest, and if the man recovers, he could easily identify her.

Amanda decides to put her plan to kill Wallace Crone on hold and focus on finding Naomi. She changes the bandage on her knee, takes more painkillers, and heads out. She is determined to uncover the truth and seek justice, refusing to be a victim any longer. The clock is ticking, and she knows the police will be looking for her soon, but she is driven by a need for answers and revenge.

Sunlight filters through the curtains, warming Ruth’s face as she stirs in the Airbnb in Hartford. She notices Scott’s side of the bed is empty and cold, a stark reminder of his restlessness the previous night. Ruth gets up, stretches, and gazes out the window at the decaying neighborhood of Frog Hollow. She finds Scott in the kitchen, his eyes glued to the TV, his demeanor tense and cold. Concerned, Ruth approaches him, but his silence and detachment alarm her.

Returning to the bedroom to dress, Ruth’s mind races with worry. When she reenters the kitchen, Scott is still fixated on the news. The anchor reports a brutal murder at the Paramount Hotel, where they had been staying. Ruth’s heart pounds as she connects the dots: the man murdered in the hotel, Scott’s disappearance and change of clothes, and the missing backpack. She confronts Scott, demanding to know what he did last night.

Scott’s reaction confirms her worst fears. He breaks down, admitting that he killed the man she identified as her attacker, Patrick Travers. He explains that he lost control and hit Travers with a wine bottle, and in the ensuing struggle, he was forced to defend himself. Scott had cleaned the scene and disposed of the incriminating evidence. Initially terrified, Ruth realizes that Scott has saved her from Travers. She kneels beside him, wipes his tears, and kisses him, expressing her gratitude and love.

Amanda paces the small apartment, her mind racing with two potential strategies to track down Naomi. The first involves uncovering the real identity of the man she attacked, hoping it will lead her to Naomi. However, she is wary of approaching the hospital, fearing arrest and the risk of the man identifying her once he wakes up. She decides to investigate the man’s identity through news alerts but finds no useful information. The second method involves leveraging Matt and the counseling group to uncover Naomi’s real identity, as Naomi would have had to show ID to join the group.

Feigning distress, Amanda meets Matt at a diner, expressing concerns about Wendy’s intimidating behavior and her impact on the group. Matt agrees to speak with Wendy and promises to call her after their meeting. Seizing the opportunity when Matt goes to the bathroom, Amanda searches his car and finds Wendy’s file. The file confirms that Wendy’s real name is Naomi Cotton and reveals that she joined the group two weeks before Amanda, suggesting she anticipated someone might try to trace her through the group.

Amanda returns to the diner, subtly placing Matt’s keys under the table to avoid arousing suspicion. She leaves the diner, heading for the subway to reflect on her findings. Realizing that Naomi is more dangerous and well-prepared than she initially thought, Amanda is determined to uncover the truth about Naomi and the man she attacked, driven by the need to justify her actions and avoid wrongful arrest. She plans to visit the man in the hospital that night to learn more, despite the risks.

Scott takes an hour to calm down after confessing to Ruth that he killed Patrick Travers, the man she identified as her attacker. Ruth sits with him on the kitchen floor, holding him as he rocks back and forth, his arms wrapped around himself. He repeatedly asks how he could have done such a thing, and Ruth, recognizing his desperate need for justification, reassures him that he did the right thing. She emphasizes that the police would have let Travers go, and he would have continued to hunt them and other women. Ruth’s words provide some comfort, and Scott begins to nod, sniffing and letting out a low moan as he tries to accept her reasoning.

As they hold each other, Ruth is reminded of a powerful memory from her senior year of high school, when her mother, Beth, was undergoing chemotherapy for stomach cancer. Ruth had supported her mother through the grueling treatment, holding her hair as she vomited and wiping her body with a cool cloth. On the day of Ruth’s senior prom, which coincided with Beth’s scan results, Ruth had decided she would skip the prom if the news was bad. When Beth emerged from the consultation room, she walked calmly to the bell in the hallway and rang it, signaling that she was cancer-free. The sound of the bell and the applause of the clinic staff were a moment of profound relief and joy for Ruth, a feeling she now experiences again with Scott.

Ruth feels an overwhelming sense of relief and elation, knowing that the threat of the attacker is over. She cups Scott’s face in her hands and tells him that he did the right thing, urging him to stop crying. Scott nods, clears his throat, and Ruth suggests he make some coffee while she goes to the store to get breakfast. Scott looks at her, surprised and doubtful, asking if she is leaving him. Ruth reassures him that she is going out on her own, just as she used to, and that there is no reason to be afraid anymore. She emphasizes that Scott has given her her life back, and she is ready to reclaim it.

Amanda spends three hours icing her knee and planning her next move while watching news bulletins about the home invasion and other violent crimes. She learns that the man she attacked is named Frank Quinn, confirming his real name but finding no additional information about him online. Determined to uncover more, Amanda decides to break into Quinn’s house, believing it could provide clues about Naomi and the man’s true identity.

Dressed in black and packing a small bag with essential tools, Amanda takes the subway to Greenwich Village. She checks her car and the area for any signs of the man who had tailed her, finding no immediate threats. Proceeding to Quinn’s property, she notes the front door sealed with crime scene tape and the house dark and unoccupied. Amanda slips through the back gate and enters the yard, observing that the toolshed and broken window from the previous night remain untouched.

