BEMINEFOREVERANABSOLUTELYNAIL-BITINGCRIMETHRILLERWITHAHEART-STOPPINGTWISTD.K.HOODBOOKSBYD.K.HOODDetectivesKaneandAltonSeries
Don’tTellASoul
BringMeFlowers
FollowMeHome
TheCryingSeason
WhereAngelsFear
WhisperintheNight
BreaktheSilence
HerBrokenWings
HerShallowGrave
PromisesintheDark
BeMineForever
AVAILABLEINAUDIO
Don’tTellASoul(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
BringMeFlowers(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
FollowMeHome(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
TheCryingSeason(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
WhereAngelsFear(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
WhisperintheNight(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
BreaktheSilence(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
HerBrokenWings(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
HerShallowGrave(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
PromisesintheDark(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
CONTENTSPrologueChapter1Chapter2Chapter3Chapter4Chapter5Chapter6Chapter7Chapter8Chapter9Chapter10Chapter11Chapter12Chapter13Chapter14Chapter15Chapter16Chapter17Chapter18Chapter19Chapter20Chapter21Chapter22Chapter23Chapter24Chapter25Chapter26Chapter27Chapter28Chapter29Chapter30Chapter31Chapter32Chapter33Chapter34Chapter35Chapter36Chapter37Chapter38Chapter39Chapter40Chapter41Chapter42Chapter43Chapter44Chapter45Chapter46Chapter47Chapter48Chapter49Chapter50Chapter51Chapter52Chapter53Chapter54Chapter55Chapter56Chapter57Chapter58Chapter59EpilogueHearMorefromD.K.HoodBooksbyD.K.HoodALetterfromD.K.HoodDon’tTellaSoulBringMeFlowersFollowMeHomeTheCryingSeasonWhereAngelsFearWhisperintheNightBreaktheSilenceHerBrokenWingsHerShallowGravePromisesintheDarkAcknowledgments*Thisbookisdedicatedtoallthepeoplewhoworktirelesslythroughtroubledtimestokeepussafe.
Ithankyou.
PROLOGUEBLACKROCKFALLS
Saturday
FeargrippedLaurieTurnerinarushofpanic,andwrappinghercoataroundher,shehastenedherstepalongStantonRoad.Nightdroppedlikeacurtain,plungingherintodarknessinthemiddleofnowhere.Astormrumbledinthedistanceandthefirstsplashesofrainbrushedhercheeks.Asthunderrolledacrossthemidnightsky,theforest,sobeautifulduringtheday,hadbecomeathreateningmenace.Withintheintermittentflashesoflightning,shadowsmovedthroughthetreeslikefacelessmeninlongblackcoats.
Shedashedonintothenightstumblingontheunevensidewalk.Thecut-throughtoRavensWaywasonlyafewmoreyardsaway.Asthegroundshookandlightningzig-zaggedthesky,sheglancedoveroneshoulderattheemptystreet.Notasoulwasoutinthestorm,notasinglevehiclerodetheblacktop.Butwasshealone?Consumedbythecreepysecondsensethatsomeonewasbehindher,sheturnedintothedarkalleywayandhustledalong.Witheachstep,treebranchesreachedoutwithlongwitch-likefingerstodragherintothemurkydepths.Anunfamiliarnoisecameclosebyandshestoppedmid-stridetolistenbuttheonlysoundcamefromthewindrushingdownthealleyway.Agustwhippedupthefallleavesandtheyswirledaroundher,mixedwithtwigsanddirt.
Ahead,shemadeoutthedimglowofstreetlightsandhurriedon.Panichadherbythethroatasfootstepssoundedonthegravel.Wassomeonebehindher,hiddeninthedark?Heartpounding,shetookoffatarun,burstontothesidewalk,andheadedinthedirectionofherhome.Sheslowedatthecornerandglancedbehindheroncemoreattheemptyroad.Assheturnedback,theheadlightsofavehicleblindedherasitroundedthecornerandslowedbesideher.Nervesatbreakingpoint,shegraspedherbackpacktouseasaweaponandthensighedwithreliefatthesightofafamiliarface.
“Wannaride?”
Lookingallaround,shefumbledwiththedoorhandleandthenclimbedinside.“I’msuregladtoseeyou.Mycarwouldn’tstartandIdroppedmyphonesoIhadtowalk.”Shefastenedherseatbeltandleanedback,closinghereyes.“It’skindaspookytonightwiththestormandall.”
“Uh-huh.”Heturnedupatuneontheradioandacceleratedatspeed.
Asheflewpastherturn,andheadedbacktoStanton,sheswallowedhard.Wherewashetakingher?Uneasecrawledupherspine.“IliveoutofRavensWay.”
“Uh-huh.”Hiseyesremainedfixedontheroad.“Isawadeerintheforestawaysback,Iwannagoseeifit’sdead.”Hestoppedthevehicleandpointedintothetrees.“Overthere.”
Asthunderrolledandrainsplatteredthewindshield,sheturnedtostareintothedarkforest.“Ican’tseeanything.”
“Surprise.”Asingsongvoicecamefromthebackseat.
Thenextinstant,abandslidaroundLaurie’sneckandtightenedwithforce,draggingherupandbackintheseat.Pinnedbytheseatbeltandhelpless,Lauriegrabbedatherthroat,andfightingforonepreciousbreathofair,openedhermouthinasilentscream.Awadofclothhithertongueandfilledhermouthwitharancidtasteandthensomeonedraggedherhandsaway;shecouldn’tfight.
Heartbursting,painshotthroughherheadandashersightmovedinandoutoffocus,sheheardaderangedgiggle.Asthenextflashoflightningfilledtheinterior,shestaredintothecontortedgrinningfaceofpureevil.
ONE
Sunday
“He’sperfect—maybetooperfect.”SheriffJennaAltonhadbeenscrollingthroughtheapplicationsforanewdeputyandhadfinallyfoundsomeonesuitable.“Well,Iaskedyoualltohelpmefindasuitabledeputyandoutofthesixapplicants,thisonesurelooksinteresting.WhofoundZacRio?”
“Iaskedhimtoapply.”ShaneWolfesmiledather.“I’mgladhedid.”
JennaliftedhergazetohergoodfriendandBlackRockFallsMedicalExaminer,ShaneWolfe.“Howdidyoufindhim?”
Sheeyedherfriendacrosstheoutdoortableshe’dsetupforaSundaycookoutwithherfriends.Itwasabeautifulfalldayandthey’dspentarelaxingtimeenjoyingeachother’scompany.Dr.ShaneWolfewasamanwearingmanyhats.AshandlerforDeputyDaveKaneanoffthegridspecialforcessniper,hehadcontactsthatwenttotheOvalOffice.TheproudTexan,whoresembledaVikingmarauder,wasawidowerfatherofthreegirls.HisdaughtersandhisroleofmedicalexamineroverthreecountiesinMontanakepthimbusy.
“Well,itwasJulie.”Wolfewasreferringtohisdaughter.“ShemetacoupleofnewkidsattheschoolwhomentionedtheirbrotherwasaLAPDdetective.He’sbeenworkingasateacher’saideatthehighschool.Hardlyafittingoccupationforamanwithhisskillset.Icheckedhimout,introducedmyself,andaskedhimifhe’dbeinterestedinapplying.”Wolfesmiledatherandsippedhisbeer.“He’dfitinyourteamjustfineandyouhavethatbighousewithseparateaccommodationforahousekeeperornannysittingempty.”
Jennapeeredattheimageoftheyoungman,ZacRio:twenty-five,six-three,darkcurlyhairandwithskillsfarbeyondwhatsherequiredinadeputy.Sheshookherhead.“I’mnotsure.Hehasatonofdegrees.Howdidhedoallthatbytwenty-five?”ShehandedtheiPadtoDaveKane,hersecondincommandandclosefriend.“Whatdoyouthink,Dave?Hesoundstoogoodtobetrueandhe’soverqualifiedforthejob.WhywouldsomeonelikethatwanttoliveinBlackRockFalls?”
“Thebackgroundcheckonhimrevealedafewmoredetails.”Kaneshrugged.“He’sthegenuinearticle.Maybehewantstoresthismind.Ican’timaginewhatitwouldbeliketohaveamemorylikehisorhisIQ.Hewouldhavebeenachildprodigyifsomeonehadrecognizedhisintelligence.Hefinishedalawdegreebutdidn’tsitthebarexambecauseofproblemsathomebutbythattimehehadafewotherdegreesunderhisbelt.HejoinedtheLAPDandmadedetectivebutafterhisparentsdiedinaplanecrash,thingswentdownhillfastfamilywise.So,hedecidedtocareforthesixteen-year-oldtwins,oneofeachbythenamesofCade,andPiper.Theywereprettywildandheneededtogetthemsettledinadifferentenvironment.”HescratchedhischeekandthenmetJenna’seyes.“Acontenderformyjob,huh?He’salsoasharpshooter.”
“Never.”Jennalaughed.“Hishobbiesareeverythingandanythingtodowithmedia.He’dbeanassetatcrimescenesandbeabletohandlethedreadedmediareleases.”
“Thatdoesn’texplainwhyhewantedtoleavethesunshineandcomehere.Californiaisabigstate,withplentyofroomtomovearound.”DeputyJakeRowleyhandedhiswifeSandyaplateoffoodfromthegrillanddroppedintoachair.
“Thekidswerestayingwiththeirgrandma.”Wolfeleanedbackandcrossedhislegsattheankles.“Well,step-grandmaandthey’dnevergottenalongwithher.Theystartedgettingintotroubleatschool.”Hefrowned.“Itoftenhappensafteratragedy;kidsfeellostandtaketheiraggressionoutoneveryone.Zactriedkeepingtheminthebigsmokebutitdidn’tworkout.Hefiguredacompletebreakandanewstartinabackwoodstownwouldstraightenthemout.He’sbeenhereamonthnow.”
“InBlackRockFalls?”Kanepressedtwofingerstohisforehead.“Doesheknowaboutthistown’sreputation?”
“Hedoesnow.”Wolfeshrugged.“I’vespokentohimandhe’dwelcomethechallenge.Hefigureshecankeephissiblingssafe.”
“We’vehadaninfluxoftwinsoflate.”Sandy,Rowley’swife,passedabowlofsaladtoherhusband.“Thiswillmakethreesetsofnewtwinsintown,allaroundthesameageandallfraternal.SusieHartwigatAuntBetty’smentionedityesterday.”
“Riosoundsinteresting.”Suddenlystarving,Jennapiledfoodonherplate.“Doyouthinkhe’llcope?It’snothinglikeLosAngeles.”
“Yeah,Ido.He’llprefertheslowerpaceandthere’splentyforhimtodoaroundhereonhisdowntime.Wehavegreatschoolsandhecangetinvolvedwiththelocaldramasociety.Ihearhewritesplaysanddirectsaswell.”WolfeglancedaroundashisdaughtersemergedfromJenna’sranchhouse.
Surprised,Jennastaredathim.“So,he’samanofmanytalents?Ilikethathehasaculturedbackground.”
“Areyousayingwe’renotcultured?”Kanegrinnedatherandraisedaglassofpinotnoirinatoast.“Ifigurewe’redoingokay.LookatJulie,she’shadherartworkdisplayedinthetownhall.Can’tgetmoreculturedthanthat.”
Jennachuckled.“Ididn’tmeantosuggesty’allaren’tcultured.Nowgettingbacktodiscussinganewdeputy,Iwantthistobeateamdecision,andifyouallagree,thenwe’lltakehim.”
“Weneedthehelpandhe’ssolid.”Kanehelpedhimselftoasteakandaddedthetrimmings.“AndwedohaveaspareSUVcruiserjustsittingintheparkinglot.”
“It’sayes,fromme.”Rowleygrinned.“I’llbegladtoshowhimaround.”
“Great.I’llcontacthimlater.”JennalookedupasEmily,Wolfe’seldestandafineMEinthemaking,satdownatthetablealongwithsixteen-year-oldJulieandAnna,thebabyofthefamily.Shelookedatthegirls.“Grabsomefoodbeforeitgetscold.”
She’dbarelyfinishedhermealwhenthe911ringtonesoundedonherphone.Shepushedtoherfeetandwalkedawayfromthetable,headingtothehousetotakenotesifnecessary.Assheclimbedthesteps,sheacceptedthecall.“911,whatisyouremergency?”
“Mydaughterismissing.”Themansoundedfranticandhisvoicequiveredashespoke.“Shewenttocheerleaderpracticelastnightandwasn’tinherbedthismorning.Ifiguredshe’dleftearlyandI’dmissedherbutshe’snotansweringherphone.”
Jennawalkedinsidethehouseandheardfootstepsbehindher,Kanehadfollowedheranddashedpasthertothekitchen,hisbootsclatteringonthewoodenfloor.Asshewalkedthroughthedoor,hehadapenandnotebookwaitingforheronthetable.Sheputthephoneonspeaker.“Okay,I’llneedtotakedownsomedetails.WhoamIspeakingto?”
“Dr.BobTurneroutofRavensWay.”Hisbreathwascomingfastasifhe’dbeenrunning.“MydaughterisLaurie,LaurieTurner.”
Jennasatdownandplacedthephoneonthetable.“OkayDr.Turner,you’respeakingwithSheriffAlton.I’llneedyourfulldetailsandLaurie’s.Howoldisshe?”
“Sixteen.”Turnergavehisdetails.“I’vebeencallingherfriendsandnobodyhasseenhersincesheleftpracticeattheschoolgymlastnight.”
ThealltoofamiliarshiverofuneasinessslippeddownJenna’sspineandsheexchangedameaningfullookwithKane.“Okay,andwhattimewasthis?”
“Aroundnine,nine-thirtylastnight.”Turnerheavedalongsigh.“Ididn’tnoticehermissinguntilthismorning.Icalledherphoneandit’snotresponding.Iwentouttohuntherdownthismorningincaseshe’dslippedoutbeforeIwoke.IwenttoAuntBetty’sCaféandthenIcheckedaroundtownagainbutIcouldn’tfindher.”
Withhermindrunningdownherlistofthenecessaryproceduresinamissingperson’scase,Jennastaredintospaceforabeat.“Doessheownavehicle?”
“Yeah,butthat’snothereeither.”Dr.Turnersoundedfrantic.“Noonehasseenitandit’sdistinctive,it’sa1950Fordpickup,andpaintedfire-engine-red.”
Jennamadenotes.“Okay,wecanputoutaBOLOforthetruck.Doesshehaveaboyfriendshemightbewith?”
“Nope,shebrokeupwithaboybythenameofWyattCooperacoupleofweeksago.Icalledhimandhehasn’tspokenwithhersince.”
IthadbeensucharelaxingSunday.JennastaredatKaneandhisfacewasgrim.Shegaveherselfamentalshake.“Okay,Dr.Turner.I’monmyway.”Shedisconnectedandpushedthephoneintoherpocket.
“I’llgograbmyjacketandweapon.”Kanehurriedfromthehouse.
“What’shappened?”Wolfecameintotheroomloadedupwithdirtyplates.
Jennaexplained.“We’llheadoutnow.Sorrytoruinthecookout.”
“Weallhadarelaxingafternoon.Itwasgreat!”Wolfesmiledather.“Don’tworryaboutanything.I’llexplainwhat’shappenedtotheothersandgettheseinthedishwasher.I’llbesuretosetthealarmbeforeweleave.”
Relieved,Jennasmiledathim.“Thanks,Shane.I’dappreciateit.”
“I’lltendthehorsestosaveyoutimewhenyougethome.”Rowleyappearedatthekitchendoor,carryingplatesoffood.“Sandywillstoretheleftoversintherefrigerator.”
Gratefulforsuchwonderfulfriends,Jennasqueezedhisarm.“Thanks,Jake.”
Sherushedtoherroomtocollectherdutybeltandsheriff’sdepartmentjacket.Givingherfriendsawave,shehurriedoutthedoorasKanedroveupinhisblackunmarkedtruck,affectionatelyknownastheBeast.Climbinginside,shefastenedherseatbeltandenteredtheaddressintotheGPS.Athoughtcametoher.“Justhowmanyglassesofwinehaveyouhad,Dave?”
“One.”Kanegaveheralongstare.“Haveyoueverknownmetodrinkmorethantwoglassesofwine,likeever?”
Jennashookherheadastheyheadedoutthegateandhittheblacktop.“No,can’tsaythatIhave.Whyisthat?”
“LivinginBlackRockFallsisadelightaswellasacurse.”Kaneflickedheraglance.“I’mneversurewhat’sgoingtohappeninanygivenhour,andIliketobeclear-headedandreadyforanything.”
TWO
Stilldampafteralatestormthepreviousnight,thelowlandsandmountainvistassurroundingJenna’sranchappearedtohavereceivedanewcoatofpaint.Dressedinanartist’spaletteoffallcolors,theysparkledunderthelateafternoonsunandgaveoffafresharoma.Ithadbeengoodtoseerainafteradryspellhadmutedthelushgreenlandscape,althoughthestormhadbeenloud.Shehaddiscoveredapartfromthefearofthevetandbaths,Duke,Kane’sbloodhound,hadaddedloudstormstohisrepertoireoffear.HerenjoyableSaturdayeveningwithKanewatchingmovieshadbeendisturbedbyhowlsloudenoughtowakethedead.Thenoisehadsentherblackcat,Pumpkin,climbingthedrapesandhissinglikealeakyfurnace.WhenKane,findingitamusing,hadhowledalongwithhisdog,ithadtakenherforevertountanglePumpkinandcalmherdown.
SuchwerethechangesinpersonalityhappeningtoDaveKaneoflate.Afterhiswifehaddiedinacarbombing,he’dwithdrawnintohimselfbutastheyearsslippedby,he’dslowlycometotermswithhisloss.Hewasstillthesame,lean,meanfightingmachine,ex-specialforcessniper,who’darrivedintownsomeyearsagobutsomehownow,helaughedmoreandseemedtobelivinghislifetothefull.Itwasasifagreatweighthadbeenliftedfromhisshouldersandseeinghimhappymadehersmile.They’dtakenthefirsttentativestepstowardarelationshipbutthedecisiontokeepitstrictlyprivatehadbeenunanimous.Beingsheriffhadresponsibilitiesandifthingsdidn’tworkoutbetweenthem,they’dremainfriendsandnoonewouldbethewiser.
TheyheadedintothetownofBlackRockFalls,Jenna’sgazemovedoverthecrowdofpeoplemakingrepairstotherain-soakedFallFestivalbanners.AsKaneslowedtheBeasttonegotiatethepeoplespillingontoMain,Jennawavedbackatthecheerygreetingsofthetownsfolk,who’dvotedforhertoprotectthemforanextendedfive-yearterm.ThefestivalranfromTuesdaythroughSaturdayandwasamuch-anticipatedtouristattraction.Apartfromthepopularwhite-waterrapids,andhikingorridingintheforest,thisyearthetownwashostingthechainsawwoodcarvingchampionshipsattheshowgrounds,anartcompetitioninthetownhall,andafarmer’smarketintheparklands.Allthisalong
SheglancedatKane.“I’llcallthemediaassoonaswe’vespokentoDr.Turner.I’mgoingtoneedpeopletomanthehotlinephones.”
“Yeah,MaggieandWaltersmightbeabletodothefirstshift.”Kanelookedoverather.“Wecouldhavethecallsdivertedtoourphonesforthenightshiftandsortoutbetterarrangementsforthemorning?”
