Thomas was very surprised when Carrie informed him that the charges against him would be dismissed. He hugged her and thanked her several times. She smiled and informed him to stay in touch, especially if Detective McConnell harassed him. Thomas promised her he would.
* * *
Much to his chagrin, McConnell went to inform Thomas. “All right, Thomas, you’re free to go.”
“I know. My attorney informed me. She’s something, isn’t she?”
McConnell nodded. “Yeah, she’s something.” He started to turn and leave, but added, “Oh, by the way, if I were you, I’d watch my back.”
“What do you mean by that?” Thomas asked.
McConnell didn’t reply. He just left the room.
* * *
Thomas entered his apartment and closed the door. He sat down on the sofa and looked at the ceiling. He was tired. His body needed sleep. Although he had tried to follow Carrie’s advice after her first visit, he had been too afraid to sleep. He had considered various scenarios―from being sent to prison for life to being put to death. Now, with his eyes closed, he realized the nightmare was over. Carrie, as she had promised, had won. No court appearance. No trial. Thomas beamed. He thought about calling his mother, letting her know the good news, but realized he could call after he had gotten some sleep. Instead of trying to get up and going to his bed, he lay down on the sofa and closed his eyes.