Inside the toolshed, Amanda realizes she had forgotten to retrieve the burner phone Naomi gave her, now in police possession. She quickly regains her focus and uses a screwdriver and duct tape to break the glass in the back door and unlock it. Once inside, she gives herself ten minutes to search the house for any documents or clues about Quinn’s identity. She finds utility bills and a lockbox in the nightstand, but before she can open it, she hears people entering the house.

Amanda quickly hides under the bed in the main bedroom, taking the lockbox with her. She holds her breath, listening to the voices and footsteps in the hallway, preparing for the worst.

Farrow and Hernandez arrive at Frank Quinn’s property, driven by Farrow’s instincts that the case is more complex than a simple domestic dispute. Despite their initial agreement to leave it alone, Farrow convinces Hernandez to take a closer look, emphasizing the unusual details that don’t fit the profile of a typical home invasion. Hernandez remains skeptical, citing their already full caseload and the potential backlash from their lieutenant, but she agrees to give the case a thorough examination.

The house is minimalist and well-organized, with no immediate signs of a struggle. Hernandez checks the desk drawers, finding that Quinn is a self-employed consultant with a substantial amount of money in the bank. They also discover that Quinn has no family ties or marriage records, deepening the mystery around his identity and occupation.

Farrow and Hernandez decide to check the upstairs bedrooms and the backyard, hoping to find more clues. Farrow’s persistence is evident as he believes the broken locks on the toolshed and back gate indicate an intruder rather than a domestic dispute. Hernandez, though reluctant, agrees to give the case a thorough examination before deciding whether to take it over from Statler and Waldorf.

Heavy footsteps on the stairs and the squeak of a step near the top make Amanda nervous. She hears a male and female voice downstairs, discussing something casual. The male voice sounds familiar, and she guesses it might be the police or a landlord. The hallway light comes on, and the door to the master bedroom is open, casting a triangle of light onto the carpet.

More footsteps indicate that both individuals are now upstairs. Amanda hears the creak of a door and the snap of a light turning on, followed by the noise from a fan. She deduces they are in the bathroom. The male voice, which she recognizes as Detective Farrow’s, comments on the number of pills in the bathroom cabinet. Amanda realizes Farrow is investigating the crime scene, and she is trapped under the bed with a lockbox.

Amanda considers her options: escaping through the window or staying hidden and praying. The window is a risky option due to her injured knee, so she decides to stay hidden. She flattens her hands and places her head down on the carpet, trying to remain as still as possible. The dust in the room irritates her throat, and she must suppress the urge to cough or sneeze.

Farrow and his partner enter the guest bedroom, and Amanda watches their movements through the gap under the bed. She feels her body aching from the lack of movement and the pain in her knee. Farrow opens the nightstand drawer, and Amanda worries he will find the lockbox and look under the bed. She holds her breath as Farrow crouches, and his fingers reach for the bottom of the bedsheets.

Farrow and Hernandez continue their meticulous search of Frank Quinn’s property, their eyes scanning every detail for clues. Farrow, drawn to the half-open drawer of the nightstand, ponders the significance of its contents but finds nothing immediately valuable. The rest of the house is impeccably organized, with a distinctly masculine aesthetic that reinforces the impression that no woman lives there.

Hernandez directs Farrow to an adjacent bedroom, where she points out a bookcase filled with books on counterespionage, biographies of ex-CIA and ex-KGB agents, and manuals on spy tradecraft and cyber warfare. Farrow muses that Quinn might be involved in illegal activities, suggesting they should examine his computer if he doesn’t recover soon. Hernandez agrees that the attack doesn’t feel like a professional hit, noting that hitmen typically don’t use victims’ own tools to kill them.

Farrow picks up a book on identity theft, considering the possibility that Quinn might be a crook. Despite the lack of definitive evidence, Farrow’s instincts tell him that something is amiss. He suggests they take one more look downstairs, starting with the kitchen, before concluding their investigation. The chapter ends with the detectives preparing to thoroughly check the kitchen and backyard.

Amanda listens as Farrow and his partner descend into the kitchen, her body aching and her knee throbbing. She inches forward, dragging herself with her arms and pushing with one leg, her mind racing with the need to escape before they discover the broken back door. Her eyes fall on a metal lockbox hidden beneath a loose floorboard. With trembling hands, she opens it and finds five fat rolls of cash, each as thick as a soda can. Shocked by the amount of money, Amanda takes three rolls, rationalizing that Quinn wouldn’t miss it and that she needed the cash to run. She slides down the banister to avoid the creaky stairs, her heart pounding with each step.

Detective Andrew Farrow and Detective Karen Hernandez stand at the back door of Frank Quinn’s property, noticing it is slightly ajar and a windowpane above the lock is broken and taped with black duct tape. They draw their weapons and cautiously check the backyard and toolshed, finding no one. Hernandez questions if they missed anything during their initial search, and Farrow realizes they may have overlooked something in the bedrooms.

Farrow and Hernandez quickly recheck the upstairs rooms. Hernandez falls to her knees in the guest bedroom, looking under the bed, but finds no one. In the master bedroom, they discover a metal box, like a document locker, on the other side of the bed. The box is open, and two thick rolls of cash are inside, bound with an elastic band. Farrow wonders aloud if the intruder missed this valuable item or if it was overlooked.