Jennaconsideredaskingtheirsecretary,MagnoliaBrewster,orMaggie,aseveryonecalledher,andthesemi-retireddeputyWalterstodoaSundayshiftandsighed.“Yeah,Rowley’shadafewbeers,he’llbeokayforthemorning.I’mgladSandycandrivehimhome.Although,thewayshe’sexpanding,shewon’tbeabletofitbehindthewheelformuchlonger.Sheiswhat?Onlyfivemonthsorsobynow?”
“Shemightbehavingtwins.”Kaneshrugged.“Although,theywentforanultrasoundlastweekandRowleyhasn’tmentionedanything.”
Jennasmiled.“Yes,Sandyisplayinghercardsclosetothevest.Mostnewmomscan’twaittoshowofftheimages.”
“Iguesstheywanttokeepthingsprivate.”Kanewinkedather.“Sometimesit’sforthebest.”
“Oh,absolutely.”JennascannedtheGPS.“RavensWayliesparalleltoStanton.Icallthisthecreepypartoftown.Iwouldn’tgonearthosealleywaysafterdark.IwonderwhytherearenostreetlightsonthisstretchofStanton?”
“Iguessthetowncouncilhasn’tcaughtupwiththegrowthofthetown.”KaneturnedrightandtheninstructedbytheGPS,tookthefirstleft.“Therearestreetlightshere.It’sanewerarea.”Hepulledupoutsideabrickhousewithawhitepicketfence.“Thismustbetheplace.”
Jennaledthewaythroughthegateandalongthedriveway.Sheknockedonthedooranditflewopenstraightaway.Shestaredatthedisheveledman,hiseyeswildandwithhiscomboverhairhangingoveroneear.“Dr.Turner?”
“Yes,that’sme.”Turnerscowledather,obviouslyagitated.“Whattookyousolong?”
Ignoringthesmellofalcoholonhisbreath,Jennaloweredhervoiceandusedacalmingtone.“MyranchisoutontheothersideoftownandIhadvisitors.Ileftthemomentyoucalled.Maywecomeinsideandtalktoyou?”
“Iguess.”TurnereyedKanesuspiciously.
Jennafollowedhisgaze.Shehadtoadmit,dressedallinblack,withhisStetsonpulleddownlowoverhiseyesandwearinghisweaponononehiplikeagunslinger,Kaneatsix-fiveandovertwohundredandfiftypoundsofmuscle,didn’tresemblealawofficer.“Ah,thisisDeputyKane.”
“Okay,comeinbutyoushouldbeoutlookingforLaurie.”Turnerwalkeddownashortpassagewayandintoafamilyroom.“Someonemighthavekidnappedher.”
“Whywouldsomeonewanttokidnapher?Hasanyonecontactedyou?”Kanepulledoutanotebookandpen.
“No,noonehascalled.”Turner’seyesflashedwithanger.“I’dtellyouiftheyhad.”
“Isthereanychanceshejustranaway?Haveyouhadanyargumentslately?”Kanewaspushingthemanhard.
“Onlytheusualthings.”Turnersatonasofaandheldhisheadinhishands,staringatthefloralcarpet.“She’sonlyhadherdriver’slicenseforafewmonthsandshedriveswaytoofast.IshouldneverhavegivenhertheFordforherbirthday.Shecouldbelyinginaditchsomewhere.”
ThepoormanwasbesidehimselfwithworryandJennaexchangedalookandashakeoftheheadwithKanetomakehimbackoffalittle.“DoyouhaveaphotographofLauriewecoulduse?”
“Yeah.”TurnerstoodandtookaframedpictureofagirlstandingbesideanoldredFordpickupfromthemantle.HelookedatitforabeatandthenhandedittoJenna.“Itookthisonherbirthday.”
Jennatookoutherphoneandusedhercameratocapturetheimage.“Isthishervehicle?Wasshedrivinglastnight?”
“Yeah.”Turnersighed.“It’snotalongdrivetotheschoolfromhere.”Heattemptedtocorrecthishair,runninghisfingersthroughtheoilystrands.“Astherewasnogameonthisweek,thecheerleadersdecidedtopractice.Theyusetheschoolgymandusuallyfinisharoundeight-thirtyornineatthelatest.”
“Howcomeyoudidn’tnoticeshehadn’tcomehome?”Kaneliftedhisheadfromhisnotes.“Sheshouldhavebeenherebyatleastten.”
“IfellasleepinfrontoftheTV.”Turnercouldn’tsitstillandrockedbackandforth.“I’vefallenasleepbeforeandsheusuallyleavesmehere.I’mbad-temperedwhenwokensudden.”
“Isee.”Kanedroppedhisgazebacktothenotebook.“Doyoulikeafewdrinksbeforebedtime?”
“Yeah,I’vetakentodrinkingmorethanIshouldsincemywifeleftme.”TurneravoidedmeetingJenna’seyes.“ButI’mstonecoldsobernow.”
“Okay.”Jennaleanedforward.“So,whattimedidyounoticeshewasmissing?”Shefrowned.“Itwasalittleafterthreewhenyoucalledme.”
“Ifiguredshe’dgoneoutbeforeIcamedownforbreakfast.”Turnerlookedather,hiseyesred-rimmed.“Icalledhertobringhomemilkandshedidn’tpickup.I’vebeencallingallday.ThenIcalledherfriends.”
“Whattimewasthis?”Kanesat,penraised,lookingathim.
“Aroundeleven.”Turnerpickedupacushionandheldittohischest,squeezingit.“WhenIcalledherfriends,noonehadseenhersinceshelefttheschool.OneofthegirlsmentionedshesometimeshangsoutatAuntBetty’sCafésoIwentthereandaskedthemanagerifshe’dseenher.ThenicewomantookmetothebackroomtoshowmetheCCTVfootageandtherewasnosignofLaurie.It’sasifshe’svanished.”
“Itwouldbehardtohidea1950redFordpickup.”Kaneraisedbotheyebrows.“Maybeshewenttovisithermom?”
“Wedon’tknowwheresheisliving.”Turnerclaspedhishandsinfrontofhim.“IcamehomefromworkandJeanettewasgone,nonote.Shecleanedoutourbankaccountandvanished.Thatwassixyearsago.IobtainedfullcustodyofLaurieandsincethen,wehaven’theardawordfromher.”
“Youdidn’treportherasamissingperson?”Kane’sgazehardened.“Aren’tyouworriedabouthersafety?”
“No!She’snotmissing.”Turnerbecameagitated.“ShetoldmeifIdidn’tquitdrinking,she’dleavemeandnevercontactmeagain.Shetookherclothes,hercar,andourmoney.”HeglaredatKane.“I’dsayshe’sjustfine.”
“Didyouhither?”Kane’sfaceshowednosignofemotion.“Oryourdaughter?”
“Idon’tremembermuchwhenIdrink.”Turnerstartedtorockagain.“ButshewasalwayscomplainingIdidthisorthat.”
“Isee.”Kanegavehimalong,consideringstare.“Isthereanythingyouneedtotellusabout,Dr.Turner?You’reapsychologistandstillpracticing,soIassumeyourwifeneverhadyouchargedwithabuse?”
“Shewouldn’tdare.”Dr.Turnergaveasmugsmile.“Thecourtruledherasanunfitmotherandifanythinghappenedtome,Lauriewouldbeplacedinfostercare.Shewouldn’twantthat,nowwouldshe?”
“Iguesswe’llhavetofindherandaskher.”KaneturnedhisattentiontoJenna.“Lauriecouldhavebrokendownalongthehighway.Maybeweshouldheadouttothehighschoolandretracehersteps?”
“Yeah.”Jennanodded.“Wouldyoumindifwetakealookatherroom?Doesshehavealaptop?”
“Okaybutherbedhasn’tbeensleptin.”Turnerstood.“Shechangedthelinenyesterdayandit’sinthewash.Herroomisasneatasapin.”
Howconvenient.Jennafrowned.“So,thelaptopthen,itgivesusabetterideaofwhoshe’sincontactwithonsocialmedia.”Sheforcedherlipsintoasmall,calmingsmile.“Yousitdownanddirectmetoherroom.”
“Upthestairs,firstontheleft.”Turnerdroppedontothechair.“Takewhateveryouwant.”
Jennastood.“Thankyou.I’llneedpermissionfromyouinwritingtocheckherphonerecordsaswell.DeputyKanewillgiveyousomepaperworktosign.I’llneedyoutocompleteamissingperson’sreportandsignabriefstatementaboutyourcircumstances.Includingthefactyoudon’thavecontactwithyourwifeorknowherwhereabouts.”
“Isallthisnecessary,Sheriff?”
Jennawantedtorollhereyesathislackofcooperation.“Whatinformationyougiveusnow,meanswecanconcentrateonfindingLaurieratherthanchasingdownpeoplewhoarenolongerinvolvedinherlife.”
“Oh,verywell.”Dr.Turner’snostrilsflaredwithasnortofanger.“Givemethepaperwork.”
Sheheadedupthestairsandfoundtheroom.Itwasspotless.Shecheckedthroughthebedsidedrawersandfoundphotographsofcheerleaders,withLauriefrontandcenter,butnojournal.Sheslidthelaptopintoanevidencebagandwasheadingbackdownthestairswhenshenoticedtheboltontheinsideofthedoor.Takingoutherphone,shetookafewimagesofthedoorandroombeforehurryingdownstairs.
Asshewalkedintothefamilyroom,shetuckedthelaptopunderonearmandturnedtoDr.Turner.“Beforewego,I’llneedthecontactdetailsofherex-boyfriendanddoesshehaveabestfriend?Ifso,I’llneedherdetailsaswell.”Shelookedatthedistraughtmanandhandedhimhercard.“Ifyouhearfromhercallme.I’llbecontactingthemediaandputtingoutaBOLOonthepickup.Assoonaswehaveanynews,I’llcallyou.Justsittight,Dr.Turner.We’lldoourverybesttolocateyourdaughter.”
TheyclimbedintotheBeast,andJennalookedatKane.“Thisisgoingtogotwoways,ifwecan’tfindthetruck,Ifigureshe’srunawayorheardfromhermomandwenttoseeher.Ifthetruckshowsupthensomethinghashappenedtoherbecausefromthelookinhereyesinthatpicture,thetruckmeansonehellofalottoher.Shewouldn’tleaveitbehind.”
“Myguttellsmesomething’snotright.”Kanestaredatthehouse.
Jennaheldoutherphonetowardhimtoshowhimtheimageofthebedroom.“Shehasaheavy-dutyboltonherbedroomdoor.”
“Ifhewasviolent,I’mnotsurprised.”Kanesnorted.“Ican’ttoleratemenwhohitwomen.”
Jennaclickedinherseatbelt.“What’syourtakeonhim?Hismoodchangedfromdistraughttoangrylikeflippingaswitchandit’salwaysaredflagwhenapersonwon’tlookyouintheeyes,right?”
“YeahandI’mseeingatonofreasonswhyakidwouldwanttogetoutofasituationlikethat.Herfatherdrinksandbeatsonhiswifeandmaybeheraswell.”Kanerubbedhischinthoughtfully.“Givingadecked-outhotrodtoasixteen-year-old,whenhejustadmittedhiswifecleanedhimout,seemsalittleoverindulgent.”Hesighed.“Mostparentsstartoutwithasafebutlessexpensivechoice.Itseemslikeapay-offtome.Nothinghesaidissittingwellwithmerightnow.”
Concerned,Jennaturnedinherseattowardhim.“Ifigurehemightbeinvolvedbutifso,whycallusandreporthermissing?”
“It’snotunusualforsomeoneinvolvedinacrimetotrytoinserthimselfintoaninvestigation,it’sallpartofthethrill.Theyusuallybelievetheyhaveaniron-cladalibi.He’salreadypulledtheblackoutcardasanexcuseforhisbehavior.”Kanestartedtheengine.“SayhefellasleepinfrontoftheTVatten,he’dbesoberinthemorninganditwouldbeunlikelyshewouldn’twakehimonherwayout.Thatpickupwouldbeloudwhenitstarted.”HeturnedontoStantonandheadedtowardthehighschool.“Ifhediddosomethingtoherlastnight,he’shadallnighttohideherbodyandmakethenecessarycalls.Contactinguscouldjustbepartofhisplan.”
THREE
Innormalcircumstances,Jennawouldhavesearchandrescueoutassoonasamissingperson’sreportwasfiled,especiallyinthecaseofasixteen-year-old,butsomethingwasn’tsittingrightwithher.Beforetheyorganizedasearchparty,shehadtoconfirmthegirlwasmissing.EstablishingatimelineandidentifyingthelastpersontoseeLaurie,wasfollowingprocedure.Theywouldneedtoknowwheretoconcentratethesearch.Ofcourse,oncethemediareleasehitthenews,townsfolkwouldcomeforwardandwiththehelpoftheforestwardens,andsearchandrescue,they’dbescouringtheforestandsurroundsinwell-organizedteams.
JennacontactedMaggieandWalterstotakethehotlinecalls.Witheverythingset,shecouldfocusontheinvestigation.SheleanedbackinherseatandlookedatKane.“I’llholdoffwithasearchuntilwecheckwiththeboyfriendandbestfriend.Ifthingsweren’tsogoodathome,Laurie’sfriendsmightbecoveringforher.Weshouldsplitthequestioning;thegirlfriendismorelikelytoconfideinmeandtheboyfriendinyou.”
“Maybe.”Kanedroveintothehighschoolparkinglot.“Well,lookwhatwehavehere.”
Jennacouldn’tmissthefire-engine-redhotrodpickupsparklingasifithadjustemergedfromthecarwash.“Oh,it’sgoingtobeashametodustthatforprints.”
ShepeeredinsideasKanepulledupbesideit,thenslidoutandtookabetterlook.“Empty.Howdoyougetintothisthing,there’snolockonthisside?”
“Theyopenonthepassengerside.Whyisithere?”Kaneclimbedouthistruckandwalkedtoherside,snappingonsurgicalgloves.“Thedoorsarelocked,andshemusthavethekeys,sowhathappenedtopreventherdrivingithome?”Hewenttothehoodandpushedhisfingersinsidethegrill.“Ah,gotit.”Thehoodpoppedandhelifteditandpeeredinside.“Sabotaged.”Hepointedintotheengine.“Someonepulledoffthebatterycable.”
Jennawalkedaroundthepickup.“So,she’dslideoutthepassengersideandthenlockthedoor?”
“Yeah.”Kanesmiledather.“Waybackthen,havingtounlockyourdoorwiththetrafficflyingpastwasasafetyissue,sotheyslidacrossthebenchseatandoutthepassengerside.Theroadswerenarrowerthosedaysaswell.”
SomethingcrunchedunderJenna’sbootsandshebentdown.“Therearepiecesofaphonedownhereandthebatteryisbythebacktire.I’dsayshedroppedherphoneanditsmashed.”Shestraightenedandwalkedbackandforth.“Nothingelse,shemusthavetakenthecasewithher.”
“Notsomethingshe’ddoifshewasintrouble.”Kanestood,handsonhips,staringatthepickup.“So,wecanassumeshegotaridewithafriendorwalked.It’sonlyamileorsofromheretoherhome.”HeheadedbacktotheBeastandcollectedaforensicskit.“I’lldustforprints.”
Jennawatched,notreallysurprisedwhenthevehiclecameupclean.“Hmm,that’snotgood.Thecarwasdisabledandwipedclean.”Shefrowned.“So,shewassetup;weneedtoknowwhodelayedhersoshecouldn’tgethelpfromoneoftheothercheerleaders.”
“Thisisn’tlookinggood,Jenna.”Kaneremovedhisgloves.“Therecouldbeanynumberofgirlsandboysinacheerleadingsquadandthenyoucanaddparents,friends,familymembers.Thisisgettingoutofhandalready.”Helookedoutovertheparkinglot.“She’sbeenmissingforhours.Ifshe’dsmashedherphone,itwouldbenormalforhertogohomeorfailingthattoafriend’shousetostayovernight.Asnoneofherfriendshaveseenherandwedon’tknowifshe’sincontactwithhermom,wehavetoassumeshe’sintrouble.”
Jennathoughtforafewseconds.“Okay,wegoseethegirlfriendandfindoutwhatsheknows.She’llbeabletotellusthenameofthecaptainofthecheerleadingsquad.Nextwegoseeherandaskhertocontacteveryonewhoshecanrememberwasatpracticeandaskthemtoreturntothegymatsix.”Shepulledoutherphone.“I’llcontacttheprincipalandaskhimtoopenupthehall.”ShemadethecallasshewalkedbacktotheBeast.
“Thatsoundslikeaplan.”KaneclimbedbehindthewheelandaddedthecoordinatesintotheGPS.“Thegirlfriendlivesfiveminutesfromhere.”
VickyPerezlivedinaverypicturesquewoodenranchhouseattheendofalongdrivewayonPine.Jennainhaledthescentofflowersandadmiredtheoverflowinggardenbedsoneachsideoftheporch.Theneat,wellcaredforhomewasnestledamongpinetreesandseemedtoblendinwithitssurroundings.Shewentalonetothefrontdoorandknocked.Whenamiddle-agedwomanopenedthedoorandstaredatherwithonehandoverhermouth,Jennamovedquicklytoreassureher.“Mrs.Perez?There’snothingforyoutoworryabout,I’vecometospeaktoVickyaboutLaurieTurner.”
“BobcalledthismorninglookingforLaurie,hassomethinghappenedtoher?”Mrs.PerezwavedJennainside.“Comein,I’llgetVickyforyou.”
Jennafollowedherintoacleankitchen.“We’retryingtolocateLaurie.Shedidn’tgohomelastnight.”
“Oh,that’snotgood.”Mrs.Perezwentoutandstoodatthebottomofthestairs.“Vicky,comedowntothekitchennow,thesheriffwantstospeaktoyouaboutLaurie.”
Agirlappearedatonceandcamedownthestairsatspeed.Shewasdark-hairedandexceptionallybeautiful.Jennasmiledather.“Doyourecallwhathappenedlastnightafterpractice?”
“Yeah,wecollectedourstuffandleftasusual.”Vickyfrowned.“IwentoverthisbeforewithLaurie’sdad.Youdoknowhe’stheschoolcounselor,don’tyou?HegrilledmelikeI’ddonesomethingwrong.”
Takenaback,Jennablinked.“Really?Hedidn’tmentionanythingtomeatall.CanyoujustthinkbacktowhenyoulastsawLaurie,whatshewaswearing,whoshewaswith,andwhatshewasdoing?”
“Wewearourolduniformsforpractice.Awholebunchofuswalkedouttotheparkinglotandshewenttoherpickup.”Vickytwirledastrandofhairaroundherfingers.“Therewasthisalmightyclapofthunderandsomeonebumpedintoherandshedroppedherphone.Itsmashed.”
WantingtoknowwhohaddelayedLaurie,Jennaraisedbotheyebrowsinquestion.“Whobumpedintoher?”
“Ididn’tsee,therewasacrowdofusallwalkingtogether.OneofthegirlsIthinkbutI’mnotsure.LauriewasreallyupsetherdadwouldfindoutandthenBeckysuggestedshetakeittoCory,he’sthemaintenanceguyandcleansthegymafterpractice.He’srealgoodatfixingthings,especiallyphones.So,shewentofftospeaktohim.BeckywenttochaseafterWyattCooperandthenweallwenthome.”
Jennatookouthernotebookandpenandtookdownthenames.“So,what’sBecky’slastnameandCory’stoo?”
“BeckyPowellandCoryHughes.”Vicky’seyebrowsmetinafrownagain.“Beckyshouldn’tbechasingafterLaurie’sboyfriend,theyonlyjusthadafight,Idon’tthinkit’sover.Hewastherewatchingheratpracticelikealways.”Shesighed.“Although,everyoneknowsshelikesCory,she’salwaysdroolingoverhim.”
