Chapter 25

Chapter 25 of We Solve Murders sees Steve facing the unsettling sight of a bloodied BMW, riddled with bullet holes. His thoughts are quickly interrupted by a phone call from Amy, who reveals she has distressing news of her own. Steve, already shaken by the disturbing scene he just witnessed, expresses his concern, sharing his belief that Jeff Nolan might be dead. He describes the bloodied car he saw at Hollands Wood, a harrowing image with no body in sight. Amy, trying to remain hopeful, suggests that as long as no body is found, there is still a chance Jeff might be alive. As they continue their conversation, Amy recalls Jeff’s earlier warning of impending danger, adding to the growing tension surrounding them.

While Steve and Amy discuss their respective fears, Amy’s voice becomes faintly muffled, and a third voice is heard in the background. Steve quickly identifies it as Rosie D’Antonio, further confirming the urgency of the situation. Amy explains that she feels increasingly threatened, mentioning an ex-Navy SEAL and a potentially corrupt local cop as the individuals who are targeting her. Despite Steve’s reluctance to travel, preferring to assist from England, Amy firmly insists that her safety is at risk and that she desperately needs his help. Her words are heavy with urgency, and she stresses that multiple murders are involved, making the situation all the more critical. Steve, still reeling from the weight of his current circumstances, feels torn between his desire to help and his hesitation to engage in such a high-stakes scenario.

Amy, sensing Steve’s hesitation, offers him a way to get involved immediately, explaining that a private jet is waiting for him in Farnborough, with Rosie ready to assist. This offer compels Steve to consider the gravity of the situation, but it also brings to mind what his late wife, Debbie, might have advised him to do. He grapples with his conflicting emotions, recalling how his instinct to help is counterbalanced by the fear of the unknown, especially given the dangers lurking in South Carolina. He imagines alligators in the swamps and the uncertain toll this will take on his personal life, adding layers of complexity to his decision. Despite these fears, the urgency in Amy’s voice stirs something in Steve, a flicker of excitement that contrasts with the dread he feels. He realizes that he must step into the role of an investigator, despite the risks involved.

As the conversation continues, Amy stresses the importance of finding someone they both trust to investigate the murders and help untangle the web of lies and danger. She reassures Steve that, together, they can navigate the chaos, and her words fuel the bond they share in this high-stakes situation. The moment marks a significant turning point for Steve, as he recognizes the need to take action rather than remain passive. With each passing minute, the weight of the situation presses harder on him, but Amy’s persistence and the sense of responsibility they share push him toward involvement. This pivotal realization sets Steve on a new course—one that leads him deeper into the heart of the unfolding mystery, with no clear path ahead, only the promise of uncovering the truth.

The chapter beautifully captures the tension, urgency, and emotional turmoil faced by Steve as he decides whether to jump into the chaos of the investigation. His relationship with Amy and the trust they’ve built serve as the emotional foundation for the choices he faces. It’s not just a case of solving murders; it’s about navigating personal fears, relationships, and moral dilemmas. This chapter also underscores how the unexpected can push individuals toward uncharted territories, challenging them to rise to the occasion and confront their worst fears in pursuit of justice.