Farrow moves to the window, pulls the drapes, and looks out onto the street. He spots a female figure in the distance, limping and walking away at a quick pace. Recognizing the urgency, Farrow calls out to Hernandez, and they decide to pursue the woman. The chapter ends with Farrow and Hernandez ready to chase the limping figure, suspecting her involvement in the break-in.

Amanda’s escape from Frank Quinn’s house is excruciatingly painful, with every step sending her knee into spasm. She had managed to get out of the house with three rolls of cash from the lockbox, but her luck seems to be running out as she hears Detective Hernandez shouting for her to stop. Farrow, moving stiffly due to his back pain, is also in pursuit, but Hernandez is closing in quickly.

Amanda, despite the unbearable pain, tries to run, but her knee buckles, and she falls to the sidewalk. She manages to stand up again, but Hernandez is only fifty feet away. At this critical moment, a black Escalade pulls up beside her. The same man who had been watching Quinn’s house and followed her to the subway emerges, offering her a way out. He introduces himself as Billy Cameron and insists that he can help her.

With no other choice and the police closing in, Amanda hobbles to the car and throws herself into the passenger seat. Billy Cameron, the man in the black Escalade, speeds away, ignoring Amanda’s questions about his identity. He reassures her that she is safe and promises to explain everything once they are out of immediate danger.

Farrow and Hernandez give chase to the limping woman who escaped from Frank Quinn’s house. Farrow, hindered by his back pain, slows to a fast walk, while Hernandez sprints but fails to close the distance. The woman hesitates momentarily, glancing back at the detectives, before climbing into a black SUV that speeds away. Out of breath, Hernandez joins Farrow and admits she didn’t get the license plate. The detectives exchange a look of frustration, knowing they’ve lost their lead.

Ruth steps out of the apartment in Hartford, feeling a sense of freedom and normalcy for the first time since the attack. She admires the park and the surrounding neighborhood, noting the decay and neglect but focusing on the beauty of the day. She texts Scott to confirm she is fine and heads to a nearby supermarket to buy groceries and newspapers, including the New York Post and the New York Times.

While in line at the supermarket, Ruth feels a renewed sense of confidence and normalcy, smiling at the cashier and engaging with her surroundings without fear. She reflects on the changes in her life and her relationship with Scott, realizing how much she has grown and how much she appreciates the simple moments. She considers options for starting a family, including IVF or adoption, and feels hopeful about the future.

Back at the apartment, Ruth puts away the groceries and listens to the news on TV. The report confirms that Patrick Travers, the man she identified as her attacker, was murdered in the Paramount Hotel. The news also reveals that Travers was in Hawaii with Mayor Anthony Toscano and a known mob boss, Jimmy Fellini, at the time of the attack on Ruth. The realization hits Ruth hard; she had pointed out the wrong man, and Scott had killed an innocent person. Her coffee cup slips from her hand, shattering on the floor as the gravity of the situation sinks in.

Scott, who had just come out of the shower, rushes to Ruth’s side, holding her and reassuring her that everything will be okay. He believes the police will treat Travers’s murder as a mob hit and not come looking for them. Ruth, however, is overwhelmed by guilt and the realization of the terrible mistake she has made.

Ruth stands in the kitchen, her face pale and eyes wide with terror. Scott spins her around, his gut churning as he sees the fear and shock in her eyes. She is trembling, and tears form as she opens her mouth to scream. The scream, a violent and agonizing 'Noooooooooooo!', is a sound filled with loss, yearning, and pain. Scott tries to calm her, but Ruth is in a state of hysteria, her mind consumed by the realization that Scott killed the wrong man.

Scott holds Ruth tightly as she wails into his chest, the full force of his actions hitting him again. He had not killed a murderer or a predator; he had killed an innocent man, and all his efforts to protect Ruth were in vain. Overwhelmed by guilt and anger, Scott releases Ruth and begins to punch the kitchen cabinets, breaking one and cutting his knuckles. The physical pain provides a temporary distraction, but he is soon overcome by nausea and vomits at the sink.

Scott tries to rationalize his actions, telling Ruth that the man was probably a bad guy, and that the relief she felt when she believed the attacker was dead was a new lease on life. Ruth, however, is devastated, explaining that the fear has returned stronger than ever. She had believed that the man in the restaurant was the attacker, but now she is unsure and filled with doubt. The TV in the background announces a press briefing on the murder of Patrick Travers, and the police have identified a suspect.

Still reeling from her encounter and the pain in her knee, Amanda sits in the passenger seat as Billy drives through the streets of New York. He reassures her that the police are not following them, but Amanda remains wary, questioning his identity and motives. Billy describes the woman he is looking for, matching the description of Naomi, and confirms that she has betrayed both of them. Despite her skepticism, Amanda feels a connection to Billy’s story, as she too is seeking answers about Naomi’s betrayal and the identity of the man she attacked.

Gripping a knife in her pocket, Amanda remains on guard as she considers Billy’s offer to find a crowded diner where they can talk safely. Billy’s demeanor and the clean, expensive car he drives lend him a veneer of credibility, but Amanda is still cautious. He explains that he, like Amanda, was tricked by the woman they are both seeking and that he wants to find her before she can hurt anyone else. Feeling the need for answers and a sense of shared purpose, Amanda agrees to hear Billy out. They drive to a diner on Second Avenue and Fifty-First Street, where Billy hopes they can have a more secure conversation.

