Chapter 82

Chapter 82 of We Solve Murders begins with Bonnie’s journey to Heathrow Airport, a trip that, despite its initial smoothness, brings a blend of relief and apprehension. As she navigates the early morning rush, Bonnie is thankful for her neighbor’s husband, who helps her carry her leather holdall while she manages her rolling suitcase. Arriving early gives her a sense of preparedness, even though the daunting check-in lines and security procedures still lie ahead. The emotional weight of the goodbyes from her family is still fresh in her mind, particularly her mother’s tearful farewell and her plea for Bonnie to return safely. This mixture of excitement and sadness makes Bonnie reflect on the emotional connections she’s leaving behind, while also feeling the thrill of venturing off into the unknown. As she approaches the terminal, there’s a sense of nervous anticipation, amplified by the uncertainty of what awaits her in São Paulo, but also the sense of hope that this trip will bring new opportunities.

While waiting in line for check-in, Bonnie’s thoughts become more focused on the weight of the bag she’s carrying. What initially felt like a manageable load now seems unexpectedly heavy, and her mind starts to spiral with concerns about what might be inside. For a brief moment, the worst-case scenario crosses her mind—what if there’s something dangerous hidden in the bag, perhaps even a bomb? The thought sends a shiver down her spine, though she quickly dismisses it as an overreaction. Despite calming herself, Bonnie can’t shake the anxiety, leading her to consider emailing Felicity about her situation to ease her mind. She drafts the message, describing the mysterious locked bag and her thoughts about it, but then hesitates. The fear of sounding overly dramatic or embarrassing herself in front of Felicity and the team holds her back, leaving her to wrestle with the thoughts alone, without sharing them with anyone else. This internal struggle highlights her reluctance to burden others with her anxieties, even if they’re entirely unwarranted.

Upon reaching the check-in counter, Bonnie is greeted by a friendly clerk, who politely inquires about her travel plans. With newfound confidence, Bonnie responds proudly that she is traveling to São Paulo on business, a statement that brings a brief sense of accomplishment. However, her momentary pride is interrupted when the clerk informs her that she’s arrived too early and that her check-in time isn’t until the afternoon. Embarrassed by her eagerness, Bonnie decides to make the most of the situation by waiting at the airport café. Although it’s an unnecessary expense, she reminds herself that it’s better to be overly prepared than caught off guard. The brief inconvenience gives her time to reflect on the importance of managing her emotions and expectations in unfamiliar settings. Even though she feels a little foolish for arriving too early, Bonnie maintains an optimistic outlook and recognizes that the experience, though frustrating, is an inevitable part of traveling. Her ability to roll with the minor setbacks reflects her resilience and determination to continue moving forward, despite the uncertainties.

The chapter concludes with Bonnie’s internal monologue, a mix of humorous self-doubt and anticipation for the future. As she reflects on her actions, Bonnie reveals her personality—a blend of ambition and anxiety, where small setbacks take on outsized significance, yet they never deter her from pursuing her goals. The narrative offers a deep dive into her thoughts, showcasing how she handles the mundane moments of life while trying to navigate the larger challenges ahead. In the moments leading up to her departure, Bonnie’s fears and doubts mirror the experiences of anyone stepping into the unknown, balancing the excitement of new opportunities with the natural nervousness of the journey. The light-hearted nature of her reflections offers a sense of relatability, as readers are given insight into her character, which is complex and multifaceted. Her aspirations and worries are universally human, showing how even the smallest interactions, like waiting in line or dealing with unexpected situations, shape the path of one’s journey. This chapter illustrates not only the logistical challenges of travel but also the emotional and mental hurdles that accompany big life changes.