Ignoringthestatement,Jennanodded.“Didyouseehertalkingatlengthwithanyoneelseatallthatnight?”
“Yeahafewpeople.”Vickythoughtforafewminutes.“Wewenttotherefreshmentskioskforadrink,andshechattedtoDale.Hewasworkingbehindthecounter.He’sonthefootballteambuthisauntownsthekioskandopensitforusduringpractice.Marlenewastheretoo,MarleneMoore,she’sonthecheerleadingsquad.SheisalwayshangingaroundDale.He’sthequarterback,soeveryonewantstobehisdateattheprom.”
Jennawashavingahardtimekeepingupwiththeteenager’spersonallife.“IncludingLaurie?”
“Includingeveryone.”Vickygrinned.“Butheplaysitrealcool.”
“Isee.”Jennawantedtorollhereyes.“Canyoutellmethenameofthecaptainofthecheerleadingsquad?”
“Iam.”Vickysmiled.
Jennaheavedasighofrelief,atleastthispartoftheinvestigationwaseasy.“I’llneedyoutocallthesquadandeveryoneyoucanrememberwasatpracticelastnight.Tellthemthesheriffwantsthematthegymatsixtonight.Laurieismissingandweneedtofindouthermovements.Wefoundherpickupintheschoolparkinglotsoshemusthavetakenaridewithsomeone.”
“Shewouldn’ttakearidewithsomeoneshedidn’tknow.”Vickyliftedherchin.“She’ssmart,notstupid.I’vebeencallingeveryonealldayandnoonehasseenhersincelastnight.Areyousureherfatherhasn’tlockedherinthecellar?Hethreatensherallthetime.Hetellseveryonehedoesn’tknowwherehermomisbutshe’sstillworkingatthebeautyparlorintown.HetoldherifshetriestotakeLaurieawayfromhimagain,he’llkillher.”
Jennastaredatthegirl.“Youheardhimthreatenher?”
“No,buteveryonesaysso.”Vicky’sbrowneyeswidened.“Whatifhe’skilledLaurie?”
“Don’ttalknonsense.He’safinestudentcounselorandI’veneverheardabadwordagainsthim.”Mrs.Perezshookherfingeratherdaughter.“Youcan’tbelieveeverythingyouhear.”
Jennaheldupherhandtopreventanargument.“DoyouhappentoknowMrs.Turner’sphonenumberorwherewecanfindher?”
“Yes.Iknowhernumberbyheart,wewereatschooltogether.”Mrs.Perezrattledoffthenumber.
Jennaentereditintoherphone.“Hasanyonecalledher?”
“NotthatI’maware.”Mrs.Perezfrowned.“ItwouldbetoofarforLaurietowalkaloneatnight.Shelivesintown.”
Jennapunchedinthenumber.“I’llcallhernow.”Shewalkeddownthehallwayandwentoutside.
Thephonerangseveraltimesbeforeawomananswered.“ThisisSheriffAlton,amIspeakingwithJeanetteTurner?”
“Yes,thisisshe.”
Notwantingtoalarmthewoman,Jennakeptherquestionsgeneral.“CouldyoutellmewhenyoulastspoketoLaurie?”
“ShecalledmelastThursdaytochatabouttheFallFestival,they’rehavingaparadeandshewantsmetocomeby.Why?Issheintrouble?It’sthatdamnpickup,isn’tit?Hasshehadanaccident?”
Takingadeepbreath,Jennakepthervoicecalmandprofessional.“NotthatI’maware.I’mtryingtolocateherisall,shedidn’tgohomelastnight.Sheisn’tintroublewiththelaw,Mrs.Turner.Ifshecallsordropsbycouldyouletmeknowplease?”
“Yes,I’llcallher,shealwaysanswersmycalls.”
ConcernforLauriewashedoverJenna.Thiswasn’tthenewssheneededrightnow.“Thankyou.”Shedisconnectedandwalkedbackintothehouseandmadeherwaytothekitchen.“Jeanettehasn’theardfromhereither.”
“Okay.Vicky,pickupyourphoneandwe’llsplitthelistandgeteveryonebacktothegym.”Mrs.PerezgrabbedthelandlineandlookedatJenna.“We’reusedtocallingeveryonetomakeplans.I’llmakesurethey’reallthere.”
Relieved,Jennasmiledather.“Ireallyappreciateyourhelp,thankyou.”Shehandedheracard.“Herearemycontactdetails,callmeifyouhearanything,anythingatallnomatterhowinsignificant.”
“Okay.”Mrs.Perezpulledoutanotebookfromakitchendrawer.“Comeon,Vicky,startdialing.”
Jennaheadedforthedoor.“I’llseemyselfout.”
ShemovedswiftlyalongthehallwayandoutsidetoKane’struck.Afterexplaining,sheleanedbackinherseat.“Theboyfriendmaystillbeinthepicture.We’llgoseehimnextandI’llgetoutamediareleaseandseeifanyonehasseenLaurie.”
“Itwouldbeunusualforagirlofheragewithsomanyfriends,onfoot,nottocontactsomeone.Imean,shecouldhavedroppedbyhereandcalledhermom,theyareobviouslyongoodterms.Evenifshedidn’twanttogohomeoneofthefriendsfromherinnercirclewouldhaveseenher.”KaneturnedthetruckaroundandheadedbacktoStanton.“IguessweshouldspeaktotheboyfriendbutIhaveaverybadfeelingaboutthis,Jenna.Ifshewasattackedonthestreet,thechancesoffindingheraliveareslim.IfigureweconductasearchalongStanton,likeyousaidnostreetlights.Anyonecouldhavedraggedherintotheforestandnoonewould’veheardorseenathing.”
FOUR
“You’llneveramounttoanything.”Hisma’svoiceshatteredhisthoughts.“You’reawasteofmytime.Thesooneryouleaveschoolandgoworkwithyourpathebetter.I’llbegladtoseethebackofyou.”
“I’msorryIdon’tearnmore,Ma.”Helookedathercurledlip.“I’mdoingthebestIcan.Daddoesn’thaveapositionformeyet.Whenhedoes,I’llmoveout.”
“Andleavemeherewithnothingtoliveon?”Hismashookherfingerathim.“You’rejustlikehim,hedon’tcareifIliveordie.”
Hecouldn’twin.Nothinghesaidpleasedher.“I’llstilllookafteryou,Ma,butrightnowIhavetogodosomethingbeforedark.”Heturnedtoleave.
“That’sright,leavemealoneagain.”Shemovedtowardhim,fistsclenched.“Ifyouwerestilllittle,I’dlockyouintheclosettoteachyousomerespect.”
Hebackedawayfromher,rememberingtheterrorofthedarksmellyholeinthewall.He’dlearnedenough“respect”tolastalifetime.“Idorespectyou,Ma.I’llbebacksoonandwe’llwatchTV.”
“Liar!You’regoingtoseeheragain,aren’tyou?”Shespatathim.“You’rejustlikeyourfather,anogood,uselessSOB.”
Itwaspointlessarguingwithher.Whenshelookedathim,shesawareplicaofthemanwho’dcheatedonherandsetuphousewithabottleblonde.Heheadedforthedoor,hehatedlivinghere.Thedayhispahadwalkedouthe’dmadeitclearhehadnoroomforhiminhisnewlifebuthe’dpromisedhimapositioninhisbusinesseventhoughhe’dbeexpectedtostartatthebottomandworkhiswayup.Oflate,he’dstartedhelpinghispa,drivingoveronSundaystodoyardwork,anddroppingbyeachmorningathisbusinesstoshowhisenthusiasm.Hehadtogetaway.Anythingwouldbebetterthanlivingwithhisma.
Hewalkedthroughthetreesandalongatrackthatledtotheoldbarnandsmiledatthesightofafriendlyface.ShewashiseverythingandtheyhadplanstomoveintogetherbutfirsttheyneededtofindaplaceforLaurieTurner.Hewalkedtoherandtheykissed.“I’vebeenlookingforwardtocominghereallday.”
“Yeah,metoo.”Shelinkedherarmthroughhis.“Itwasfunlastnight.Iwanttodoitagain.”
Theystrolledtogethertotheoldbarnandhepulledoutakeyforthepadlock.“Metoo.”
IthadbeenarushwatchingherstrangleLaurieandbringingthegirlheretotheirsecretplace.Sittingheruptowatchthemmakeouthadstirredsomethingferalinsidehim.Itwaslikeahungerhecouldn’tsatisfyandhewantedmore.“We’lltakeheroutanddumpher,Iknowatonofplacestohideher.”
Thesmellofdeathgreetedhimasheopenedthebarndoorwide.Proppedupagainstthewall,Laurie’sexpressionlesseyesstaredattheminthegloom.Herskinwasblueandherlegsstuckoutfrombeneathher,thefleshbruisedasifshe’dbeensittinginblood.Besidehimhefeltatremblegothroughhisgirl.“Shedon’tlooksoprettynow,huh?”
“Seeingherhereinourspecialplacemakesmemad.”Hisgirlfriendscowledathim.“She’llstinkupthetrunk.”
Heshookhishead.“No,shewon’t.RememberlastsummerIpaintedthekitchenforMa?Itookaboxofplasticsheetsfromoutsidethegeneralstore.Ihavetonsmorestashedinhere.We’llwrapherupanddumpher.”
“LookwhatIhave.”Shegrinnedandopenedherpursetorevealapileofsurgicalgloves.“We’lltakeeverything,herclothesandshoes,andwhenwe’redonedumpingher,we’llburnthemandtheplasticsheet.Wedon’twantanyonetracingherbacktousbecauseI’mnotdoneyet.”ShewalkedintothebarnandstaredatLaurie’sbody.“I’mnotdonewithhereither.Lookatthewayshe’slookingatme—shethinksshe’sallthat.”Sheturnedandadeterminedlookcrossedherface.“Iwanttodoawholesetofthem.We’llgodowninhistoryastheCheerleaderKillers.”Shesnortedwithasuddenburstoflaughterandthenstoppedandfrowned.“We’llneedtobesmartbecauseI’mnotplanningongoingtojail.”
“Don’tworryyourprettyheadaboutthat.”Heslidhisarmaroundhershoulderandadmiredtheirfirstkill.“We’rewaytoosmartforthecopstopinitonus.We’lldumpherbackpackintheforestandthey’llneverlookforheroutatthemines.”Hesqueezedher.“There’llbenothingleftofherhere,Ihavetheperfectplacetoburneverything.”
FIVE
JennaandKanedroveslowlyalongStantonfromthehighschooltothealleyway,inthedirectionLauriewouldhavetakenonfoot.Jennapeeredintotheforest.She’dbuzzedthewindowswideopentopickupanysmells.WithDukesittinginthebackseat,anyscentofdeathusuallycausedareactionandthebloodhoundhadsatmotionlesstheentiretime.“We’llneedasearchpartyforthistowork.”
“IfLauriewasthevictimofathrillkill,it’sunlikelythekillerwouldhavedraggedherverydeepintotheforest.”Kaneflickedheraglance.“He’dhaveattacked,madeherwalkintotheforest,killedher,andthenwalkedaway.So,ifshe’sdead,Ifigureherbodywillbeontheedgesomewhere.”
Jennapushedthehairfromhereyes.“Yeah,unlessshegotaridewithsomeone.”Shethrewherhandsintotheair.“Whyisitthatassoonaswehaveafestivalintownsomethinghappens?”Shestaredattheblacktop.“Ifsomeone’sharmedthisgirl,wehaveathousandtouriststoconsideraswell.Itwillbelikesearchingforaneedleinahaystack.”
“Let’shopeshe’sjustholedupatafriend’shouseandwecangohomeandeatleftovers.”Kaneflashedherasmile.“Orwe’llhavetobeforcedtostopbyAuntBetty’sforsupperbeforeweheadouttothemeeting.AsRowleytendedthehorsesandIhavefoodinthetruckforDuke,there’snoreasontogohomebeforethemeeting.”
Jennasnorted.“HowcomeyoualwaysfindanexcusetodropbyAuntBetty’sCafé?Nomatterinthemiddleofamurdercaseorafteranautopsy,it’sthesame.”
“Amanhastoeattokeepuphisstrength.”Kanechuckled.“So,wecangoouthuntingandfishingtofeedourfamilies.”
“That’swhatstoresarefor.”Jennayawned.“Ioftenwonderhowyou’dsurvivewithoutAuntBetty’sCafé.”
“Oh,I’dsurvive.”KaneacceleratedalongStanton.“HaveyouseenthesizeofthesteaksatAntlersTavern?”
AstheydrovetoWyattCooper’shouse,JennacalledRowleytobringhimuptospeedandfolloweditwithaquickcalltoWolfe.Asateam,shelikedtokeepeveryoneintheloop.WhentheBeaststoppedbesideasmallcabin-stylehome,shecheckedtheaddressandshrugged.“Thisistheplace.IhopeWyattCooperisathome.YoutaketheleadandI’llhangback.”Sheslippedfromtheseatandheadedupthegardenpath.“Hemighttalktoyoumantoman.”Theranksmellofburningcameinacloudofsmokefromthebackyard.
“Idoubtit.”Kane’snostrilsflared.“TohimI’mstillacop.”
Jennaknockedonthedoorandamaninhisfifties,wearingaplaidshirtandjeans,staredatthemopen-mouthed.“Sheriff?Anythingwrong?Isitaboutthesmoke?”
“Nah.”Kanetippedhishat.“Mr.Cooper?We’dlikeawordwithWyatt.”
“Sure,sure,comein.”Mr.Cooperturnedandwalkedinside.“He’soutbackburningtrash.I’llgogethim.”Heheadedthroughthehouse.“Waithere.”
Jennahungbackasaleanmuscularyoungmanofaboutsixteencamewalkingintothehallwaysmellingofsmoke.HeignoredhercompletelyandlookedupatKane.
“Wheredidyouplayfootball,man?”WyattgrinnedatKane.
“Collegeisall.”Kanesmiledbackandtookarelaxedpose;beingnon-threateninggavehimanadvantage.“Ifigureyouknowwhywe’rehere?”
Jennabitbackasmile.Atypicalploytomakeapersonbelievetheyknewhewasinvolvedinsomething.ShewaitedexpectantlyforWyatttospeak.
“Nope,Ihavenoideawhyyouorthesheriffarehere.”Wyattlookedather.“Ma’am—andwhydoyouwanttospeaktomeonaSundayafternoon?”
“IhearyoubrokeupwithLaurie?”Kane’svoiceloweredasheleanedconspiratoriallytowardhim.“Didyouhaveafight?”
“Ah,Iknowwhatthisisallabout.”Wyattjerkedhisheadback.“HerfathercalledaskingmeifI’dseenherlastnight.Itoldhim,yeah,I’dseenherbreakherphonebutshe’dhightaileditinsidetospeaktoCorybeforeIcouldsayanything.Itoldherdadjustthatandhehunguponme.”
“So,youknewshewasupsetanddidn’twaitforherintheparkinglot?”Kanekepthisvoiceatthesamelevel.“Witheveryonegone,didn’tyouworryaboutheroutthereallaloneatnight?”
“Look,man,she’sbeenhangingaroundCorysincehestartedworkingattheschool.”Wyattsighed.“He’saloser,smokesdope,andiswaytoooldforher.Imadeastand,youknow,himorme.Shejustignoredmeandwalkedaway.So,whywouldIhangoutwaitingforherintheparkinglot?IwenttoAuntBetty’s,grabbedaburger,andcamehome.”
“Whattimewasthat?”Kanehadadoptedhisboredexpression.
“Hewashereatten.”Mr.Cooperpokedhisheadoutofadoor.“MywifehadgonetobedandIwaitedupforhim.Wewatchedthenewstogether.Whydoyouneedtoknow?”
“Lauriedidn’tmakeithomelastnight.”Kanestraightened.“Anyideawhereshemightbe?”
“Nope.Herdaddidn’tmentionanythingabouthernotgettinghome.”Wyattdraggedahandthroughhishairandstaredintospace.“Heshouldhavecalledlastnightandmeandtheboyswould’vegoneoutlookingforher.Hertruckishardtomiss.”
“Hertruckisstillintheparkinglot.”Kanewasregardinghimclosely.
“Holyshit!”Wyattmovedaroundrestlessly,eyesdartingineverydirection.“HaveyoucalledVicky?Sheisn’tthatfarawayandLauriewouldwalkthereifshe’dhadcartrouble.”
“Yeah,we’vespokentoVicky.”Kanefoldedhisarmsacrosshischest.“Whatmakesyouthinkshehadcartrouble?”
“Well,itmakessense,ifherpreciouspickupisintheparkinglotthenshemusthavewalkedhome.Shecouldn’tcallanyoneforhelp,couldshe?”Wyattshrugged.“Idoubtshe’dwaitbackforCorytofinishworkandgetaridewithhimeither.Hissisterhatesherandthere’dbehelltopayifshediscoveredCorygaveLauriearide.”
“Hissister?”Kanetookouthisnotebookandpen.“Noonementionedhehadasister.”
“Yeah,she’sonthecheerleadersquad.HernameisVerna,VernaHughes.”Wyattrubbedthebackofhisneck.“Coryhastocleanupandlockthegymafterthepracticesessionsbuthissisterdoesn’thangaround,shegrabsarideordrivesherma’svehicle.”
“Whoelsewastherewatching?”Kanemadenotes.
“Theusualcrowd,someofthefootballteam,Coryofcourse,StanWilliamsthephotographerguy,andDaleCollinswasrunningthekioskasusual.”Wyattdashedahandthroughhishair.“Darn,Ican’tremembereveryone.”
Thephoneinthehouserangandmomentslater,Mr.Coopercameintothehallway.
“Ah,excuseme,folks,butthatwasVicky,shewantseveryonewhowasatthegymlastnighttoreturnatsix.”Mr.Cooper’seyebrowsmetinafrown.“SomethingaboutLauriegoingmissing.You’retocallanyfriendsyoucanrememberbeingthere.”
“Surething,Dad.”WyattlookedbackatKane.“I’dbettergo.You’llbeatthegymtonight?”
“Yeah.”Kanefoldedhisnotebookandpusheditintohispocket.“We’llseeyouthere.”
Jennaturnedandheadedoutthedoor.AstheyreachedtheBeast,shepeeredatKaneoverthehood.“Doyouthinkhe’sinvolved?”
“Hardtotell.”Kaneopenedthedoorandslidbehindthewheel.
Jennaclimbedin,rubbedDuke’sears,andsettledinherseat.“Heseemedalittlejumpytome.”
“Yeah,wellheobviouslystillhasfeelingsforLaurieandbeinginterviewedbylawenforcementisupsettingformostpeople.”Kanestartedtheengine.“Hedidseemconcernedforherwellbeing,whichisaplusbutifwefindhermurderedthenallbetsareoff.”
Jennapulledoutherphone.“Iguessit’stimeforamediarelease.Sheseemstohavevanishedwithoutatrace.”
SIX
ThenewsaboutLaurie’sdisappearancehitthemediaandalthoughnocallscameinaboutLaurie’swhereabouts,asusualthetownsfolksteppeduptojointhesearchparties.Fornow,thelocalsearchandrescuehadtakenchargeuntilJennahadthetimetogetherpeopleorganized.Asdaylightwasfading,anytreksintotheforestwouldbepostponedatnightfallandresumedatdaybreak.KanesatoppositeJennainAuntBetty’sCaféassheorganizedacommandcenterandcalledindeputiesfromsurroundingcountiestoassistinadoor-to-doorsearchoftheareafromtheschooltoLaurie’shome.Sheworkedwithconfidence,asunfortunatelyorganizingsearcheshadbecomeafactoflifeinBlackRockFalls.Beingpartofaforesthaditsadvantages:theycouldalwaysrelyontheforestwardensforassistanceandofcourse,theirclosefriendNativeAmericanAtohiBlackhawkhadalreadycalledtoofferhishelp.