As they approach the diner, Amanda’s breathing stabilizes, but she remains vigilant, keeping a firm grip on the knife. The radio plays a country and western song, providing a calm backdrop to the tense atmosphere in the car. Billy’s offer of a public, crowded place for their conversation provides a measure of reassurance, but Amanda is still processing the events of the past few hours and the new information about Naomi’s deception.

Ruth and Scott watch a press conference about the murder of Patrick Travers, broadcast on TV. Captain Roberts, Detective John Starkey, and Michelle Travers, Patrick’s widow, lead the conference. The detectives detail the crime, including the discovery of Patrick’s body in the Paramount Hotel, and show security camera footage of Scott, now identified as the main suspect. The footage captures Scott from behind and from the front, but his face remains unclear.

Ruth reacts with anger and defiance, stating that she doesn’t feel sympathy for Michelle Travers, despite Scott killing the wrong man. She argues that everyone should suffer as she has, finding some relief in this thought. Scott tries to reason with her, emphasizing that Patrick was not the attacker who hurt her, but Ruth remains unconvinced and bitter. Her headache intensifies, and she feels a searing pain in her head, attributing it to the onset of a migraine.

As the press conference continues, Ruth’s attention is drawn to Dan Puccini, the NYPD media manager. She suddenly recognizes him as the man who attacked her, identified by his blue eyes and the phrase 'Hello, sweetheart.' Her body stiffens, and she points at the screen, shouting, 'That’s him,' confirming her attacker’s identity.

Amanda and Billy enter a retro diner, Amanda still cautious and gripping a knife in her pocket. They sit across from each other, and Billy begins to explain his background and why he believes they are both looking for the same woman. He shares that his wife, Lucille, was murdered two years ago after a failed business venture involving a gambling-addicted partner, Jerry Gould. The police ruled it a professional hit, but Billy suspected Jerry and discovered he had sold the company for a large sum before Lucille's death.

Billy then reveals that he joined an online support group and met a woman named Felicia, whose husband’s killer had been acquitted. They discussed exchanging murders, inspired by the movie 'Strangers on a Train.' Felicia claimed to have killed Jerry and instructed Billy to kill a man named Frank Quinn. However, Billy couldn’t bring himself to do it and realized Felicia had lied about killing Jerry. He has been searching for her ever since, finding a news article about a similar case involving a man named Richard Kowalski and a woman named Deborah Mallory.

Amanda, still skeptical but beginning to trust Billy, shares her own story. She explains that she was conned by a woman named Naomi, who convinced her to kill Frank Quinn. Amanda reveals that she attacked Quinn but couldn’t kill him, and he retaliated, injuring her. Billy and Amanda agree to work together to find Naomi, believing she is the same woman who has manipulated both of them. They decide to share information and resources to stop her from manipulating others into committing murders.

Amanda and Billy shake hands, and Amanda agrees to help Billy. They move closer to the window to look at the laptop together, and Amanda asks Billy to show her everything he has on the other murder cases. Billy agrees, and they begin to collaborate, determined to find and stop Naomi.

Ruth points at the TV screen, her body trembling as she identifies Dan Puccini as her attacker. She insists that Puccini said 'Hello, sweetheart' during the press conference, a phrase that matches the one used by her attacker. Scott, initially skeptical, tries to calm her down, but Ruth’s insistence that Puccini is still out there and coming for her pushes her into a hysterical state. Her fear and desperation drive her to demand that Scott kill Puccini, a request that overwhelms Scott with guilt and the realization that he killed the wrong man.

Scott moves to embrace Ruth, but her anger and fear are too intense. Recognizing that Ruth needs more help than he can provide, Scott decides to take drastic action. His thoughts drift back to a traumatic bullying incident in high school, intensifying his feelings of shame and guilt. He knows he must act to end the torment. Scott dials 911, confesses to the murder of Patrick Travers, and claims to have taken Ruth hostage, assuring the operator that Ruth is innocent and needs help.

After hanging up, Scott faces Ruth, apologizing for his mistakes and expressing his love for her. He then walks to the open window, climbs onto the sill, and looks down at the long drop below. Despite Ruth’s desperate attempts to stop him, Scott closes his eyes, pushes off the ledge, and falls to his death, ending his life and the burden of his guilt.

Amanda and Billy meet at a diner, continuing their collaboration. Billy shares his extensive documentation on Felicia, the woman who manipulated him in a manner similar to how Naomi manipulated Amanda. Amanda reviews the message history between Billy and Felicia, noting the subtle manipulation and the striking similarity to the tactics Naomi used on her. The messages reveal a pattern of exploiting pain and loneliness, guiding the victims down a path of revenge and violence.

Billy provides Amanda with a manila folder containing a hundred pages of information, including an address and phone number for Felicia, though both have been abandoned. The documents also include articles about the murder of Saul Benson and the trial of Richard Kowalski, who blamed a woman named Deborah Mallory for manipulating him into the murder. Amanda verifies the authenticity of the documents and begins to piece together the connections between Felicia and Naomi.

Amanda finds a news clipping of a man in a pale blue suit, initially thinking it was Frank Quinn. Upon closer inspection, Billy identifies the man as Saul Benson, Kowalski’s victim. Intrigued, Amanda performs an image search, which leads her to a news article featuring a woman. Recognizing the woman as Naomi, Amanda and Billy realize they have found a crucial piece of evidence linking Naomi and Felicia to the same pattern of manipulation and murder.

