Matthew Reynolds turned himself into the perfect cop. He purchased the perfect uniform. Worked for years to get his body in perfect shape. Practiced his cop's stare for hours in front of a mirror to master the perfect mix of intimidation and understanding. He's finally ready for his first night on the streets. Matthew Reynolds never applied to the police academy. He knew he wouldn't qualify. He's not about to let a little thing like that stop him. He'll do anything to protect and serve. Anything at all. He has no other choice. Annie Reed, the award-winning author of PRETTY LITTLE HORSES, returns with a chilling tale of obsession and atonement that readers will remember long after the story is over. "I've been a fan of Annie Reed's short stories for a long time." —Marcelle Dubé, author of THE SHOELESS KID