Kaneglancedathiswatch.Theyhadanhourbeforetheyhadtoheadtothemeetingattheschoolgymandhe’dinsistedoneatingbeforealongnightofinvestigatingaheadofthem.He’dnoticedhowJennaskippedmealsduringacrisis,somethingthatseemedtrivialbutwiththepressureofworkandlonghours,grabbingamealwasasimportantasbreathing.Noonecouldconcentrateormakeimportantdecisionswithouteating.ThiswaswhyheappreciatedAuntBetty’sCafé,itservedgreatfood,wasopenfromsixinthemorningtowaypastelevenatnight,andwasrarelywithoutastreamofcustomersbutmembersofthesheriff’sdepartmentcoulddashinfortakeoutoramealandbeservedwithoutdelay.
HetookinJenna’sstrainedexpressionasshemadethecalls.Hisfingersitchedtoreachacrossthetable,squeezeherhand,andtakeherworriesaway.Hesmiledwhensheplacedherphoneonthetable.“Idon’thavetoaskifeverythingisorganized.Youhavethis.”
“I’mjustgladWebberisstillabadge-holdingdeputy.Heofferedtomanthecommandpostthisevening.Rowleywilltakeoverinthemorning.We’llbedirectingthebootsonthegroundfirstthinguntilthenewshiftofdeputiesarrive.”Jennarubbedhertemples.“CoryHughesisgoingtobeopeningthegymtonight.IfhehasLaurie’sphone,Iwantit.Hemighthavebeenthelastpersontohaveseenheralive.”
“Orhaveherholedupsomewhere.”Kanesippedhiscoffee.“Itwasagreatideatogetallthepotentialwitnessestogetherinoneplace.Itwillsaveatonofgruntwork.”
“Weneedmoredeputies.”Jennaletoutalongsigh.“I’malwayscallinginassistancefromBlackwater.”
“ItwasluckyWebberwasavailable.”Kaneleanedbackinhischair.“HeusuallygoesfishingonSundays.”
ColtWebberhadinternedforWolfeattheME’sofficebuthadrecentlybecomehisforensicsassistant.Hewasstillonthepayrollasadeputyandstoodinforthemintimesofneed.Kanenodded.“Ah,thefoodisonitsway.”Hescannedherface.“Pleaseeatsomething.Iworryaboutyou.”
ThefoodarrivedandtheythankedtheserverandKanecaughtJennagivinghimapuzzledlook.“What?”
“Whyareyoucomingoverallprotectiveagain?”Jennanibbledononeofherfries.“PartofmelikesknowingyoucarebutthenIworryitwillbecomeaproblemwhenwe’reonthejob—likewhenyoufirstarrived.”Sheraisedhergazetohim.“Ornextthing,you’llbecallingmema’amagain.”
Tryinghardnottoreactbygrinning,Kanecutintotheprimeribeyeandsighed.“I’llalwayshaveyourback,Jenna.Thatwon’teverchange.”Helookedupather.“WouldItakeabulletforyou?Youbetcha.”Hechuckled.“That’snotbeingoverprotective,that’sjustdoingmyjob.”
“Okay.Youwin.”Jennasighedwearily.“Timeistickingby,let’seat.”
Afterfinishingtheirmeal,KanedroppedapileofbillsonthetableandthenfollowedJennafromthecafé.Theywouldbeatthegymearlyanditwouldgivethemtimetogetorganized.They’dstoppedbytheofficeandcollectedatonofbusinesscardstohandoutandhadcopiesofLaurie’simagetoshowaround.Whentheyarrivedattheschool,theparkinglotwassurprisinglyfullandheparkedoutsidethefrontofthegym.“Itlookslikewehaveabigturnout.Iguesstheywatchedthenews.”
“Yeah.”Jennagatheredherthings.“Ihopesomeonehasinformationorthisisacompletewasteoftime.”Sheglancedaround.“Shecouldbeouttheresomewherealoneandhurt.”
Kaneturnedtoher.“You’vehadpeoplesearchingforherfromthemomentweconfirmedshewasmissing.There’snotmuchmorewecouldhavedone.Itwouldhavehelpedifherfatherhadnotifiedusearlythismorningratherthanwaitinguntilthreebeforecalling.YouknowaswellasIdo,ifsomeonehasabductedher,thechancesoffindingheraliveaftersolongareslim.It’sclosetotwenty-fourhoursnowsinceanyonehasseenher.”
“Yeah,everyhourthatgoesbymakesitlesslikelywe’llfindheralive.”Jennaclimbedoutandcollectedapileofnotebooksfromthebackseat.“Althoughatsixteen,shecouldbeholedupsomewheresothere’sstillhope.”
KaneslidoutfrombehindthewheelandunclippedDuke’sharness.Hemadesurehealwayssecuredhisdoginhisvehicle.Heoftendroveatspeedandinanaccidentifadogweighingonehundredpoundswentflyingthroughawindshielditcouldbelethalforbothhislovedpetandanyoneunfortunateenoughtocollidewithhim.ClippingDuke’sharnessintotheseatrestrainttooknotimeatall.Hehatedseeingdogsstandingunrestrainedinthebackofpickups,asiftheirownershadnocareabouttheirpetsorothersusingthehighways.Herubbedthedog’sears.“Iknowit’sbeenalongday,butwe’llbeheadinghomesoon.”
“Atleasthecansleepwhenhewantsto,we’renotsolucky.”Jennahandedhimapileofhandouts.“We’llneedtogetthenamesofeveryoneheretonight.”
“Sure.”Kanetookthepapersandtheyheadedinside.
Thebrightlylithallwasfilledwithpeopleallsittingonlinesofplasticchairsasifwaitingforatownmeeting.Theplacehadtheusualschoolgymsmell,slightlysourwithatouchofeaudeoldsocks,andbooks.Hehadexpectedacrowdmillingaroundbuttohissurprise,EmilygreetedhimatthedoorandShaneWolfeandhisdaughterJuliewerecloseby.“Hi,Emily,didyouorganizeallthis?”
“Me?”Emilychuckled.“IhelpedbutitwasDad’sidea.Heevenconvincedthemtoopenthekioskforrefreshmentswhenyou’vefinishedtalkingtothem.Assoonaspeoplestartedarriving,hehadthempullingoutchairsfromthestoreroomandsettingthemoutinlines.Juliehelpedmetakedownthedetailsofeveryonecomingthroughthedoor.Wethoughtitwouldsavetime?”ShehandedJennatwonotebooks.“I’llwaitbythedoorincaseanyoneelsecomesby.”
“Ican’tthankyouenough.”Jennagaveherahug.“Theplaceiscrowded,surelynoteveryonehereisfromthecheerleaderpractice?”
“I’mafraidnot.”Emilyindicatedtoanewscrew.“TheydidalivebroadcastfromoutsidethehallandshowedLaurie’sredpickup.Afterthattonsofpeoplearrived.We’vedividedtheoneswhowereheretotherightofthehall,thesightseerstotheleft.”Sheshrugged.“ThatwasJulie’sidea,soyoucouldaskquestionsdirectlytothem.”
KanelookedatJennaandraisedoneeyebrow.“So,ifeveryone’shere,whoisoutsearching?”
“Ihaveitundercontrol.Searchandrescuehaveoveronehundredvolunteersoutlookingforher.”Jennastraightened.“Thisiswherewe’llfindtheanswertowhathappenedtoherandbeabletofocusthesearchintherightdirection.”Sheglancedathim.“Ihatestandingupinfrontofacrowd,it’sworsethanduringmylastelection.”Sheheadedtowardthepodium.
Kanefellintostepbesideher.“Theseareyourpeople.They’rewaitingforinstructions—you’llbefine.”
SEVEN
AfterwrappingLaurieTurnerinplastic,they’dheavedherintothebackseat,andcoveredherwithablanket.She’dbeenheavierthanhe’dexpectedandsweatbeadedonhisbrowandtrickleddownhisbackfromtheexertion.Hisgirlhadfashionedapronsfromtheplasticsheetsandthey’dwrappedthemaroundtheirbodies.He’dseenenoughcopshowstoknowaboutleavingevidencebehind.Allset,they’ddriventhroughtownfarawayfromthesearchpartiesandheadedouttotheoldmines.Aslongshadowscreptinaroundthem,hedroveslowlytotheplacethey’dchosentodumpLaurie’sbody.Theexcitementhe’dhadwhenhisgirlhadstrangledherhadebbed.Thispartoftheplanwasn’tthrillingatall.“Wehavetomakeitfast.Didyouseethenews?Thesheriffexpectseveryonewhowasatthecheerleadingpracticetobeatthegymbysix.”
“Iknow.Youlookbored.”Shecurledastrandofhairaroundherfingerandonehandrestedonhisthigh.“Youfigureoncethey’redeadthey’renofunanymore?”
Hepulledupbesideanoldmineentranceandasheturnedhisvehiclearound,theheadlightspickedupthecloudofdustthey’dleftintheirwake.“Kinda.”Heshrugged.
“Helpmedragherout.”Sheclimbedout,lookingstrangeinthebluesurgicalgloveswithaplasticsheetwrappedaroundherjeans.
AnawfulsmellseepedoutofthebundleastheydraggedLaurietothemineentrance.Inside,thepassagewaytotheshaftwasdarkandforeboding.A“keepout”signblockedtheway.Theydroppedheronthegroundandpulledattheplastictounwrapher,spillinghernakedbodyontothebarrensoil.Heswallowedhard.Laurielookedupathimwithablankexpression,deathlywhite.Bluehadreplacedheroncepinklipsandherhealthyglowhadturnedintoamask.Heneededtogetaway.
“Lookather.She’sstillstaringatme.”Hisgirlaimedakickatthebody.“Stoplookingatme,Laurie.Youcan’thavehim,he’smine.”
“Hey.”Hetriedtocomforther.“She’sdead.Let’sgo.”
Withoutwarning,hisgirlpulledascrewdriverfromherbootandthrewherselfonthebody.Heturnedawayunabletolookather.Seeingherkillhadbeenexciting,thrillingbutthismadehimsicktohisstomach.Whatiswrongwithme?
“Whyisn’tshebleeding?”Hisgirlfriendlookedoverhershoulderathimbreathingheavily.“Iwanttoseeherbleed.”
Hetookherarmandeasedhertoherfeet,unwrappedherfingersfromthescrewdriver,andtosseditdownthemineshaft.“She’sdead.Shecan’tbleedwhenherheart’snotbeating.Helpmecleanuphereandwe’llheadtotheschoolbeforewe’remissed.We’llneedtostopbytheparkandgetwashedup.”
Aftercollectingtheplasticandwrappingtheirapronsandglovesintoabigball,theycarriedittothetrunk.He’dburneverythinglater.Hedrovethevehiclefiftyyardsfromthebodyandtheyranback.Theydraggeddeadbranchesoverthegroundtoremovefootprintsandtiremarks.Bythetimetheyreachedtheirride,hisgirlhadcalmeddownsomebutshestillhadasourexpression
Ashedrovebacktotown,heglancedather.“What’swrong?Itfeltgoodkillingher,didn’tit?Youtaughtheralesson.”
“Idon’tfeelanything.Itwasn’tgoodenough.Thenextone,I’mgonnamessuprealbad.”Shefoldedherarmsacrossherchest.“YouknowIloveyou,right?So,maybeyoucantakehertoahouseIfoundintown,likeadateandthen‘surprise’,I’llbetherewaitingforher.IwanthertoknowthatI’mbetterthansheisandthatyouchosemeoverher.Iwantheraliveandsuffering,sothelastthingsheseesismewithyou.StranglingLauriewastoofast,itdidn’tlastlongenough.”
Thewildlookinhereyesandthewayshetalkedarousedhim.Hisheartraced.Excitementtingledthroughhim,hewethislips.WatchingherkillLauriehadturnedhisgirlintoasuperhero.Heworshipedher.Shehadsaidshelovedhimanditmadehimfeelwanted.Notevenhismahaddonethat.Ifitmadehisgirlhappy,hewouldwalkthroughfiretoseeherkillagain.Heslidonearmoverhershoulderandpulledhercloser.ShesmelledlikeLaurie,slightlyputrid,butthememoryofherstranglingherforhimmadehimsmile.“Yeah,makehersuffer.”Herubbedhischinonherhair.“Theyalldeservetosuffer.”
EIGHT
ThehallfellsilentasJennamovedinfrontofthelectern.Shenoticedthemediajumpintoactionandsuddenlyfeltexposed.HerlifeasDEAAgentAvrilParkerwaslonggone,butthevulnerabilitythatevenplasticsurgerycouldn’terase,surfacedthemomentshestoodinfrontofacamera.Twothingsshecouldn’tchangewerehervoiceandhereyes,andtheideaofbeingdiscoveredhidinginplainsightinBlackRockFallswasneverfarfromhermind.TheCartelshe’dmessedwith,eventhoughallhadbeenreporteddead,hadfingersthatstretchedoutinalldirections.
ItwouldbethesameforDave;althoughhewasofficiallydeadandhadremainedoffthegrid,hispastlifehadcomebacktohaunthim.Itwouldseemnomatterhowhardtheytriedtoremainhidden,thethreatwasaconstantnaggingache.Sheglancedathimstandingstraightbesideher,herrock,andthenclearedherthroat.“It’sgoodtoseeeveryonehere.First,IneedtoknowifanythingunusualhappenedtoLaurieduringpractice.Didshearguewithanyone?”Nohandswentup.“Okay,nextIneedtoknowwhowaswithLaurieTurnerintheparkinglotafterpractice.”
Ashowofhandsshotup.“Okay.Iwantyoutostandagainstthewall.DeputyKanewilltakestatementsfromyoubutbeforeyougo—didanyofyoureturntothegymwithheraftershedroppedherphone?”
Shewaitedbutnooneraisedtheirhands.“Okay.DidanyonespeaktoLauriewhenshereturnedtothehall?”
“Yeah.”AmanwearingjeansandafadedT-shirtpushedtohisfeet.“Ispoketoher.”
Abuzzofconversationwentaroundthehall.Jennanodded.ThemanhadtobeCoryHughes,theschoolmaintenancemanandcleanerwhoVickyhadmentionedearlier.
“Okay,I’llneedtospeaktoyouassoonasI’vefinishedhere.”Shelookedbackatthepeopleinthehall.“WasthereanyonehangingaroundortouchingLaurie’spickupwhenyoulefttheparkinglot?”
NotonepersonputuptheirhandbutpeoplehadalreadystartedtostaresuspiciouslyatHughes.Jennawaitedforpeopletostoptalkingandlookedoverthecrowd.PeoplewerestillfilteringinthedoorandEmilywastakingnames.“Okay,didanyoneseeLauriebetweennineandnine-thirtylastnight?’
“Idid.”AnelderlywomanwearingspectaclesgaveJennaawave.
Jennasmiledathertoencourageher.“Willyoucomeandspeaktome,please?”Shelookedaroundtheroom.“AnyoneelseseeherorhearanythingunusualinthevicinityofStantonRoadbetweentheschoolandRavensHill?”
Noonesteppedforward.Disappointed,Jennaheavedasigh.“Okay,I’mlookingforvolunteersforsearchpartiesstartingatdaybreakandgoingthroughuntilwefindher.Pleasereporttothecommandcenteroutsidethesheriff’sdepartment.Thesearchpartieswillneedtobechangedduringtheday,sowe’llbestartingatstaggeredtimes,sixandtwelve.Anyonewillingtohelpwithgettingoutsuppliestothevolunteersduringtheday,coffee,water,sandwiches,andthelike,itwillbegreatlyappreciated.”
Agroupofyoungmenwavedatherandshepointedtooneofthem.“Yes?”
“Wehavetrailbikesandcanhelpgetsuppliesouttothesearchparties.”Hesmiled.“I’mLeviJones.WhodoIsee?”
“Comeseeme.”SusieHartwigfromAuntBetty’sCafépushedtoherfeet.“I’llseeyougetwhatyouneed.”
ToJenna’ssurprise,MayorPetershamsteppedoutfromthebackofthehall.HenoddedtoJenna.“Evening,Sheriff.Thetowncouncilwillpickupthetabforsupplies.Justsendthebilltomyoffice,Susie.”
“Atcostthen.”Susiefrowned.“I’mnotplanningonmakingaprofitoversomeone’smisfortune.”
“WeallknowhowmuchAuntBetty’sCafécontributestothecommunity.”MayorPetershamsmiledbroadly.“Don’twe,folks?”
Aftertheapplausehaddieddown,Jennanoddedtowardthekiosk.“Thekioskisnowopenforrefreshments.Thankyouforcoming.I’llseesomeofyouatfirstlight.”
AsJennasteppeddowntospeaktoCoryHughes,askinnywomanwithacameramanrightbehindherburstintoJenna’spersonalspaceandstuckamicrophoneinherface.Surprised,shetookastepbackandlookedatherwithoutsayingaword.
“DeniCrawford,BlackwaterNews.Tellme,SheriffAlton,howdidyouwinanothertermassheriff?”Crawfordleanedin,spewingbadbreathlikerottingfish.“Youdon’tseemtobecopingwiththecrimeinBlackRockFalls,it’slikemurdercentraloverhere.”
Wantingtocoverhernose,Jennamovedbackagainbutthewomanfollowedher,relentlessandrude.Shestraightened.“I’mnotsurewhatyoumean.Wehaveamissinggirl,notamurder.Infact,thelastmurdertooccurinBlackRockFallswasalmostayearago.IfIrecallthreemurdersoccurredoversummerinBlackwater,nothere.That’syourtown,notmine.Mycountycoversmanythousandsofmilesandyes,wedohavecriminalsusingourvastforeststohideoffthegridbut,mygoodness,howwouldyoucopeinthebigcity?Justaminute.”Shescrolledthroughherphone.“Asanexample,twenty-fivepeoplewereshotandtwelvekilledinonedayinChicagothisweek.Hmm,itmakesBlackRockFallskindoftamedon’tyouthink?”Sheheldupherphonetoshowthenewsreport.
“Ma’am.”Kanecametoherside.“Ah,there’ssomeoneyouneedtotalkto.”
Jennanodded,gladtogetaway.Shelookedatthewoman.“I’llbehappytogiveoutmediaupdatesonthesearchforLaurieTurnerbutIdon’thavetimetodiscussstatisticswithyou.”
“Okayguys,cut.”CrawfordlookedatKane.“Howcomeyou’realwaystheretorescuethesheriff?Don’tyoubelievesheiscapableofdoingherjob?”Shegavehimasmile,waftingherbadbreathalloverJenna.“Oristherealittleromancegoingonbetweenyouandyou’rebeingoverprotective?Youliveonthesameranch.Howaboutalittleinsidestoryonwhathappensbehindthesceneswhenyou’reoff-duty?”Shetouchedhisarm.“Itwouldmakeagreatweekendsupplement,allglossycolorpages.”
“Thewomaninyellowoverthere,Sheriff.”KaneignoredCrawfordcompletelyandpointedtothebackofthehall.“I’llgetbacktotheothers.”Heturnedhisbackandwalkedaway.
Jennanodded.“I’llberightthereassoonasI’vespokentoawitness.”ShemovedherattentionreluctantlybacktoCrawford.“Yousaidyouwantedascoop?Ihaveoneforyou.”
“Great,goahead.”Crawfordpulledouthernotebook.
Jennawrinkledhernose.“There’saspecialonmouthwashatthegeneralstore.”Shewalkedaway,headinginthedirectionofCoryHughes.