The discovery of Naomi’s identity and her connection to the broader scheme of manipulation and murder solidifies Amanda and Billy’s resolve to stop her. They agree to continue working together, driven by the need to uncover the truth and prevent Naomi from harming more people.

Ruth witnesses Scott’s suicide in a harrowing sequence of events. As he stands by the window, she reaches for him, but he falls, disappearing from view. Ruth leans out, trying to grab his shirt, but it’s too late. She hears the sickening sound of his body hitting the concrete steps below.

Ruth runs out of the apartment, down the stairs, and kneels by Scott’s side, calling his name and whispering that he will be okay. Police officers arrive and lift her away, placing her on the ground. She is in a state of shock, unable to speak or respond to the officers’ questions. The scene is chaotic, with paramedics taking Scott away and Ruth locked in the back of a police car.

At the police precinct, Ruth is given a towel and a cup of coffee. She is still shaking uncontrollably, and the environment is a blur of noise and activity. She sees a man in a cell kicking the doors, and other frightened people scattered around on wooden benches. The TV plays a speech by President George W. Bush, congratulating Americans on the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, creating a stark contrast to Ruth’s devastating reality.

Ruth’s world has been shattered by Scott’s death, and she is left alone, traumatized, and in a state of disbelief. The chapter ends with Ruth in the police station, surrounded by the mundane details of everyday life, which seem surreal in the face of her profound loss.

Amanda and Billy sit together, reading a news article from January 2008 about a murder trial. The article features a picture of a man who bears a striking resemblance to the victims Naomi targeted. It reveals that Ruth Gelman, a former real estate agent, is on trial for the murder of Patrick Travers, whom she mistakenly identified as her attacker, known as Mr. Blue Eyes. The prosecution claims that Ruth, along with her husband Scott, planned and carried out the murder, believing Travers was the man who attacked her.

As they delve deeper into more articles about Ruth Gelman, Amanda and Billy piece together the puzzle. They learn that Ruth was found not guilty by reason of temporary insanity and spent seven years in a hospital before her release. Ruth then began targeting men who resembled her attacker, manipulating vulnerable individuals into killing them. Amanda and Billy realize that Ruth’s actions are driven by trauma and a twisted sense of justice, leading her to manipulate others into avenging her perceived wrongs.

Amanda reflects on her own trauma and the loss of her daughter Jess, killed by Wallace Crone. She shares her story with Billy, who empathizes, revealing his own loss and the manipulation he faced from Felicia. Amanda and Billy agree that Ruth Gelman must be stopped, and Billy offers to help by sending the information they have to his private investigator. Amanda, grateful for Billy’s support, acknowledges that their search for Ruth is just beginning and that time is running out.

Returning home, Amanda feels a mix of exhaustion and determination. She knows it will be hard to sleep, given the new information and the weight of her actions. She reflects on the kindness and toughness in Billy, recognizing that meeting him might be a turning point in her quest for justice.

Ruth drives through Brooklyn in a black Mercedes, the city quiet at this hour. She smokes a cigarette, the smoke curling around her as she reflects on her recent actions. Her hair, now a vibrant red, is a stark contrast to her usual look—a change that took four hours and four hundred dollars. The radio plays softly, reporting that Frank Quinn is still alive but in critical condition. A sense of relief washes over her, reminiscent of the first time she felt this way after Scott killed Patrick Travers, the man she mistakenly identified as her attacker.

At 2 a.m. on early Thanksgiving Day, the precinct is eerily quiet, save for the soft hum of the fluorescent lights and the occasional rustle of papers. Farrow, the lone figure in the robbery homicide office, is sipping cold coffee and poring over the Quinn case files. The night shift is out on the streets, leaving him to grapple with the case's many inconsistencies. Most murders are straightforward, but this one defies explanation, and the motive remains elusive. Farrow is particularly perplexed by the woman who broke into the house and left behind two rolls of cash, suggesting that money was not the driving force.

Hernandez unexpectedly appears in the doorway, surprising Farrow. She should be home preparing paella, and Farrow can't help but think of the unspoken test of her boyfriends meeting him over dinner. Hernandez inquires about his late-night work, and Farrow explains that he took the case from Statler and Waldorf because it gnaws at him. Reluctantly, he hands her a list of tasks, though he admits there isn't much to do until the DNA results return from the lab. Farrow stretches his aching back and checks his watch, anticipating the lab results imminently.

Just as Farrow is about to call it a night, his cell phone rings. He listens intently for about thirty seconds, his expression growing troubled. After ending the call, he decides to go home to rest and take a shower. He informs Hernandez that the lab has returned the DNA results and that he plans to pick up Amanda White. Concerned, Hernandez presses for more details, but Farrow only confirms his intention to return later.

Amanda wakes up on Thanksgiving morning, feeling tired and with an aching knee. She counts the money she stole from Quinn’s house the night before, totaling close to seventy-five thousand dollars. Over a bowl of cereal, she works on her laptop, reviewing articles about the men Ruth Gelman had arranged to be murdered. The sketches and photos of the victims—Travers, Quinn, Benson, and others—show a definite resemblance, suggesting Ruth’s method of selecting targets based on their appearance.

