I was disappointed, but Marcus reminded me that progress rarely sounded like a door slamming.

Sometimes it sounded like people finally agreeing about the meaning of one page.

The police investigation continued separately.

I had given my statement, medical documentation, and photographs.

An investigator contacted me for clarification about the timeline, and I answered honestly.

I didn’t demand a particular result.

I wanted a truthful record and the ability to live without fear.

One afternoon, Daniel appeared outside my new building.