“Hey.”Kanecaughtupwithher.“Whatwasthatallabout?”
“Ihavenoidea.”Jennashrugged.“Someonewithdelusionsofgrandeur,Iguess.She’srightoffthemarkifshebelievesourprivatelifeisahottopicofconversation.Townsfolkhavebetterthingstodowiththeirtime.”
“I’mnotsureIlikedherinferringyoucan’tdoyourjobwithoutme.”Kanefrowned.“Forareporter,sheisveryuninformed.”
Jennastaredathim.“Trustme,Idon’tcarewhatshethinks.Wehaveenoughegocentricpeopletodealwith,forgetaboutitandkeepyourmindonthecase.”
“Sure.”Kane’smouthtwitchedintoasmile.“Justgivemeawaveifyouneedprotecting.”Hewalkedaway.
TakingCoryHughesintoaquietcorner,Jennapulledouthernotebookandpen.Hewastallandlean,abouttwenty,withcollar-lengthhairthathungoveroneeye.“Thankyouforcomingforward.CanyoutellmeaboutseeingLaurieinhereafterthepracticesession?”
“Sure.”Hughesleanedagainstthewall.“Iwassweepingupandshecamerunninginthedoorinarealpanic.She’ddroppedherphone.Itwasinpieces,thescreensmashedandthebatterymissing.Sheaskedmetofixit.”
Jennanodded.“Didyou?”
“Nah,itwastoofargoneandItoldher.”Hughesscratchedhischeek.“Shewasclosetotears,saidherpawouldbeangry.ItoldherI’dgoseeifanyunclaimedphoneshadturnedupinlostandfound.MaybeshecoulduseherSIMcardinoneofthem.”
Hopefulhestillhadtheremainsofthephone,shecontinuedmakingnotes.“Andwhereisthephonenow?”
“Inmyoffice,well,ifyoucouldcalltheclosetwhereIkeepmystuffanoffice.”Hegaveheraslowsmile.“Ihaven’thadtimetocheckthelostandfoundasyet.”
“Great!”Jennasmiled.“Canyougetitforme?IhavesomeonewhocanrepairitifnecessaryandIfoundthebattery.”
“Sure.”Hughesstraightened.“I’llgogetit.”
“Beforeyougo…”Jennamovedinfrontofhim.“Thenwhathappened?”Sheregardedhimclosely,waitingforanychangeinbodylanguage.
“Nothing,Iputthebitsofphoneintoaplasticbagandstuckitonashelfinmyoffice.”Heshrugged.“Ilockedthefrontdoorbehindherandwenthome.”
“Didyouseehertruckintheparkinglot?”Jennafoldedhernotebookandplaceditintoherpocketandthenpulledoutacardandhandedittohim.
“Nope.”Hestaredatthecard,turningitoverinhishand.“IturnoutthelightsbeforeIleaveandmytruckisoutback.Idrovestraightpastandontotheroad.Ididn’tlooktoseeifanyonewashangingaround,allIwantedtodowastogetoutofthere.”
Jennachewedonherpen.“So,shewould’vehadtowalkbacktohertruckinthedark?”
“It’snotthatfarandshehadtimetogettherebeforeIclosedup.”Hughesshrugged.“Itwasgettinglate,andwhenIturnoutthelightsitmakesthekidshurryonhome.I’mnottheirnursemaidandthey’renotbabies.”
Slightlyuneasy,Jennafrowned.“Didyouseeanothervehicleontheroad?”
“Yeah,Ipassedaneighteen-wheelerheadingoutoftownbutnothingelseuntilIdrovedownMain.”Heshookhishead.“Idon’treallytakemuchnoticeofthevehiclesIdrivepastunlesstheydosomethingstupid.”
“Doyoulivewithanyone?”Jennaliftedherchin.“Anyonewhocanverifywhattimeyouarrivedhome?”
“Ilivewithmymaandmysister.Mypawalkedoutonusrecently.”Hefrowned.“ButbytenMawasinbedandVernadidn’tcomehomeuntillater.You’lljusthavetotakemywordforit,Sheriff.”
Jennanodded.“Okaythanks,gograbthephoneandifyouthinkofanythingelseorhearanyonementioningLaurie,pleasecallme.”
“Sure.”Hugheswalkedintothecrowd.
“Ah-hem.”ThesoundcamefrombehindJenna.
Sheturnedtoseeanelderlywomaninayellowdresspeeringatheroverherspectacles.“Ah,sorrytokeepyouwaiting.YousawLaurielastnight?”
“Yes,Ididindeed.”Thewomanfiddledwithherpurse.“Shewaswearinghercheerleaderoutfitandcarryingabackpack.Imagineayoungwomanwalkingoutinthemiddleofthenightdressedlikethat?ThenIseeavehicleslowdownbesideher,justlikeyouseethemenchasingafterstreetwalkersonTVshows.ShejumpedstraightinandthecardroveawayintheotherdirectiontowardStanton.NowIknowLaurielivesoutofRavensWay,Ican’tfigurewhyshe’dclimbintoacarwhenshewassoclosetohome.”
Heartpounding,Jennatookouthernotebookagain.“Yourname,ma’am,andaddress?”
“Mrs.York.”Sherattledoffherdetails.
Abreakthroughandsoearlyinthecasewouldbeincredible.Jennaneededallthedetails.ShewavedKaneover,asheseemedtobeabletoidentifyeveryvehicleontheplanet.“Whattimewasthis,doyourecall?”
“Closetonine-thirty.”Mrs.Yorknoddedasiftoherself.“Therewasastormcoming,soIgavemydogarunintheyardandwasheadingbackinsidewhenshecamerunningoutofthealleyway.”
Holdingupahand,Jennastaredather.“Running?Wassomeonechasingher?”
“NotthatIcouldsee.IwaslookingthroughtreebranchesbutIknowitwasLaurie.”Mrs.YorkturnedherattentiontoKaneandthenmoveditbacktoJenna.“Shemovedunderthestreetlight,lookedbehindher,andthenhurriedalongthesidewalk.Nextminute,headlightscameroundthecornerandthevehiclestopped,shejumpedin.TheydroveoffandIwentbackinside.Itwasnoneofmybusinesswhatshewasdoing.”
Jennapushedon.“Didyouseewhowasdrivingornoticeanyoneelseinthevehicle?”
“No,I’mafraidnot.”Mrs.Yorkscreweduphereyes.“No,justadarkshapeisallIremember.Yousee,Lauriewasbendingoverlookinginthewindow.Sheobscuredmyview.”
“ThisisDeputyKane.”JennaindicatedtoKane.“Canyoudescribethevehicletohimformeplease?”
“Ican.Itwasn’toneofthosetruckstheyoungpeopleusuallydrive,itwasaChryslersedan,maybegreenorgray.”Mrs.YorksmiledupatKane.“IknowitwasaChryslerbecausewehaveoneanditwassimilar.”
“I’llfindsomeimages.”Kanepulledouthisphone.“We’llseeifoneofthemlooksfamiliar.”
Jennareturnedtothelectern.“CouldIhaveyourattention,please?”Shewaitedforthebuzzofconversationtodiedown.“DoesanyonehereknowanyonewhodrivesaChryslersedan,greenorgray?”
Thesilencewasdeafening.“Okay,thereisastackofmycardsonthetablebesidetheentrance.Pleasetakeone,andifyouseeanyonedrivingasimilarvehicle,takedowntheplatenumberandcallthehotlineonmycard.Thankyou.”
Jennascannedthehall.Hugheswasheadingherwaycarryingaplasticbag.ShesteppeddownfromthelecternandwenttoKane’sside.“Excuseme,Dave.DidyougetthestatementsfromthepeoplewhospoketoLaurieintheparkinglot?”
“Wolfetookover,soIcouldrescueyoufromthereporters.”Kanegaveheralopsidedsmile.“He’salmostthroughbythelookofthings.”
“Okay.”JennahandedMrs.Yorkhercard.“I’llleaveyouwithDeputyKane.Ifyouthinkofanythingelse,callme.Anythingatall.”SheglancedatKane.“Finishuphere.I’lltalktoHughesagainanddotheroundsofthehall.We’lldropbythecommandcenterandthenwe’llheadhome.Wehaveanearlystartinthemorning.”
NINE
Monday
MiststillcurledthroughthelowlandswhenJennaandKanearrivedatthecontrolcenteratdaybreak.Thefallmorninghadacrispnessintheairwiththedistincttangy,earthysmellthatcamefromdeadleaves.Inthedistancethesnowcappedmountainsdominatedthelandscape.IthadbeenacoldnightandifLauriewasouttherealoneandinjured,herchancesofsurvivalwouldbeminimal.Thesearchpartieshadinsistedongoinglongintothenightbeforeitbecametoodangeroustobemovingaroundtheforest.AstheyroundedthebuildingJennastaredatthecrowd.Peoplehadgatheredatthebackofthesheriff’sdepartmentandspilledontothesidewalk.SherecognizedsomeofthedeputiesfromLouanandBlackwaterbutnotthemanstandingbesideRowley.Sheeasedherwaythroughthecrowdtowardhim.ItseemedRowleyhadcompletedtheorganizationatsomeungodlyhourandgroupswereleavingwithforestwardensanddeputiesallcarryingmaps.
“Morning.”Rowleynoddedinherdirectionandhandedadeputyapileofmaps.“NosightingsofLaurieatallovernightbutwe’redoingagridsearchoftheforesttwomilesalongsideStanton.Atohiwillbebackbynoon.Heworkeduntillateintothenightwithhisteam,checkingallthetrailswideenoughtodriveavehicle.I’llmovethecommandcentertothefrontdesknoweveryoneisorganized.”
“So,youhaveeverythingundercontrol?”Jennasmiledathim.
“Yes,ma’am.”Rowleycollectedhisthings.“MaggiewillbeinatnineandsamewithWalterstogivemeabreaksoIcangohavebreakfast.”
“Icanwatchthedesk.”EmilyWolfewasleaningagainsthersilverColoradoandstraightenedtocometowardthem.“Idon’thaveclassestoday.Yougoeat.”
“Thanks.”Rowleylookedtired.“Iwon’ttakelong.”
Jennafrowned.“Takeyourtime,youlookexhausted.We’llmanagejustfine.”
Shetookintheyoungmanbesidehim.DressedinaBlackRockFallsdeputyuniform,hecouldonlybeZacRio.Tall,slim,andmuscular,withdarkcurlyhairandstandingaroundsix-three,hehadafriendlyintelligentexpression.Sheofferedhimherhand.“YoumustbeZacRio?I’mJennaAltonandthisisDaveKane.”Hishandshakewasfirmbutbrief
“Welcometocrimecentral.”Kaneshookhishand.
“Oh,Idon’tthinkso.”Rioshookhishead.“What’shappenedhereinthelastfewyearsisaweekend’sworkelsewhere.Thisisamassivecounty.I’mnotsurprisedpeoplecomeheretodisappear.”
Jennalikedhimalready.“Comeinside,we’llshowyouaround.”
“Thankyou.”Riolookedaround.“Iarrivedjustintimebythelookofthings.Howdoyoumanagewithonlytwofull-timedeputies?”
“Wecallinhelpfromtheothercounties.”Jennatookthesteps.“Wecurrentlyhaveateenagegirlmissing.I’llbringyouuptospeed.”
“Noneed.”Rioflickedheraglance.“Wolfewalkedmethroughthecaselastnight.”HegaveDuke’sheadascratch.“IknowallaboutDukeaswellandWolfegavemetherundownoneverynewforensicstechniquehe’susedoverthelastmonthorso.”
“Yeahhetendstodothatbutlosesmehalfwaythrough.”Jennagrimaced.“Although,Wolfeneverceasestoamazeme.Heputsinthehoursandisamazingathisprofession.”Sheledthewaytothefrontofthebuildingandwalkedinside.“Heandhisgirlshelpedoutattheschoolgymlastnight.We’dhavebeenthereuntilwaypastmidnightwithouttheirhelp.”
Theymovedinsidetheofficeandshesankintoherchairbehindthedesk.KanesatdownandRiostood.Jennasmiledathim.“Takeaseat.You’llbeworkinginthemainofficewithKaneandRowley.Ifnecessary,wehaveacommunicationsroomwecanuse.Myofficewillbegettingupgradedinthenextfewweeks.Asyoucanseebytheworkgoingonoutside,we’vehadsubstantialadditionsmadetothebuilding.”Shethoughtforabeat.“Thenthere’sthehouse.It’sfullyfurnishedandhasroomforahousekeeper.It’sownedbythisofficesonorenttopay.I’vereplacedallthemattressesandlinen.It’sgoodtogo.Youcanmoveinwhenyou’reready.”
“Yes,Wolfementionedthataswell.”Riosmiled.“I’mpaidupuntiltheendofnextweek,sowe’llmakethemovethen.I’llneedtimetopack.”
“Good.”Jennaleanedonthedesk,andclaspedherhands.“I’dliketoknowaboutyourexperiencewithmissingpersonsandmurdercases.”
“I’vehandledmanyofbothandsolvedallbutone.”RioremovedhisStetsonandplaceditonherdesk.“I’mveryinterestedincriminalbehaviorandbecauseIwasgiftedorcursedwithanincrediblememory,IretaineverythingIreadorsee.Myproblemis,I’mnotabehavioralanalyst.IappreciateDeputyKaneisaprofilerandWolfeinformedmeyouhavetheearofJoWells,theFBI’stopbehavioralanalyst.Icanprovideyouwithcasestudiesontheflyascomparisons,whichwouldbeofsomehelp.”Heclaspedhishandstogether.“I’mstudyingMontanalaw,asbetweenstatesthedifferencesareconsiderableasI’msureyoubothknow.You’renotfromaroundtheseparts,areyou?”Heshrugged.“That’sanotherannoyingfeature,Iseemtobeabletopinpointaccentswithaccuracy,althoughKaneherehasmebaffled.”
“DoI?”KanegaveJennaaknowinglook.“IfiguredI’dstartedtoblendinfine.”
“You’reamixture,soI’dsayyoumovedaroundasakid.”Riosnappedhisfingers.“Armybrat?”
“Yeah,wemovedaroundsome.”Kanesmiled.“HaveyoulivedinCaliforniaallyourlife?”
“Yeah,butthisisourhomenow.”Riofrowned.“Ilostmyfolksinaplanecrashayearago.Ileftmybrotherandsisterwithmystep-grandmaandtheydidn’tsettle.Itwasanightmare.Theyranawayandittookmeweekstofindthem.”Hepushedahandthroughhishair.“Havingfifteen-year-oldslivingwithmeinaone-bedroomapartmentwasn’tgoingtowork,sowemovedhere.ItookanyjobIcouldfindandgotthekidsintoschool.They’vesettleddownwellbutImissedlawenforcement.WhenWolfehuntedmedownandtoldmeabouttheavailablepositionhere,Ihadtoapply.”
Jennanodded.“It’snotthesameashavingadetective’sshield,weallworktogetheraccordingtoourstrengths.”
“Yeah,Wolfeexplained.”RioglancedatKane.“AgoodleaderplaystotheirstrengthsandfromwhatIseenobodyiscomplaining.”
“Yourapplicationmentionedaninterestinmedia.”KanestoodandwenttothecounterandfilledJenna’scoffeepotwithwaterfromthesink.“Doesthismeanyou’llbeabletohandlethedreadedpressreleases?”
“Sure.”Riosmiled.“Icancapturecrimescenesandtakeanyimagesyourequireaswell.Ihaveatrunkloadofequipmentatyourdisposal.”
Jennagrinned.“Sweet.Ifigurewe’reallgoingtogetalongjustfine.”Shestood,pickeduphernotebook,andgrabbedthepenforthewhiteboard.“Now,I’llgetdownsomenotesonwhatweknowaboutLaurieTurner’sdisappearance.”
“Ifyou’llallowmetomakethingseasierforyou,Sheriff?”Riosmiled.“Icouldhandlethewhiteboard.Idon’tneednotes,it’sallinhere.”Hetappedhishead.
“Well,thatwouldsavemeatonoftime.”Shehandedhimthewhiteboardmarker.“Gorightahead.”
“IfandwhennecessaryIcandistinguishbehavioralpatternsaswell,socangiveyouanideaofwhereakillermightstrikenext.”Rioclearedhisthroat.“Well,inaplacethissizeanapproximationatleast.”
“Yeah.”KanecollectedcupsandaddedthefixingstoJenna’sdesk.“Wediscussed‘comfortzones’withJoduringourlastcase.It’sgoodtoknowyoucanrecognizeapatternattheget-go,itwillsavetime.”
Jennaleanedbackinherchairandstaredatthem.“Rightnow,wehaveamissinggirl.So,getyourheadsaroundtheevidencetodate.ThevehicleissignificantandthewomanwhonoticedLaurie,saidshewascarryingabackpack.”
“Yeah,couldshehaveplannedtorunoffwithsomeone,aboyfriendperhaps?”Riopausedfromaddingnotestothewhiteboardandopenedhishandswide.“GirlsofLaurie’sagedoitallthetime.”
“Youhaveexperiencewithcasesinvolvingsixteen-year-olds?”Kanefilledthreecupsandreturnedthepottotheheatandthensatdown.
“HappensIdo.”Riosatbackdown,ignoredthefixings,andblewonthehotbrew.“Mybrotherandsisteraretwins,theyjustturnedsixteen.Idon’trememberlifebeingsocomplicatedatthatage.It’sasifthey’reatwarwiththeworld.”HeglancedatJenna.“TheyjusttookoffandIfoundthematasoupkitchenthreedayslater.”
“Didtheyhaveaproblemwiththeirgrandma?”Kaneaddedcreamandsugartoacupandstirredslowly.
“Yeah,shehasatendencytorundownmyfolksandbelieveseveryoneisuseless.”Riosighed.“That’swaterunderthebridgenow.TheyarehappyatBlackRockFallsHighSchoolandhavesettledinwell.IwasexpectingittotakelongerbutIfiguretheyappreciatethechancetostartfresh.”
“That’sgoodtoknow.”JennasmiledasKanepushedthecuptowardherandthentendedtohisown.“Butthisgirlbrokeupwithherboyfriend,we’vespokentohimandtheotherguysheapparentlylikedwas—”
“CoryHughes.”Riowavedahandattheboard.“Hehadherphonebutwasn’tthelastpersontoseeheralive.”
“Yeahandhedoesn’tdriveaChryslersedan,hisrideisaGMCpickup.”KanethumbedthroughstatementsWolfehadtakenthepreviousevening.“Hewasverycooperative.Wolfehasthephone,andhe’llbeabletocheckthephonerecordsandwe’llhavealistofhercontacts.”
“Hmm.”RiolookedatKane.“So.Someoneunknownbumpedintoher,shedroppedherphone,tookittoHughesandwhenshecameoutsomeonehadtamperedwithhercar.”Henarrowedhisgaze.“Iknowzipaboutengines.Howlongwouldithavetakensomeonetodisablehertruck?”
“Ifthepersonknewhowtoliftthehood,notimeatall,buthowmanypeoplewouldknowthetechnique?IonlyknowbecauseIworkedononeasaboy.”Kanelookedthoughtful.“AssumingpeoplewerestillleavingwhenLauriereturnedtothegym,noonenoticedanyonetamperingwithherpickup.”
Jenna’smindwasworkingovertime,andshe’dreplayedthesceneinherheadrepeatedly.“IfigureLaurie’sabductionwasplanned.”Shelookedfromonedeputytotheother.“Thetamperinghappenedduringthetrainingsession.HerfriendVickystatedthatsomeoneinthecrowdbumpedintoLaurieandknockedthephoneoutofherhand.Thatcould’vebeenaset-up.ItwascommonknowledgeshehadthehotsforHughes,sowhoelsewouldshegotoforhelp?Theyallsaidhefixeseverythingincludingphones.”
