Page 76 of Jep

Jade’s head was dipped, but her eyes looked out from under her brow when they entered and tracked Em as she carefully pulled the chair out and sat.

Em looked back at Pearce—who was standing in the corner clasping his hands in front of him—and nodded.

It was hard to look her sister in the eye, but she managed. “Are you hungry or thirsty?” Em said.

The chain from Jade’s cuffs rattled as she lifted her hands, pulled a chunk of blonde hair from her ponytail, and twisted it around her finger.

They didn’t share much in the way of looks. Jade was much more their father. She had his strong jaw and striking greeneyes. But they both had their mom’s small, straight nose and blonde hair.

“I’ve already eaten,” Jade said. “It’s nice to see you, Emmy. You didn’t look too good at the park.”

“I’m sorry things are like this.”

“Are you? I thought maybe you were enjoying yourself. You look smug.”

“No, I don’t.”

“Did they send you in here cause they thought you’d get me to talk?”

“I was hoping I could help you.”

“You got keys for my cuffs? That would help.”

“I want to help you not get put away for the rest of your life.”

“What difference does that make to you?”

“You’re my sister.”

“We’d see each other as often.”

Jade had always been cool and collected. Her movements measured and precise. Even now, she kept her voice steady. But she carried a sadness in her eyes Em couldn’t remember.

“What happened to you?” Em said.

“So many things. I’ve lived two lifetimes while you’ve been stuck in this stuffy building. Congratulations, by the way. I didn’t know you’d gotten a job with the feds.”

Jade was trying to put her on the back foot like she always did. Em had to get answers from her without letting it become personal.

“When did you get back to America?” Em said. “I thought you were in Cambodia.”

“I was.”

“Is that where you were convinced that killing innocent people was a good thing?”

“So youarehere to get me to talk. Since when have I ever been swayed by you?”

“Never. But if you don’t cooperate, I can’t help you.”

“You always did like to pretend you cared about me.”

“You don’t think I do? You’re the one?—”

“I think we’re done here.”

“You’ll go to prison for a long time. Is that what you want?”

“Don’t know. I’ve never been. Maybe I’d like it.”

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