Amanda conducts further searches and uncovers more motiveless murders of men who bear a striking similarity to the others. She identifies six victims, including Dan Puccini, the media relations manager for the NYPD, and Paul Beriano, an Uber driver. The pattern indicates that Ruth’s killings have accelerated since her release from Kirby Forensic Psychiatric Center. Amanda realizes she was one of Ruth’s ‘grim reapers,’ manipulated into killing for her. She feels a mix of fear and revulsion, recognizing the extent of Ruth’s manipulation.

Amanda consults a book on serial killers, learning about the patterns and behaviors of such individuals. She concludes that Ruth fits the profile of a highly organized killer who operates in a pattern of accelerating crisis. This realization deepens her resolve to stop Ruth. Amanda decides to call Billy and heads to the bathroom to dispose of the bloodstained clothes and the second burner phone. However, she is intercepted by Detective Farrow, who is waiting outside her building.

Amanda quickly ducks into a 24-hour laundromat to avoid Farrow. She receives a call from Farrow but lets it go to voicemail, knowing he is there to arrest her. She hides in the laundromat, observing Farrow from a distance. After ten minutes, Farrow is still waiting, confirming that she has run out of time. Amanda realizes she needs to disappear and find Naomi as soon as possible, but she needs to retrieve the money and her laptop from her apartment.

Ruth decides to watch the Thanksgiving Day Parade from a window table at Stella 34 Trattoria, a restaurant in Macy’s on Thirty-Fifth Street. She arrives early, savoring the festive atmosphere and the children’s excitement, which momentarily soothes her troubled mind. Despite the high cost, Ruth finds the experience magical and worth every penny, relishing the spectacle and the wonder on the children’s faces as they cheer for Macy’s Santa Claus.

As the parade concludes, Ruth visits the gift shop and buys a snow globe depicting a family on a snowy hill. Boarding the elevator to leave, she encounters a family: a mother, father, and two children, one dressed as a bumblebee and the other as a fairy princess. The father’s blue eyes trigger a terrifying flashback, and Ruth’s heart races as she associates him with her attacker, Mr. Blue Eyes. The elevator’s noise and the crunch of glass underfoot intensify her panic, and she drops the snow globe, which shatters on the floor.

Ruth’s hallucination deepens as she sees the family’s reflections in the broken glass, all of them staring at her with cold, menacing smiles and repeating the phrase 'Hello, sweetheart.' The elevator stops, and the family exits, leaving Ruth on the floor, trembling. She follows them discreetly to their building, George Towers, and watches them enter apartment 1003. The family’s recognition and taunting of her intensify Ruth’s determination to eliminate Mr. Blue Eyes and his family. She resolves to act alone to achieve her revenge, planning to kill the Grangers, starting with the father, Mr. Blue Eyes.

Amanda listens to a voicemail from Farrow, instructing her to come to the precinct urgently. She watches as Farrow drives away, but her relief is short-lived; she realizes he might return with a warrant. Quickly, Amanda disposes of the bloodstained clothes and the second burner phone in a dumpster, then returns to her apartment to pack essentials, including her laptop, money, Sparkles the unicorn, and Luis’s wedding ring.

Just as Amanda is about to leave, a knock on the door startles her. Peering through the peephole, she sees a man in a pale brown suit who identifies himself as a detective and demands she open the door. Bracing herself for the worst, Amanda is surprised when the man hands her a brown envelope containing Crone’s lawsuit papers, served on Thanksgiving morning. A mix of relief and anger washes over her as she realizes the legal battle is far from over.

Determined to leave her apartment, Amanda calls Billy from a pay phone, explaining her situation and asking for a place to stay. Billy offers to let her stay with him and informs her that his private investigator has found no trace of Ruth Gelman, suggesting she is using fake identities to avoid detection. They agree to meet with Dr. Marin, Ruth’s former therapist at Kirby, in the morning, hoping to gather more information about Ruth’s whereabouts and activities.

Farrow returns to the precinct after leaving Amanda’s building, finding the Thanksgiving Day shift relatively quiet. He reflects on the unsolved cases that weigh heavily on him, particularly the case of Mr. Blue Eyes, who has not resurfaced since the attack on Ruth Gelman over ten years ago. Farrow wonders if the killings have stopped or if he is simply missing the connections to the earlier murders. Maintaining a standing order for dispatchers to notify him and Hernandez about any home invasion homicides in Manhattan, he suspects they might be related to Mr. Blue Eyes. Despite Hernandez’s complaints, Farrow persists, driven by his tenacity and the need to close cases. He spends the remainder of his shift reviewing reports and statements, then goes home, eats a turkey club, and watches a game on TV before going to bed.

Just after four a.m., Farrow stirs from a restless sleep, his back throbbing with pain. He takes Oxycontin and brews a pot of coffee, reflecting on the emotional toll of his job and the connection he feels to the victims and their families. He recalls the night he found Jess’s body, which has left an indelible mark on him. Determined to help Amanda, who is facing more pain and trouble, he calls Hernandez to discuss the case. Hernandez informs him that the burner phone found in the toolshed was purchased by a single buyer, and they continue to investigate Quinn’s computer.

Farrow tries calling Amanda again but gets no response. He reflects on their relationship, noting how she has kept fighting despite her immense losses. He is deeply concerned about the new information from the forensics team and feels a strong sense of duty to be there for Amanda, knowing she will need support.

