Page 35 of Line of Sight

“Unless the killer knows.”

“Then we’d better make sure we get the chance to ask him.”

Dan had a growing list of questions. Top of the list was easy.

Just how many people have you killed that the police don’t even know about?

Chapter Twenty-Four

Friday, December 14, 2018.

07:15 a.m.

AFTER THREEdays of keeping tabs on Sean Nichols, I was ready to make my move. I followed his car at a discreet distance, hanging back far enough that he wouldn’t spot me in his rearview mirror. Not that I would be noticed; despite the early hour, there was already a lot of traffic.

As soon as Sean headed over the Boston University Bridge, I knew his destination—the BU Boathouse. Another creature of habit.

He made it so easy.

Every morning just after sunrise, he rowed on the Charles River, usually for an hour, before heading into work at the hotel. No wonder he looked so fit, almost as fit as me.

But not quite. I was leaner. Probably faster too.

I parked the car in the lot across from Memorial Drive and hurried over to catch him before he set off. I strolled toward him, smiling.

“Hey.”

Sean glanced up as he closed the trunk. His eyes widened. “Oh my God. What areyoudoing here?”

I didn’t even miss a beat, the lie falling from my lips.

“I’m thinking of taking up rowing. Maybe even take some classes. I came here to discuss it with someone, but I never expected to find a familiar face.” I paused. “Doyourow a lot?”

Sean smiled. “Every day. This is my cardio. And we call this crewing, not rowing.”

I gazed into the river, biting my lip. “To be honest, I’m doing this to get over my fear of water. Is it a safe hobby? Do you ever fall in?”

Sean laughed. “No, but that’s what life jackets are for.” He cocked his head. “Have you even been in a boat?”

“I try to avoid it.”

“Then walk with me.”

We strolled along the bank to where a boat was tied up. I gazed at it with what I hoped was concern. “This seems awful slim.”

“Well, why don’t you get in?” he suggested. “I’ll take you out on the river.”

I blinked. “Seriously?”

“Sure, why not? At least then you’ll know if you want to take it up. I usually head toward Watertown then turn around. It’s easier on the way back because we move with the tide.”

I pretended to think about it. “Okay, why not?”

Sean smiled. “Great. And after, you can come back to the hotel, and we can have some coffee and a chat. I didn’t really get the chance to talk to so many people at the ball. I was too busy running around like a headless chicken trying to organize everything.”

“You said something about a life jacket.” I peered into the boat. “You got a spare one in there? Because I don’t see one.”

Sean laughed. “I’m a very careful rower. You’ll be safe.”