“Yeahthatmakessense.”Kanesippedhiscoffee.
Jennacouldseeitasclearasday.“LauriegoestospeaktoHughes.Hecan’tfixherphonesosheheadsbacktoherpickup.DuringthistimeHughesleavessowhenLaurierealizeshervehiclewon’tstart,she’sstuck.Hugheshasgone,shehasnophonesosheheadshomeonfoot.Whoeverpickedherupmusthavefollowedherandthendrivenupandofferedheraridehome.”Shestoodandaddednotestothewhiteboard.“SheknowsthepersondrivingtheChryslerandclimbedinwithoutfear.Whatweneedtofindout,iswhathappenednext.”
Aknockcameonherdoor.ItwasEmily.“Wehaveabody!”
TEN
AsinkingfeelingdroppedoverJennaandshestaredatEmilyindisbelief.“Female?”
“Yeah.Alinesmanfoundheroutattheoldmine.She’snakedandcutupsomefromwhatthemansaid.Herearethecoordinates.Theguyisstillonscene.HisnameisAlWatson.”Emily’sfaceshowednoemotionasshepassedJennaaslipofpaper.ShehadmasteredtheconcealmentanMEmusthavetocovertheirinneremotions.“I’llcallDad.”Sheturnedinatossofherlongblondehairandvanisheddownthehallway.
“Isshethetraineemedicalexaminer?”RiolookedafterEmilywithobviousinterest.“Shedoesn’tseemoldenough.”
“Well,likeyou,she’ssomeyearsaheadofhertime.”Kanesmiled.“Shestillhasyearsofstudyaheadofher,butwithWolfetoguideher,she’llmakeafinemedicalexaminer.”Kaneswallowedhiscoffeeandstood.“I’llcallRowleyandlethimknowwe’llbelockingtheoffice.”HestrolledoutthedoorwithDukeonhisheels.
Jennastood.“Sure,thanks.”ShelookedatRio.“Doyouhaveyourcameraswithyou?”
“Yeahthey’realwaysinmytruck.”Riosmiledather.“It’sahobby.”
Jennanodded.“Great,thenfollowustothelocation.You’llberecordingthescene.”
“Sure,butwhataboutRowley?”Riolookedgenuinelyconcerned.“He’smysuperiorandIdon’twanttobetreadingonanyone’stoes.”
Astonishedbyhisconcern,Jennamethisgaze.“I’myoursuperior,Kaneisdeputysheriffbutweworkasateam.IneedRowleyheretoholdthefortwhilewearerecoveringthebodyandI’llneedyoutorecordthescene.”Shesmiled.“It’shorsesforcourses,Zac,andthat’showwerollaroundhere.”
“Okay.”RiofinishedhiscoffeeandsmootheddownhishairbeforepushinghisStetsononhishead.“IfigureI’mgoingtoenjoyworkinghere.”
Theyheadedoutinaconvoy,movingthroughtowntryinghardnottoattracttoomuchattention.ThelastthingJennaneededwasthemediadestroyingevidenceatacrimescene.Asthemedia’sattentionwasonthesearchparties,bythetimetheylefttownandheadedfortheindustriallowlandsthatspreadoutbetweenBlackRockFallsandBlackwaterthey’dleftthemediavansfarbehind.TheGPSledthemalonganoldunevenroad.Moundsofdirtandrockslongcoveredbyweedsdottedthesurroundinggrasslands.Cabinslongdesertedhadplantsgrowingfromtheguttersandsatingeneraldisarray.Theexhaustedgoldmineshadrecentlybeensoldtoaminingcompany,who’dreturnedfavorableassaysandplannedtoreopenthelucrativeindustry.Newminesmeantprosperityforthetownandworkforatonofpeople.Agoodsourceofenergywasvitalandnewelectricitylineshadbeenerectedoverthelastsixmonths.
ThewhitepaintofavehiclesparkledunderthemorningsunandJennamadeoutthelineman’struckparkedbesideoneofthenewelectricityposts.“Thatmustbeourguy.”
“Ifhe’sworkingaloneitwouldhavebeenashockfindingabodywayouthere.”Kanepulledupbesidethetruck.“Iwonderwhathewasdoingoverbythemineshaft,itlookslikeit’ssomewaysfromhere?”
Afterscanningthearea,Jennaunclippedherseatbelt.“Iguesswe’regoingtofindout.”
Behindher,RioslowedhisvehicleandstoppedbutlikeWolfe,heremainedinside.Jennasmiledtoherself.Itwasasignofagooddetectivetowaitandnotenterthecrimescenebeforeinvited.Oncetheyapproachedthebody,Wolfewouldtakethelead.AnME’sinvestigationtookpriorityatthecrimesceneandshevaluedhisknowledge.Sheopenedthedoorandherbootshitthehardsoil.Bythetimesheroundedthehood,Kanehadcoaxedthemanoutofthecabinofhistruck.Shewalkeduptohim.“AlWatson?”Shemadetheintroductions.“Wheredidyoufindthebody?”
“Overthere.”Watsonpointedtotheright.“IwasmakingrepairstotheconnectionandseensomethingsoIdroveovertolook.”
Jennanodded.“Didyougetoutthetruckortouchanything?”
“No,ma’am.”Watson’sfacedpaled.“Iturnedrightaroundandhightaileditbackhereandcalled911.”
“Youdidtherightthing.”Relieved,JennaglancedatKaneandhewenttospeaktoWolfe.SheturnedbacktoWatson.“Didyouseeanyonehangingaroundordrivingbythismorning?”
“Nope,notasoul.”Watsonranbothhandsdownhisface.“Itwasashockseeingayounggirllikethat.”
Jennaunderstoodthefeeling.“Willyoubeokay?”
“Iguess.”WatsonswallowedandhisAdam’sapplebobbedupanddown.Hewassheet-white.“Isshethemissinggirlthat’sbeenalloverthenews?”
“Ihavenoideaatthistime.”Jennahadtokeephimfrominformingthepress.“Imustinsistyoutellnooneaboutthisuntilweestablishwhoitisandnotifynextofkin.Thepresswillbealloveritanditwouldbeaterribleshocktothefamilyiftheyhearaboutitonthenews.Plus,crucialevidencecouldbedestroyediftheycomehereandstampalloverthecrimescene.Doyouunderstand,Mr.Watson?”
“Sure.”Watson’sgazedriftedovertoWolfe’svan.“I’llcallinsickandgohome.I’mdoneherefornow.”
“Thatwouldbeforthebest.”Jennawalkedhimtohistruck.“Wehaveyourdetailsandwillcontactyouifweneedanymoreinformation.”Shehandedhimhercard.“Callmeifyouthinkofanythingelse.”
“Iwill,thankyou.”Watsonclimbedintohistruckanddroveaway.
JennawalkedbacktotheBeastandclimbedinside.“Hespottedthebodyfromupthepoleandwenttolook.”
“Iwashopingwe’dfindLaurieTurneralivebutafterdiscoveringsomeonedisabledhertruck,Iwasn’toptimistic.”KanedrovetoWolfe’svanandparkedinapatchoflongdrygrass.
AsshepickedherwaywithcarearoundWolfe’svan,shecaughtthesmellofdecay.ShepulledoutacoupleoffacemasksandhandedKaneone.“Fromthesmell,she’sbeendeadsinceSaturdaynight.”
“Whathavewegot?”KanestoodbesideherontheperimeterofthesceneasWolfeprocessedthebody.
“Femaleapproximatelythesameheight,age,andhaircolorasLaurieTurnerbutherfaceistoodamagedtomakeavisualID.”Wolfepeeredatthemoverhisfacemask.“I’llletRiofinishcapturingthesceneandthenWebberwilltakethestillsbeforeIexaminethebodybutIknowthekillerinflictedthestabwoundspost-mortembythelackofbloodloss.Shewasn’tkilledhere.Thelivormortis,thebluish-purplediscolorationundertheskinofthelegsandbuttocksduetogravitationofbloodafterdeath,indicatesshewasinasittingpositionforhoursbeforebeingmoved.”
AsolidweightsettledinJenna’sstomachatthesightofthebody.Thegirlhadweltsaroundherneckandmultiplestabwoundsoverherfaceandchest.Itdidn’ttaketoomuchinsighttoseetheragebehindtheattack.Multiplestabwoundsandtothefacewasverypersonal.Whoeverdidthis,hatedthisgirl.SheturnedtolookforKane,andfound
“Yeah.”Kaneindicatedbehindhim.“Someonesurewenttothetroubleofcoveringupanytracks,theysweptthearea.”
ApricklewentdownJenna’sspine.“Showme.”
“Someonedraggedthosedeadbushesoverthereandpulledthemovertheirtracks.Thebushesareheavy,whichmeansthey’restrong,soI’dsaymalewithmusclebulk.”Hesnappedonacleanpairofsurgicalgloves.“Itriedpullingthemtogetheranditwasn’teasy.”
“Hmm.Interesting.”Riocametoherside.“I’vecapturedthescene.I’veusedagridfilterontheimagessoit’seasiertoidentifyevidencewhenweleavethescene.”Hefrowned.“Thatwomanwasn’tmurderedhere.Herbodyisclean,nodefensivewoundsthatIcansee,noblood.It’sadumpinggroundbuttherearescuffmarksbesidethebody,somethingtheunsubmissed.Itlooksasiftheykneeledbesidethebodytoinflictthewounds.Smallpuncturewounds,likeanicepickorsimilar.”
“Unsub?”Jennalookedathim.“IheardJousingthatterm,whatdoesitmean?”
“Unknownsubject.”Rioregardedherwithasurprisedexpression.“You’veworkedcaseswiththeFBI.It’satermtheycommonlyusenow,Iguesstosoftentheword‘killer’because,intruththat’swhoitusuallyrefersto.It’scommonwithlawenforcement.”
Impressed,Jennaregardedhernewdeputywithinterest.HaveIbeenoutoftouch,thatlong?“Okay.Goon.”
“So,ifthegirlwasn’tkilledhere,there’saprimarycrimesceneouttheresomewhere.”RioglancedatKane.“Inoticedyoucheckingtheground.Itlookslikethekillercoveredtheirtracks.”
“Yeah,suredoes.”Kaneregardedhimclosely.“Whatelsedidyougetfromtheattack?”
“Hate.”Rio’smouthturneddown.“Theywantedtomakesurethevictimwasdead,whichmakesmebelievetheunsubisknowntothevictim.”
“IfigurethatfactiswellestablishedbyMrs.York’sdescriptionofLauriegettingintotheChrysler.”Kaneshookhisheadslowly.“Fromheraccount,Laurieappearedscaredandwaspleasedtoseethepersoninthevehicle.”
ThetoofamiliarfeelingofdreadcreptoverJenna,shehuggedherchestandstaredatthebody.“Thispersonislivingamongus.WemustfindtheChryslersedan.StartingwiththeCCTVfootagefromtowntoseeifitwentbyandwhen.Fromthehighschooltoheretheywould’vedriventhroughtown.”
“Maybe.”Kanerubbedhischin.“Ifhe’slocalhe’dknowwheretheCCTVcamerasaresituatedandtakethebackstreets.Heseemsamitetoocarefultoriskbeingcaughtonfilm.”
ELEVEN
Wolfeexaminedtheareaaroundthevictim.Evenwithoutbloodloss,suchaviolentattackproducedbodilyfluidsspatterandhekepteveryoneatadistanceuntilhe’dtakensamples.Thetindoorwaytotheshaftyieldedaclearresult,andhemadesureWebbertookshotsofthepattern.Fromwhathecouldseeitwasafrenziedattackwithattentionmadetothefaceandeyesofthevictim.Ithappenedpost-mortem,andmighthavebeenanafterthoughttocoverevidenceorthekillerhadanunderlyingmentalproblem.HewoulddiscusshisfindingswithKaneandevencallinJoWells,theFBIbehavioralanalyst,tolookatthevictim.
“Didyouseethis?”Kaneindicatedinsidetheroofofthemineentrance.“That’sspatterfromsomethingbeingtossedandtumbling,throwingoutapinwheelpattern.”HepulledouthisMagliteandscannedthesandybottomoftheentrance.“Nofootprintsorbrushmarks.”HeturnedtoWolfeandsmiled.“Ifigurehethrewthemurderweapondownthemineshaft.”
Wolfemovedcloser.“Youdon’tsay?”Heexaminedthemarks.“Iconcurbuthowfardoesthiscavegobeforeitdropsintooblivion?”
“Themainshaftwouldbecovered.”Kaneedgedinsidekeepingtothewall.“It’sforsafetyreasonsandtheyblockedthemoff,whentheplacewassold.Withluckwe’llfindtheweaponinside.”
Intrigued,Wolfefollowedclosebehind,searchingthegroundwiththebeamofhisMaglite.“There’safreshchipoutofthatbeam,itmusthavericochetoffandbeclosetoyou.”
“Foundit.”Kanecrouchedandshonehislightoverascrewdriver.“Doyouwantsoilsamplesfrominhereaswell?”
Wolfeslippedthescrewdriverintoanevidencebag,labeledit,andwaitedforKane.“Thisisvital.Isurehopewefindprintsonit.”Hemadehiswaybacktothebody.“Addittothechainofcustodybookformeandthere’samilkcrateinthebackofmyvan.Dropitintherewiththesoilsamples.”
“Sure.”Kanetooktheevidencebagsandstrodeoutthemine.
Wolfewentbacktothebodytoexaminethewounds.Hehadlittledoubtthey’dfoundtheweapon.Heleanedincloserandspottedsomethinginthevictim’smouth.HeturnedtoEmily.“Shehassomethingthrustinsidehermouth.I’llopenherjawforyoutopullouttheobject.”HelookedatWebber.“Openanevidencebag,wedon’twantanycontamination.”
Heopenedthejawanditmovedeasily—rigorhadcomeandgone.NowhemadeoutaballoffabricandasEmilylifteditfromthevictim’smouthusingtongs,heshookhisheadindisbelief.“Getthatbagsealed.”HeturnedtoJenna.“Thevictimhasapairofmen’sbriefsinhermouth.Thismeanssomethingtothekiller.It’ssignificant.”
“Whatdoyouthink,Kane?”Jennaturnedandstaredathim.
“Iagree.”Kanemovedcloser.“Thisentiresceneisweird.I’mnotspeculatinguntilWolfehasheronthetable.Iseestrangulationmarksaswell.Nothingmakessensehere.”
“Weirdisright.”Rioshookhishead.“I’dliketoknowwhatwasgoingoninsidetheheadofthiskiller.”
WolfelookedatJenna.“We’llneedDr.Turner’sDNAforcomparisonbutmitochondrialDNAwouldbebetter.Canyoucontacthermother?Whenyouspeaktoeitherofthem,Iwouldadvisetheynotviewthebodyandleavetheidentificationuptome.”
“Hermotherworksatthebeautysalonintown.”Jenna’sexpressionwastroubled.“Ireallywon’tenjoygivingherthebadnews.Iknowwecan’tconfirmanythingbutweallknowthisisLaurieTurner.I’veseenenoughhere.I’llgobythesalonandseeifwecanfindhermother.Willyoubeconductingthepostthisafternoon?”
Intriguedbywhathewasseeingbeforehim,Wolfenodded.“Yeah.Thereissomuchheretoprocess.I’llbestartingonthepreliminaryexaminationassoonaswereturntothemorgue.”Hefrowned.“She’swellintodecomposition.I’llbeabletogetaTODforyouwhenIgetherbacktothelabbutI’dsayfromhertemperatureandstateofrigorshediedaroundthetimesheclimbedintothevehicle.”
“Somaybestrangulation?”Jennarubbedhertemples.
Exasperated,Wolferaisedhiseyebrows.“YouknowdarnwellIcan’tgiveyouacauseofdeathuntilI’vecompletedtheautopsy.It’sobviousshereceivedsometypeofrestrictiontoherneckfromthebruisingbutfromthelackofitaswell,itappearstobewhatI’dusuallyseefromacordtightenedfrombehind.”
“Sorry,Ishouldn’tjumptoconclusions.”JennakickedaclumpofgrassandlookedatKane.“It’sjustthat,shewasinthevehicleandfromwhatI’mseeingisbruisingwayupundertheneck,asifsomeonewasinthebackseatandstrangledherfrombehind.”
“Yeah.”Kanemovedincloser.“Ormorelikelyattackedherfrombehindwhensheclimbedoutofthevehicle.Mrs.Yorkhasaprettygoodrecollectionoftheevent.Shedoesn’tmentionLaurielookinginthebackseat,andpeopleusuallyacknowledgeanotherpersoninavehicle.Whywouldthesecondpersonbeinthebackseat?It’sasedan,mostfriendswouldrideshotgun.”
Wolfelookedfromonetotheother.“UntilIdeterminethecauseofdeath,thisdiscussionisawasteoftime.”HenoddedtowardRio.“Areyoucomingtotheautopsyaswell?”
“Sure,ifI’mnotneededelsewhere.”RioglancedatJenna.“WouldyoulikemetorelieveRowley?”
“You’llneedtofamiliarizeyourselfwiththerunningoftheofficebeforeIletyoudothat.”Jennaclearedherthroat.“Thelocalswillbesuspiciousofyouatfirst.WithRowley,whenhegivesthemadvice,theytakeit.”
“Goodtoknow.”RiomovedawaytospeaktoEmily,whowasbaggingthevictim’shands.
WolfestoodbackandwaitedforEmilytofinishandthenturnedtoJenna.“I’mdonehere.We’llbagherupandgetherintothemorgue.AutopsyisattwobutIneedtheDNAsamplefromMrs.Turneryesterday.”
“I’monit.”JennanoddedandlookedatRio.“Headbacktotheofficeandgettheimagesandfootageuploaded,RowleywillgiveyouthepasswordsandmakesureWolfehasallthedatafirst.We’llbebacksoon.”Athisnod,sheturnedtoKane.“Let’sgohuntdownMrs.Turner.”
Wolfestaredafterher.Jennawaswearingherdetachedfacadeagain.Itwasjustaswell;informingamotherherdaughtermighthavebeenmurderedwasgut-wrenchingbutworstofallwashavingtoinsisttheyrefrainfromviewingthebody.Somewouldalwaysinsistandthentheimageoftheirmutilatedchildremainedwiththemforever.
TWELVE
Pushingdowntheemotionofseeingabrutallymurderedyoungwomandumpedlikegarbage,Jennawalkedaway,tookafewdeepbreathstoclearhermind,andremovedherfacemaskandgloves.SheballedthemupandshovedthemintoapaperbagKanewasholdingoutforher.Asherolledupthetopofthebagandstoweditonthefloorofthebackseatofhistruck,shelookedathimclosely.Hiseyelashescoveredhisexpressionbutsheknewthathisbrainwasworkingovertime.DuringhertimeatQuantico,she’dbecomeclosefriendswithawriterandoftenhe’dgoquietandstareintothedistanceorjustsitanddonothing.Kanedidthesameandsheoftenwonderedwhatwasgoingthroughhismind.
“He’sfine.”Kanesmiledather.“Ijusttoldhimwe’dbeheadingtoAuntBetty’sCafésoonandasit’sMonday,SusiewillhavesomeleftoversfromtheSundayspecialforhim.ShealwaysputssomethingbyforDuke.”
Jennawaitedforhimtoslipbehindthewheel.“Susieisalwayssonicetoeveryone.Iwonderwhysheisn’tmarried?You’dthinkshe’dmeeteveryoneeligibleintownworkingatAuntBetty’s.Theydosayawaytoaman’sheartandallthat.”
