Chapter 38

After reviewing Redding’s interview tapes, Lia identifies only one lie: Redding feigned disinterest in Emerson Cole’s case, implying he lacked details from his protégé. Cassie presses for what else was learned, and Michael outlines Redding’s flat affect and fixation on Dean.

A third tape shows Sterling confronting Redding. She disarms him by revealing her branded scar and declares the brand was Dean’s initial, inflicted at her insistence to convince Redding Dean had turned. The revelation enrages Redding, who threatens Sterling before she leaves, reclaiming control of their dynamic.

Shaken, the team pivots to analysis. In the basement, Sloane’s geographic profiling shows a tight overlap among the murder sites centering near the prison holding Redding, reinforcing him as the focal point but frustrating Sloane’s need for actionable precision.

Briggs and Dean return with updates: Briggs announces DNA from Trina Simms’s fingernails, though Dean notes it’s useless without a suspect. Dean reports Redding refused to talk, likely punishing Dean after Sterling exposed his betrayal, and hinting he might talk “tomorrow,” suggesting another imminent murder for leverage.

Pressed, Briggs relays Redding’s parting condition. Dean, visibly strained, confirms Redding said, “Next time, bring the girl,” making Cassie the bait for any future interview and escalating the personal stakes.