Amanda wakes up in Billy’s spare room in his house in Queens, feeling a sense of temporary respite. The floral wallpaper, lavender-scented pillow, and the presence of Jess’s toy unicorn on the pillow beside her provide a moment of comfort. She showers, dresses, and heads downstairs, where the smell of bacon and the sound of Dolly Parton’s music fill the air. Billy, wearing a cooking apron, greets her with a warm breakfast, and the two share a meal, with Billy appearing more animated and lifted by Amanda’s presence.

After breakfast, Amanda and Billy visit Dr. Marin at the Kirby Forensic Psychiatric Center. Amanda, determined to get Dr. Marin’s help, explains that Ruth Gelman had tried to manipulate them into committing murder and that she believes Ruth is responsible for multiple killings. Dr. Marin initially refuses to breach patient confidentiality, but Amanda’s passionate plea about the accelerating nature of Ruth’s killings and the potential danger she poses convinces him to reconsider. Dr. Marin reveals that Ruth had a visitor named Jack shortly before her release, who offered to pay for a lost prescription pad. This information suggests that Jack might have helped Ruth obtain false identities.

Dr. Marin agrees to contact Jack and ask him to speak with Amanda and Billy. On the drive back to Manhattan, Amanda and Billy listen to Dolly Parton’s music, and Amanda feels a brief moment of contentment. Billy’s kindness and support provide her with a sense of companionship and hope. Amanda’s phone rings, and a man, presumably Jack, instructs her to call him from a pay phone within ten minutes. They locate a pay phone, and Amanda calls Jack, who confirms that he helped Ruth obtain several false identities and a gun for protection. Jack reads out the names and dates of birth associated with the fake IDs, and Amanda writes them down.

Billy contacts his private investigator to cross-reference the information with databases and credit checks. They decide to wait for the investigator’s findings at a nearby pizza parlor. The chapter ends with a sense of cautious optimism, as Amanda and Billy prepare to use the new information to track down Ruth and prevent her from causing more harm.

Ruth is under immense pressure, her usual coping mechanisms—the tapping, breathing, and metronome—no longer providing the relief she desperately needs. The only solution she can see is to eliminate the Grangers, a family she believes is connected to her attacker, Mr. Blue Eyes. She meticulously plans her next move, deciding to deliver a gourmet fruit-and-cheese basket to the Grangers’ apartment as a pretext to gain entry and carry out her plan.

Ruth prepares for the mission by dressing in dark clothing and checking the gun Jack had provided her. She examines the weapon, ensuring it is loaded and ready to use. The act of planning and preparing for the kill offers a temporary distraction from her inner turmoil, silencing the cacophony of voices in her mind. A surge of exhilaration and power courses through her, a sensation she has never experienced before.

Feeling a renewed sense of purpose and control, Ruth gathers her car keys and the gift basket. She steps out of her apartment, her resolve unwavering. The chapter ends with Ruth slamming the door behind her, ready to confront the Grangers and exact her revenge.

Amanda and Billy spend the evening at a pizza parlor, where Billy shares a personal story about his late wife, Lucille, and her love for Dolly Parton's music. The music, which he never enjoyed before, now comforts him as it reminds him of Lucille. Amanda, feeling a rare moment of openness, talks about her daughter Jess and her love for unicorns, particularly a white, fluffy unicorn named Sparkles, which she could not sleep without. Amanda also reflects on the pain of losing Jess and Luis, and the relief she felt when she thought Crone was dead, comparing it to a cancer being cut out of her.

Billy’s phone rings, interrupting their conversation. He takes the call and makes notes on his newspaper, circling one of the names Amanda had written down. The caller informs Billy that one of the fake IDs Ruth obtained had a recent credit check, which was for renting an apartment in Brooklyn. The caller also provides information about a black Mercedes S-Class registered to a different ID and address, but the rental in Brooklyn is the most recent and fits the timeline of Ruth’s movements after the attack on Quinn.

Amanda and Billy are both energized by this new lead. They decide to head to Brooklyn to investigate the apartment, hoping it will lead them to Ruth. The chapter ends with Amanda and Billy determined to find Ruth and stop her from causing more harm.

Ruth parks the Mercedes outside her building, placing the gourmet fruit-and-cheese basket in the back seat before driving to George Towers. She keeps to the speed limit, ensuring she is not pulled over, and finds a parking spot close to the building’s entrance. Her plan is to use the basket as a pretext to gain entry to the Grangers’ apartment and carry out her intended murder. Reflecting on her past, Ruth notes that finding the right accomplice has always been challenging, but now she is taking matters into her own hands, feeling a surge of power and control.

In the lobby of George Towers, a new, overweight concierge named Raymond greets her. When Ruth insists on delivering the basket personally, Raymond threatens to call Mr. Granger. Ruth places the basket on the desk and, while Raymond is distracted, strikes him on the head with the butt of her gun. She continues to hit him until he slumps over the desk, then uses the silk ribbon from the basket to strangle him. Raymond collapses to the floor, and Ruth quickly cleans up, ensuring no evidence is left behind.

Ruth takes the stairs to the tenth floor, carrying the basket. As she climbs, a gentle, kindly voice in her head whispers 'Stop. Stop. Stop.' Recognizing the voice as Scott’s, she mentally silences him by imagining draping a cloth over a box. When she reaches the tenth floor, the voices in her head fall silent, and she draws her gun, preparing to confront the Grangers. The chapter ends with Ruth standing outside apartment 1003, ready to execute her plan.