“Hmm.”Kanerubbedhischinandthoughtforabeatandthengaveherawink.“Nah.Niceassheis,Iwouldn’ttradeherbaconandeggsforyourtoast.”Hegrinned.“Ithinkit’scutethewayyoutrytocoveruptheburnedbitswithextrabutter.”
Jennachuckled.Itwasgoodtobreakthehorrorofthemorningwithalittlelightteasing.“Awshucks,Dave,nowI’mblushing.”Sheflutteredhereyelashesandpressedonehandtoherheart.
“Thatdoesn’tmeanIexpectyoutocookmebreakfast.”Kane’ssmileflashedwhite.“I’mhappytotakemyturn.Youknowthat,right?”
“Yeah,Dave,Ido.”Jennasighed.“Ihatetobreakthismoodbutwehaveajobtodoandaveryunpleasantone.ThiswillbethesecondtimeI’vehadtogivebadnewstosomeoneinthebeautyparlor,they’llberefusingmeentrysoon.”
“Iknowwhatyoumean.Thispartofthejobstinks.”KaneturnedtheBeastaroundandtheyheadedforthehighway.“I’mhopingthisisaone-offbutifthisguyhitsagain,Ifigureweneedtosearchforakillingground.Abarnorperhapsagarage.”
Jennastaredatavistaofwheatgrass.Asthewindmovedoverit,creatingripples,thelowlandsturnedintoagoldenocean,andshewishedshewasfarawayonabeachsomewhere.Shehadtodraghermindawayfromtheideaofsplashingthroughwavesandfeelingsandbetweenherbaretoesandlistentohim.Shenodded.“Yeah,thescrewdriverwasastrangeweaponofchoice.Withsomanypeoplecarryinghuntingknifes,itseemsstrangetobringascrewdriverouthere.”SheblinkedatKaneasanimageflashedacrosshermind.“I’veoftenseencarpentersorhandymencarryingscrewdriversinbackpocketsorhangingfromautilitybelt.”Shethoughtback.“Infact,I’msureIsawthehandleofonepokingoutofthetoppocketofCoryHughes’workshirt.”
“We’llcheckitoutaftertheautopsy.”Kaneshrugged.“Wolfemighthavefoundprintsortraceevidence.”
“Ihopeso,butHughesdoesn’tdriveaChryslersedan.So,Iguesshe’soffthelist.”JennaleanedbacktryingtocomposethewordsinhermindsheneededtosaytoLaurie’smother.
Ittooktactandacalmdemeanortodeliverdevastatingnews.Shethoughtitthroughandsatisfied,sheglancedatKane.“FirstimpressionsonRio?”
“Smartanduptodate.”KaneturnedontoStantonandheadedtowardtown.“He’ssomewherebetweenRowleyandTyCarter,Ifigure.Tyhasexperienceandcantakeinthewholepictureatacrimesceneasifhe’srelivingitinhishead.Thatcomesfromworkingacrossmanycrimes.Rowleyisstillalittlegreen.He’sgoodbutneedsdirection—buthedoesn’tneedtoproveanythingtome,heissolid.”
Jennatookouthernotebookandflickedthroughthepages.“ItwillbeinterestingtoseeifRio’smemoryisasgoodashesays.I’vereadaboutpeoplelikehimandinstantrecallisamazing.HedoesseemontheballandIlikedhistakeonthecrimescene.Heisright,thisattackonLaurieTurnerseemedverypersonal.Ithastobesomeonesheknows.”
“Yeahitseemsso.”Kanepulledupoutsidethebeautyparlorandstaredather.“Yougonnabeokay?You’vegonesheet-white.”
Jennaunclippedherseatbeltandmoistenedherlips.“Yeah,I’llbefinebutcomeinwithme.Youhaveacalminginfluenceinmostsituationsandyoucancatchherifshefaints.”
“Theregoesmyreputationagain.”KaneremovedhisStetsonandranahandthroughhishairbeforereplacingit.“NowalltheguysintownwillthinkIhaveastylistcutmyhair.I’llneverliveitdown.”
KnowingKanewastryingtomakelightofanawfuljob,shesqueezedhisarmandthenslidoutthetruck.ShefoundMrs.Turnerinthebreakroomsippingcoffee.Aslimwoman,withredlipsandfingernails,andherlonghairtiedupinanelaborateweave,liftedherheadfromamagazinetostareatherasifshe’dgrowntwoheads.“We’rehereaboutyourdaughter,Laurie.”
“Didyoulocateher?”Mrs.TurnerstubbedoutacigaretteinanashtrayonthetableandlookedatJenna.
Jennashookherhead.“We’renotsure.Wefoundthebodyofafemaleearliertoday.ItcouldbeLaurie.Shehasn’tbeenidentified.”
“Abody?Whathappenedtoher?”Mrs.Turner’svoicerosetoapanickedshriek.“Takemetoher.Iwanttoseeher.”
“Wehaven’tdeterminedthecauseofdeath.”Kanemovedintotheroomandclosedthedoorbehindhim.“Sheiswiththemedicalexaminer.I’mafraidyouwon’tbeabletoviewthebody.”
“Thenhowwillyouknowifit’smyLaurie?”Mrs.Turner’seyesfilledwithtearsthatspilleddownhercheeks.“Thiscan’tbehappening.”
Jennasatbesideher.“IneedaDNAsamplefromyou.Aswabfrominsideyourcheekisall.I’llknowinlessthananhour.”
“Okay.”Mrs.Turnerdraggedinashudderingbreath.“It’shisfault.Herfatherrefusedtoallowhertomoveinwithme.HesaidifImadeafuss,he’dhavemedeclaredasanunfitmother.HetellspeopleI’mdead,youknow.”Sheshookherhead.“He’sviolent.Icouldn’tlivewithhimamomentlonger.ItriedtotakeLaurieandrunwithherbutheobtainedacourtorderanddraggedherback.I’vehadnovisitationrights.I’vehadtosneaktimewithher.”SheopenedhermouthforJennatotaketheswab.
Jennaplacedthesampleinsidethetubeandsealedthebag.Shestood.“Youdidtherightthingleavinganabusiverelationship.Hispositionasaschoolcounselorwouldhavemadehimbelievabletothecourts,I’mafraid.Notsomuchnow.WesupportvictimsofspousalabuseinBlackRockFalls.Ifthishadhappenednow,youcouldhavecometomeforhelp.”
“Thankyouandyes,I’veseentheflyers.”Mrs.Turnerstoodandcollectedherpursefromabench.“Ican’tstayheredoingnothing,I’mgoingtotheME’soffice.I’llwaittherefortheresult.”
“Doyouhavesomeonewecancalltogowithyou?”KanehadremovedhisStetsonandwasrollingtheedgewithhisfingers.“Aminister?Closefriend?”
“Yeah,FatherDerry.”Mrs.Turnerpulledabunchoftissuesfromaboxandwipedhereyes.“He’sbeenveryhelpfulthroughallmytroubleswithBob.”
Jennapulledoutacardandhandedittoher.“I’llcallhim.Herearemydetailsifyouneedtocontactme.”ShelookedatMrs.Turnerandthepoorwoman’sgriefsurroundedherlikeaheavyweight.“Waitawhilebeforeyougo,itwilltakeacoupleofhoursbeforetheMEhastheresults.DoyouwantmetoaskFatherDerrytomeetyouhere?Idon’tthinkyoushouldbedriving.”
“Okay.”Mrs.Turnersniffed.“HaveyouinformedBob?”
Jennashookherhead.“Notyet.We’llspeaktohimassoonaswehavetheresultsofthetest.”
“Whycan’tIseemylittlegirl?”Mrs.Turnersatdownheavilyandpeeredatherthroughtears.“Whathappenedtoher?”
“I’mnotabletogiveyouanyinformation,I’mtrulysorry.Atthisstagewedon’tknowforsureit’sLaurie.”Jennasqueezedthewoman’sarm.“Dr.Wolfe,themedicalexaminer,willexplaineverythingoncehehastheresultsofthetest.”
“Okay.”Mrs.Turnerpulledapackofcigarettesfromherpocketandlitupusingasilverlighter.Sheblewoutsmokeinastream.“I’llwaithereforFatherDerry.”
“Sure.”Jennastoodandheadedoutthedoor,pausingatthefrontcounter.“Mrs.Turnerhashadsomebadnews.FatherDerrywillbebysoon,canyoushowhimtothebreakroom?”
“Okay.”Thegirlbehindthecounternoddedlikeabobblehead.
Astheyheadedforthetruck,JennalookedatKane.“She’sinabadway.”
“Yeah,breathinginfumesalldayfromthesalonandsmokingaswell,it’sawondershecanbreatheatall.”Heclimbedintohistruckandstartedtheengine.“Wolfe’sandthenAuntBetty’sforlunch?”
“Yeah.”JennapulledoutherphonetocallFatherDerry.“IftheDNAresultsarebackbythen,we’llgoandinformBobTurneraboutLaurie.Iguessthenitwillbetimefortheautopsy.Canthisdaygetanyworse?”
THIRTEEN
Intheschoolhallway,shepacedupanddownchewingherfingernails.She’dtakentoomanysneersandsmartremarksfromthecheerleadingsquadtolastheralifetime.Yeah,they’ddroppedhertotheBteambutnotforherperformance.They’dcutherforoneoftheirfriends,adaughterofthelocalbankmanager.Sheunderstoodthetruthnow.Howthegirlsontheteammanipulatedpeople,usingthemoneyorpositionoftheirparentstomoveupintheworld.Theflirtingwithherboyfriendandhisresponsehadmadehermad.He’dbeenflatteredandwouldn’tstoptalkingabouthowthisoneorthatonehadhitonhim.Herfingerstrembledatthethoughtofanyofthemasmuchaslookingathim.She’dwonhisheartbutsincethey’dcutherfromthesquad,she’dnoticedhiseyeswanderingtosomeoftheothergirls.Shehadtoputastoptoitandliedtohim.Turningthetablesonthewaytheguysthoughtaboutcheerleadershadn’tbeendifficult.Hisegowashisdownfallandmakinghimbelievetheyhaddevisedaplantostealhimfromherthenpubliclyhumiliatehimhadbeeneasy.Herplanhadworked.
Hewasincrediblyvainandsogoodlookingthegirlsatschoolidolizedhim.Hewalkedwithaswaggerbutshecontrolledhimnow.Theideaofstealingtheplayer’ssoiledbriefsfromthelockerroomwhentheteamwerebusyintheshowershadbeenpuregeniusbutconvincinghimtotakethemhadbeendifficult.Ashewalkedtowardheratmorningbreak,shedraggedhimintoaquietcornerandkissedhim.“Didyougetthem?”
“Yeah.”Hisbrowfurrowedintoafrown.“Youknowiftheycatchmedoingthis,they’regoingtothinkI’mkinkyorsomething.Whydoweneedsweatyshortsandhowlongdoyoufigurewecangetawaywiththisbeforesomeonestartscomplainingtheirclothesaremissing?”
Shetooktheplasticbaghehandedherandthrustitintoherbackpack.“Youdidn’ttouchthem,didyou?Youpickedthemupwiththebag?”
“Yeah,Ididlikethelasttime.”Hebrushedthehairawayfromherfaceandkissedheragain.“Tellme,whyyouneedanotherpair,itgoeswaypastpeoplethinkingLauriewasaslut,doesn’tit?”
“It’sthesamereasonwewrappedherinplasticandworegloves.”Sheranherhandthroughhishair.“DNA.Thiswaythecopswillbelievesomeoneelsekilledher.”
“Thatdoesn’tseemfair,blamingsomeoneelse.”Helookedworried.
“That’swhyIneededanotherpair.Ineedtokillanotherone.”Shesmiledathim.“IwatchedyourfacewhenIstrangledLaurie.YouloveditandI’vepickedoutthenextone.We’llstuffthebriefsinhermouthtothrowoffthecops.TwodifferentsetsofDNAfoundwiththebodieswillconfusethem.”Shelookedathimandgiggled.“I’lltakeoutafewofthesquadandthey’llbebeggingmetocomeback.”Shetouchedhischeek.“NowgoandbenicetoBecky.Nottoonicenow.It’stheparadetomorrowandeveryonewillbeoccupied.We’llneedaplantogethersomewheresecluded.There’sanemptyhouseintown,Iwaswalkingbyandsawthelastownerleavethekeyabovethefrontdoor.We’llgothere.Alltheblindsaredown,itwillbedarkinside,andIcanhiderealeasy.TakeherupstairsandI’llbeinsidewaiting.I’llleavethebackdooropenandhaveeverythingready.Beckydeservesthis,I’veheardhertalkingandshereallywantstomakeyoulooklikeajerk,soshe’llbeputtyinyourhands.”
“Whatdoyouwantmetosaytoher?”
“Hmm,letmesee.”Shetwirledherhairaroundherfingersandthoughtforabeat.“Sayyou’retryingtoavoidme,thatIfollowyou,somethinglikethat.We’llneedanicequietplacetogetherintoyourvehicle.”Shetappedherlip.“Iknow.Askhertomeetyouinthelibrary.It’sopenonTuesdaysuntilten.Ifsheshows,makeherbelieveI’mthere,stalkingyouandthensneakouttotheparkinglot.Sayyou’llgiveheraridesomeplaceyoucanmakeoutwithher,withoutmeknowing.”
“Whatyougonnadotoher?”Hetrembledwithexcitementagainsther.“Lasttime,youkindachangedlikeinagoodway.Watchingyoumademyheartraceandafterwhenwemadeout,withherdeadeyeswatchingus,itwasincredible.”
“Itwillbeasurprise.”Shekissedhimhard.Aftershe’dkilledtwoorthreemorecheerleaders,he’dneverdreamofleavingher.Shesmiled,enjoyingthepowershehadoverhim,andthiswasjustthestart.
FOURTEEN
AsJennaandKaneheadedbacktotheoffice,WolfecalledwiththeresultsoftheDNAsample.ThedeadgirlwasLaurieTurner.JennacalledoffthesearchatonceandheadedtoDr.BobTurner’sresidence.Theyparkedoutsideandthenwalkedtothedoor.HerknockingwasansweredafterafewminutesandDr.Turnerglaredather.Jennamethisgaze.“WehavesomenewsaboutLaurie.”
“She’sdead,isn’tshe?Mywifecalledmeandtoldmeyou’dfoundabody”Turner’seyesflashedwithanger.
JennaglancedatKane.“I’mafraidsheis,yes.”
“Igatheredasmuchasyouwenttomyex-wifetoobtainaDNAsample.Itwouldhavebeenmoreprofessionaltohavecontactedmefirst.”Dr.Turner’svoicebecamelikegranite.“It’samazinghowfastyoufoundLaurie’smother,I’vebeenlookingforJeanetteforyears.She’llblamemeforLaurie’sdeathbutthensheblamesmeforeverything.ThatwomanwasalwaysabadinfluenceonLaurie.”Heclearedhisthroat.“Nowcanyouleave,Sheriff?Idon’twantyourcondolences;Ihavefuneralarrangementstomake.”Heslammedthedoorinherface.
JennaexchangedanamazedlookwithKane.“IsthatthesameDr.Turnerwhocalled911.Wow!That’ssomechangearoundinbehavior.”
“Peoplereactdifferentlytobadnews.”Kaneraisedaneyebrow.“It’snotyourfault.”
Jennachewedonherfingers.“Iguessweshould’vetoldhimwe’dfoundabodyatleast.”
“Wecouldn’taskeitherparenttophysicallyidentifythevictim.”Kaneshrugged.“WeidentifiedthevictimthroughDNAtopreventtheparentsbeingdistressed.Wedidn’tknowforsureitwasLaurieTurner.”
Jennasighed.“It’sdonenow.”Sheclimbedinsidethetruck.“Isurecoulddowithastrongcupofcoffee.”
“Sure.”Kaneheadedbacktotown.
InsideAuntBetty’sCafé,thewonderfularomaoffreshpieandcoffeeclosedaroundJennalikeawarmhug.Therewassomethingspecialaboutthecafé,thenamesaiditallreally.Thedécorandhomelyatmospherebroughtbackmemoriesofherchildhoodsittingonhergrandma’slapandeatingcookiesfreshfromtheoven.Kanewasrighttobringherhereafteragruelingmorning.Yeah,theycould’vecollectedtakeoutandeateninherofficebutsheneededatimeouttogetherheadrightbeforeanotherstressfulafternoon.Afterfinishinghermeal,shesippedhercoffeeandallowedhermindtowander.
Dr.TurnerhadtakenthenewswithoutblinkinganeyeandtalkedaboutarrangementsforLaurie’sfuneral,whichwasalittlestrangeconsideringhowhe’dactedthefirsttimethey’dmet.Ithadbeenlikespeakingtotwodifferentpeople.Ifhesufferedmoodswings,hewouldbethelastpersonshe’dconsidercapableofadvisingtroubledkids.AssoonasKanehadplacedhisemptycuponthetable,Jennapushedtoherfeet.“Let’sgo.Ineedtodropbytheoffice.”
Astheydrovethroughtown,shescannedhernotesontheinvestigation.Whenshereturnedtotheoffice,she’dneedtosetherdeputiestowork.TheyhadtogothroughLaurie’slaptopandshe’dbeinterestedtoknowifWolfehadhadtimetocheckoutherphone.SheglancedupasKaneslowedtoavoidagroupofpeoplespillingontotheroad.Whenhehithissiren,awomanclutchingababytoherchestburstthroughthecrowdandrantowardthem.“Whatnow?”
“Helpme,please.”Thewoman’slongblondehairwasamess,tearshadtrackedmascaradownhercheeks.Inherarmsababyscreamed.ThewomanhammeredonKane’sdoor.“Don’tlethimhitmeagain.”
“Iwon’tlethimnearyou.”KaneturnedtoJenna.“Orders?”
Jennaassessedthesituation.“Takecareofher.I’llgoseewhatthisbunchofcowardsaredoing,standingbyandwatchingawomanbeingassaulted.Callforbackup.”
“Jenna—”Kanestaredather.
“Don’tsayaword.ThetownsfolkneedtoknowIcandealwithtroublealone.Iknowyoucareaboutmysafety.”Jennaglaredathim.“Mytown,myproblem.Letmedomyjob,Dave.”
“Okay.”Heheldupbothhandsinsurrender.“Godoyourjobbutjustremember,peopleliketoseeastrongleader,notonewhoistryingtoprovetheycanknockaguyoffhisfeet.”Hesmiledather.“Evenifyoucan.”Hewavedahandtowardthegroupofmencheeringtheoffenderon.“Thenyouhavethecrowd.Iftheystepin,I’mthereandnothingyousaywillstopme.That’swhatI’mpaidtodo,Jenna.”
“Yourfirstpriorityisthewomanandherbaby.”JennaclimbedoutthetruckandpushedherwaythroughthegroupofmenspillingfromAntlers,thenewtavernintown.Shedidn’trecognizeanyofthemaslocalsandastheyallhadthesameclubjackets—clearly,theybelongedtoagroupofmenonahuntingtriporsimilar.Sheraisedhervoice.“What’sgoingonhere?”
“Nothin’foryoutobelookin’at,Sheriff.”Amanwithasmugexpressionsteppedawayfromhisfriends.“It’saprivatematter.”Hewipedbloodfromhisknucklesontohisjeans.“Ain’tit,boys?”
Aftermurmuringtheiragreement,alleyesturnedtoher.Manyofthemenhadgrinsfromeartoear.Indignant,Jennastraightened.“Assaultingpeopleinmytownisanoffense.”