Billy and Amanda exit the restaurant and climb into Billy’s car. Billy dials Dr. Marin, informing him that they have tracked Ruth to a location in Brooklyn and that they need NYPD accompaniment to ensure Ruth’s official readmission to Kirby. Amanda, initially wary of involving the police, insists on joining Billy, driven by a resolve to make Ruth’s role in her actions known to the authorities.

Billy drives aggressively, swerving through traffic as Amanda inputs the address into the GPS. The route confirms they will arrive just before eight o’clock. Amanda, burdened by the gravity of her situation, recognizes this as her last chance to confront Ruth and to explain her actions to Detective Farrow. She is determined to reveal the full extent of her involvement and the manipulation she endured.

As they drive, Billy and Amanda discuss the potential dangers of facing Ruth, who they suspect is planning another attack. Billy hopes Dr. Marin will recognize Ruth’s condition and take the necessary steps. Despite her fear, Amanda remains steadfast, knowing that this confrontation is essential to clearing her name and seeking justice.

Detective Andrew Farrow and Detective Karen Hernandez stand outside a private room at Mount Sinai Hospital, watching as the nurses remove medical equipment from the body of Frank Quinn, who has just died. Hernandez comments that the case is now officially a homicide, and Farrow acknowledges the change in status. They had received a call from the hospital about Quinn’s deteriorating condition, and despite a slim chance of waking, he never regained consciousness. Hernandez inquires if Farrow has managed to contact Amanda White, and Farrow admits he hasn’t yet. Hernandez reminds him of the urgency, especially given the lab results they received. Farrow’s phone vibrates, and he answers a call from Dr. Marin, who he hasn’t spoken to in a long time. Dr. Marin explains that he has received concerning information about Ruth Gelman, suggesting she may be experiencing a relapse or breakdown with paranoid hallucinations similar to those she had at Kirby. Dr. Marin informs Farrow that he is on his way to an address in Brooklyn and may need to commit Ruth involuntarily. He requests Farrow’s assistance, noting that Ruth trusts him and that having a familiar face could be beneficial. Farrow agrees to help and asks for the address, indicating his readiness to assist in the situation.

Amanda and Billy arrive at the address in Brooklyn Heights just before eight o'clock, spotting a woman carrying a gift basket and entering a black Mercedes. Billy confirms the license plate matches the one they have, and they follow the car into Manhattan. After a tense twenty-minute chase, the car pulls over, and Ruth enters a building with the gift basket. Billy calls Dr. Marin to update him on their location and to inform him that they are following Ruth.

Upon arriving at the building, Amanda and Billy find the lobby empty. Billy discovers the doorman, who has been attacked with a red ribbon around his neck. After freeing the doorman, Billy learns that Ruth has gone up to the tenth floor. He insists that Amanda stay behind to wait for Dr. Marin and the police, while he goes up to confront Ruth. Amanda, though reluctant, agrees to call for help and stay with the doorman.

Farrow and Hernandez arrive at the scene, and Amanda explains the situation. Farrow, who has been trying to reach Amanda, updates her on Wallace Crone, who was recently arrested on an anonymous tip for talking to children outside a school. Amanda realizes that Ruth had orchestrated this to get Crone off the street and to manipulate her into thinking Crone was dead. As Farrow and Dr. Marin head up the stairs, a loud gunshot rings out, confirming the urgency of the situation.

Ruth approaches the door of apartment 1003, but it is locked. She places the gift basket on the floor and is about to knock when she hears the elevator approaching. Deciding to wait, she doesn't want to be seen entering the Grangers’ apartment. As the elevator reaches her floor, Ruth sees a man inside, partially obscured by the elevator gate. The man introduces himself as Billy, and Ruth recognizes his voice from her online interactions as one of her targets from the bereavement forum.

Ruth is initially confused but then realizes the man’s true identity when he removes his contact lenses, revealing blue eyes. She recognizes him as Mr. Blue Eyes, the man who attacked her years ago. Overwhelmed with fear and rage, Ruth pulls out her gun and points it at him, but he yanks the elevator gate open, disarming her. The gun fires, hitting the panel next to him. Ruth backs away, unable to breathe or scream, as Mr. Blue Eyes approaches her, revealing that he has been tracking her for a long time.

Mr. Blue Eyes explains that he had to leave New York after her attack and continued his work elsewhere, but he could not tolerate being hunted. He had followed her actions, including the murder of Patrick Travers and the other men who resembled him. He accuses Ruth of enjoying the killings and not just seeking revenge. As he continues to advance, Ruth hears footsteps and voices on the stairs, including Dr. Marin and Detective Farrow. Dr. Marin injects her with a sedative, and she feels herself slipping into darkness, screaming as she falls.

Two months after the events at the Grangers' apartment, Amanda steps out of her building’s lobby, heading to her new job at a gallery. She notices a letter in her mailbox, addressed only to her, and pockets it before heading out into the cold January morning. As she steps onto the icy sidewalk, she slips and is caught by Detective Farrow, who was on his way to see her. Farrow reveals that Crone has been found dead, tortured and thrown into a dumpster. Amanda learns that Billy’s letter reveals the truth about his past and his role in finding Ruth.