“Shehitmefirst.”Themanrubbedhischeek.“IwasjustshowingtheboysherehowIdealwithawifewhojustwon’tlisten.ItoldherI’dbeawaythisweekandshegoesandfollowsmehere.Thenshetakesoffensetomechattingwiththegirlbehindthebar.Imean—”heopenedhishandsoutwideandflashedheralop-sidedsmile“—whatwomanwouldn’twantapieceofthis?”Helookedaroundashisfriendslaughed.“Igaveherababytokeepherquietbutshedon’tstayquiet.Followin’mehere,checkinguponme.Thatmakesmelookweak.”
Jennashookherhead.“I’mtakingyoudowntownforalittlechat.Thetownsfolkhereaboutsdon’tlikemenwhobeatontheirwives.I’llgetmydeputiestospeaktothewitnesses.”
“Sheain’tgonnapresschargesagainstme.”HeglaredatJenna.“Anddoyoufigureyou’restrongenoughtocuffme?”Hepointedtohersidearm.“Oh,that’sright,you’llholdaguntomyhead.”Helookedaroundathisfriendsandgrinned.“Getoutyourphones,boys,policebrutalitycomingmyway.”HisgazeshiftedbacktoJenna.“I’llhaveyourbadge,lady.Youdon’tknowwhoyou’redealingwith.”
Peoplehadcollectedonthesidewalk.Tooneside,shemadeoutKanegettingthewomanandherbabyinsidehistruck.HelookedoverthetopoftheBeastandraisedbotheyebrows.Jennagavehimaslightshakeofherhead,unbeltedherdutybelt,andhandedittothelocalgunstoreowner.“Okay,nowit’sjustyouandme.”Sheshrugged.“What’syourname?”
“JohnLawandIain’tgoingnowhere.”Hestoodhisground,handsonhips,grinningather.“It’seasyforyouhidingbehindabadge.IfImakethewrongmove,you’llhavemeforresistingarrest.”
NoticingRowleypushingthroughthecrowd,shesmiledathim.“Here,holdtheseformeplease.”ShepeeledoffherjacketandhandedRowleyherbadge.“There,thatmakesuseven.”
“Even?”Lawlaughedather.“Thebadgeandcoatdon’tmakeyouasheriff,thetownmakesyouthesheriff.Whatever.Stayoutofmybusiness.”Heturnedtowalktowardapickup.
Jennachargedafterhimandgrabbedonearm.“I’marrestingyouforassaultingyourwife.”Shepulledhisarmupbehindhimandreachedfortheother,cuffsinhand.
Inaninstant,he’dtwistedaround.Theslapcaughtheracrossthecheeklikeawhipandshetastedblood.Sheduckedhissecondblowandcaughttherageonhisface.Heplannedtostrikeheragainandthatwasnotgoingtohappen.Theyearsoftrainingshe’ddonewithKaneintheearlyhoursofthemorninghadpreparedherformenlikeLaw.Theylikedtodominateandcontrol.Ratherthangetmad,everythingaroundherwentintoslowmotion.OutofthecornerofhereyeshecouldseeKanerestrainingRowley.SheduckedthenextslapandLaw,redintheface,cameatherlikearagingbull,hisfistsclenched.
Perfect.Kanehadtaughtherhowtodisablebyaiminginjusttherightplace.ShespunandkickedhittingLaw’skneecapwiththeheelofherboot.Onestrikeandhefellintoapileofpain.SheturnedandlookedatRowleyandKane.“Cuffhim.”Shereadhimhisrights.“WhenyougethiminacellcallDocBrownbutIwanthimchargedwithassaultingalawofficer,resistingarrest,andspousalabuse.”
“Yes,ma’am.”RowleycuffedLawanddraggedhimlimpingtohiscruiser.
“Youbrokemyleg.I’mgoingtosueyou.Thisispolicebrutality.”Law’sfacecontorted.“You’redead,lady.Myfriendshaveeverythingonfilm.”
Jennacollectedherthingsandbuckledonherdutybelt.“That’sgoodandsodomanyofthelocaltownsfolk.Thejudgewillseeyouresistingarrestandstrikingme.”Shetouchedhercheekandranhertongueoverthesplitinsidehermouth.“Youcameatmefirst,Law,adefenselesswoman.Ijustdefendedmyself.”SheturnedtoRowley.“Gethimoutofmysight.”
“Doyouwantmetocollectthephonefootage?”Riowasatherside.
Jennashookherheadandscannedthecrowd.“No,I’lldothat.Iknowmanyofthepeoplewhofilmedit.TakeMrs.LawandherbabytoHerBrokenWings.It’sarefugeforbatteredwomen.Twostreetsupontheleft.Getherstatement.Explain,we’llneedhertotestifyincourtorhe’llwalk.”Sheturnedtothecrowdandraisedhervoice.“I’llneedthefootage.”
Aspeoplecameforward,herheartsankatthesightofDeniCrawford,theimpossiblyrudeBlackwaterNewsreporterheadingherwaywithasatisfiedsmile.Talkaboutbeingintherightplaceattherighttime,thebusybodyreporterhadcaughttheentireepisodeonfilm.Sheturnedtofaceher.“Nocomment.”
“Oh,comeon,Sheriff.”Crawfordheldoutthemicrophone.“YoumusthavesomethingtosaytothepeopleofBlackRockFalls?”Shesmiledatthecamera.“It’snoteverydayweseeasheriffinaction,whileherdeputiesstandbyanddonothing.”
Refusingtorisetothebait,Jennalookedstraightintothecamera.“InBlackRockFallswedon’ttoleratespousalabuseorbullyingsopleasedonatetoHerBrokenWingsFoundationandhelpthoseinneed.Thankyou.”SheturnedherbackonCrawfordandaddressedthecrowd.“Okaywhofilmedtheincident?”Shetookouthercards.“Emailacopytomeplease.”
Asshemovedbetweenthepeople,shenoticedKanecomingoutofAntlerscarryingsomething.Hestoppedathistruckandleanedagainstthedoorwatchingher.Withallthefootageemailedtoherandnamestakenofwitnesses,shemadeherwaybacktotheBeast.ShelookedatKane’ssternexpressionbuthesaidnothingandjusthandedheratowelfilledwithice.Shetookitfromhimandpresseditagainstherthrobbingcheek.Nowtheadrenalinhadwornoff,herfaceached.Shelookedathim.“HowisMrs.Law?”
“Frightenedandhurting.”Kanefrowned.“Herhusbandhasbeenbeatingonherforsometime.Iwantedtotendherinjuriesbutshewantedtofeedthebabyandtoldmetoleaveheralone.”
JennawatchedasRioescortedthewomantohiscruiser.“Let’sgobeforethatnewsreporterfilmsanythingelse,I’mdoing.”SheclimbedintotheBeastandwaitedforKanetogetbehindthewheelandstarttheengine.“IsawyouholdingRowleyback.ThanksforlettingmedealwiththesituationbutIwasn’texpectingittobealloverthenewstonight.”
“Youmadeitperfectlyclearyouhadapointtoprove.”Kanewasstaringstraightahead.“Thebigloudmouthbullywhobeatuponhiswifeneededtakingdownapeg.Beingknockedoffhisfeetbyawomanyoursizeinfrontofhisfriendswilltakealongtimetolivedown,especiallywhenitmakesthenews.It’sjustaswellhiswifeisleavinghim.He’dtakeitoutonherforsure.”Hepulledintohisspaceoutsidethesheriff’sdepartmentandturnedtolookather.“It’sdifficult,Jenna.”Hepointedtohischest.“Inhere,seeingLawputhishandsonyoumademewanttotearhimapart,butinhere—”hepointedtohishead“—Iknewyoucouldtakecareofyourselfbutwhenyougaveupyourweapon—Jesus,Jenna.”Heshookhishead.“Ihadpalpitations.”
Jennasmiledathim.“Youre-trainedmewell,andI’matmypeakbutIhavetoadmit,knowingyouweretherewatchingmybackmadeitawholeloteasier.”
FIFTEEN
Headthrobbing,Jennawalkedintothesheriff’sdepartmenttofindAtohiBlackhawkwaitingforher.Maggiehadsuppliedhimwithcoffeeandsandwiches.Herfriendlookedwearyandshesmiledathim.“Thankyousomuchforsearchingallnight.WefoundabodyoutattheoldminesandWolfehasjustconfirmedit’sLaurieTurner.”
“That’ssomewayfromwhereIfoundherbackpack.ItbelongstoLaurie.Ithasatagwithhernameonit.”Blackhawkliftedalargeevidencebagfrombesidehischairandhandedittoher.“IdecidedtoridemytrailbikethroughtheforestanditwasonthetrailwesearchedyesterdayabouthalfamilefromStanton.Imarkedtheplacewithtapeandhavethecoordinates.”Hehelduphisphone.“Itookshotsofthetrailandallaroundbutwhoeverdroppedittheredidn’tleaveatrace.I’llforwardthemtoeveryonenow.”
Jennastaredatthebackpack.She’dtakeittoWolfewhentheywenttotheautopsy.“We’relookingforaprimarycrimesceneanditmaybeclosetowhereyoufoundthis,we’llgoandcheckitout.Didyoutouchitorgothroughit?”
“Nah.”Blackhawkshookhishead.“Ihadapocketfullofglovesandevidencebagswithme,incasewefoundanythingduringthesearch.”Hesippedhiscoffeeandregardedherwithinterest.“Whathappenedtoyourface?”
Jennaclosedthedoorandsatinherofficechair.“Somecrazywifebeater.He’sinthecellsandwillbeonhiswaytothecountyjailassoonashe’scharged.”
“Howdidyourdeputiesallowthistohappen?”Hisbrowneyesflashedwithanger.“Menwhobeatonwomenarecontemptible.”
Surprisedbyhisconcern,shesmiled.“I’mfine.Iwantedtohandlehimmyselfbutitwasalittledifficult.IorderedKaneandRowleytostanddown.”ShestoodandfilledacoffeecupandthensearchedthedrawerforTylenol.“RioistakinghertoHerBrokenWings,they’llmakesureshegetsthebestofcareandassistance.”Shetookhercoffeebacktothedesk.“HaveyoumetZacRioyet?”
“Ihave.”Blackhawknoddedslowly.“HeseemsefficientbutI’dsayyouhaveanotheroverqualifieddeputyinyourteam.He’sambitious.Haveyouconsideredhemightgoagainstyouinthenextelection?Iknowthat’syearsawaybutbythattimehe’llbewellestablishedintown.”
Jennatossedthetowelandiceintothesinkandlookedathim.“That’swaytoofarintothefutureformetoworryaboutandmyheadisfilledwiththiscase.”Sheindicatedtothewhiteboard.“We’vegonefrommissinggirltomurdervictiminthelastfewhours.AssoonasRiogetsback,hecanhandlethepressbecauseassoonastheygetwindthatIcalledoffthesearchthey’llknowwe’vefoundabody.”
“Doyouknowhowshedied?”Blackhawkturnedhishataroundinhishandsandlookedather.“Ididn’tseeanybloodspatter,nothingatallaroundherbackpack.Ididagoodreconofthearea.”
HavingbeenwithBlackhawkonasearchintheforestmanyatime,shehadseenhisskillsfirsthand.Asuperbtracker,hewasanassetandgavehistimefreely,refusingpaymentasifitwasaninsult.Shevaluedhisfriendshiponalllevels,she’dtrusthimwithherlife.Jennanodded.“Wewon’tknowuntiltheautopsy.Thisoneisdifficult,maybestrangulationwithpost-mortemwounds.Theautopsyisattwo,I’llknowmorethen.”
AbriefknockcameonherdoorandKanewalkedinsidewithDukeathisheelsandnoddedatBlackhawk.“I’vecheckedoutLaurie’slaptop,itwasn’tpassword-protected.There’snothingthereatallunusual.Thefriendswe’vespokentoalreadymakeupthesocialmediacontacts.Heremailsareverygeneral.Evenhersearchhistoryisbasedonherassignments.Nocluesthereatall.Notevenanastycomment.”
JennastoodandaddedinformationtothewhiteboardandthenturnedtoKane.“Atohifoundherbackpack.We’lltakeittoWolfetoexamine.”
“Yeah,Ireadthefile.”Kanewenttothecounterandpouredhimselfacupofcoffee.“Yousureyouweren’tacopinapastlife?”
“Me?”Blackhawkchuckled.“Whoreallyknowswhichwaytheirspiritguidehasledthem?Although,Idon’tlikeputtingmenincages,soperhapsnot.”Heshrugged.“ButifIsawarabiddog,I’dtakeitdownwithoutasecondthought.”HegrinnedatKane.“Don’tlooksoconcerned,EagleEye,Ihavenoplanstostartmurderingpeople.ItisnotinmynatureandIfinddiggingholestoomuchofachore.”
JennalookedupasRowleyandRioarrivedatherofficedoor.Shewavedthemin.“Whatdoyouhaveforme?”
“Mrs.LawisinsafehandsatHerBrokenWingsShelivesoutatLouanandthey’vearrangedforhertogoandcollectherbelongingswhileherhusbandisincustody.”Riohandedheradocument.“Shegavemeastatementandwillpresschargesforassault.Thesocialworkersattheshelterhaveeverythingundercontrol,they’veevenarrangedaprobonolawyertorepresentherifnecessary.”
“Yeah,wetookthechargesheetandevidencetodatetotheDAalongwithMrs.Law’sstatementandours;wehadenoughtoobtainanarrestwarrant.”Rowleylookedpleasedwithhimself.“TheDAwantsstatementsfromyouandKaneandanywitnesseswillingtocomeforwardtosupporthiscase.Lawwillbeheldincountywaitingforabailhearing.Theyareontheirwaytocollecthim.”
Gladshehadsuchefficientdeputies,Jennasmiled.“Goodtoknow.We’llgetthestatementsbeforeweleavefortheautopsyandyoucandropthemintotheDA’soffice.I’mhappyMrs.LawandherbabyarebeingcaredforinBlackRockFalls.She’llhaveafreshstarthere.”Sheclaspedherhandsaroundhercoffeecup.“We’reduetoattendanautopsyattwo.Rowley,IneedyoutostartchasingdownthewitnessesintheLawcase.Thecontactdetailsareinthefiles.Itwouldbeeasierifyoucouldcallthemandaskthemtocomeintomakeastatementandthenyou’llbehereforthetransferofourprisoner.”SheglancedatRio.“Rioisattendingtheautopsybuthe’llbebacktorelieveyouassoonaspossible.”
“Ratherhimthanme.”Rowleyranahandthroughhisunrulyhair.“Thesmellofthatplacemakesmesicktomystomach.”Heswipedattheendofhisnose.“I’llgetatit.”Heheadedforthedoor.
“I’llneedyoutosignoffonthemediareleaseplease,Sheriff.”Rioplacedasheetofpaperonherdesk.
Jennareadthroughitandwasimpressedbythepresentation,whichgavethebarestdetails,andnoneoftheevidencefoundatthescene.“Icanseeyou’vewrittenafewoftheseinyourtime.Greatjob.AskMaggieforourmediacontactdetailsandcallitin.”Shesignedthebottomofthepageandhandeditbacktohim.
Takingafewsecondstoputherthoughtsinorder,JennawaitedforBlackhawktofinishhiscoffeeandthensmiledathim.“Ireallyappreciateyourhelp.Thebackpackmightgiveupvaluableevidence.”
“Anytime.”BlackhawklookedatJennaandstood.“I’monlyacallawayifyouneedme.”Heyawned.“I’mheadinghometogetsomerest.Idon’tenvyyournextjob,Jenna.IhopeShanecangiveyouacluetofindingthiskiller.”HepushedhishatonhisheadandfollowedRiooutthedoor.
Jennastaredafterthem.“That’sonedrawbackaboutbeingsheriff.”Shegrimaced.“Idon’thaveanexcusetoavoidanautopsy.”ShemetKane’scombatface.Hewasalreadyzoningouthisemotions.“Although,thiscaseisintriguing.”Shesighed.“Initsownhorrificway.”
SIXTEEN
Steelingherselfforthegruesometaskahead,Jennatriedtoignorethesmellofthemorgueandthecoldthatseepedthroughherclothes.SheheardKaneclearhisthroatandRio’sbootsclickonthetileastheywalkedinaprocession,herinthelead,totheexaminationroomwiththeglowingredlightoutside.Herdeputies’facesweregrimastheyshedtheirjacketsandsuitedupfortheautopsy.Theairfilledwithmentholatedsalveandglovessnappedintoplace.Onceeveryonewasready,shescannedhercardatthedoorandtheyallsteppedinside.Asusual,Wolfehadcompletedthepreliminaryexaminationbeforetheyarrived.ScreensheldX-rayimagesandanassortmentofresultsfromvarioustestshe’dalreadyconductedintheirabsence.
TheywalkedtostandalittletothesideofWolfe,Emily,andColtWebber,topeeratthevictim’sbodyonagurneyunderthebrightlight.Astheyturnedtolookatthem,shehelduptheevidencebag.“AtohifoundLaurie’sbackpack,wheredoyouwantit?”
“EmilyandColtwillgothroughitinanotherroom.”Wolfewavedthemaway.“Iwantthisroomascleanaspossible.”
JennahandedWebbertheplasticbagandsmiledatEmilybehindhermask.“Lastsemester,youmustbeexcited.What’snext?”
“Tons.I’mplanningoncompletinganacceleratedmedicaldegree,thenI’llhaveatleasttwoyearsofresidencybeforeIcanapplytobecertified.There’satonmorestudyingtodoifIwanttospecializeinforensicpathology.Rightnow,I’mmoreconcernedaboutthepostgradfinals.”Emilyshrugged.“I’musuallyconfidentgoingintoexaminationsbutthismeanssomuchtome,I’malittlenervous.”
“Sometimesthat’sagoodthing.”Kanewiggledhiseyebrows.“Overconfidencecanbeacurse.”
“Youalwayssaysomethingtomakemefeelbetter.”EmilysqueezedhisarmandthenhurriedafterWebber.
“Beforewestart…”WolfemovedhisattentiontoJenna.“ThelasttextLauriemadewasatfiveonSaturdayevening.Iwentthrougheverythinggoingbackamonth,itisallgeneralchat.TheonlyinterestingtextbetweenherandWyattCooper,theboyfriend,wasabouthimbeingannoyedabouttheattentionCoryHughes,themaintenanceman,wasgivingher.Itwasthentheybrokeup.Laurietoldhimshedidn’tlikejealousyandblockedhiscalls.”
“That’smotive.”Jennaconsideredtheinformation.“Cooperwasatthepracticeandcould’vefollowedher.Ifsheneededaride,she’dlikelygetinhisvehicle.”ShelookedatKane.“We’llneedtoseewhathedrives.”SheturnedbacktoWolfe.“Whatelsedoyouhaveforme?”
“Wehavesometraceevidence.”Wolfeindicatedtothescreen.“Themen’sbriefsareagenericbrandanduntraceablebuttheyheldsignificantamountsofDNA.WealsofoundatraceofforeignsalivaonthescrewdriverandextractedagoodDNAsample.”Hemovedtothescreen.“Thesamplesareunrelatedtothevictimandeachother.”Hepuffedoutalongsigh.“Bothofcourseareuselessunlesswefindamatch.AsCooperandHugheshadsomeinvolvementwithLaurie,I’dstarttherebutitwillbeahugetask.I’dsuggestyoucallinJoWellsandaskifBobbyKalocanrunthesamplesthroughtheFBIdatabases.”
“It’sabitearlytocallintheFBI.”Kanefrowned.“We’llgetthosesamplesandhuntdownafewsuspectsbeforewecontactthemsowedon’tlooklikecompletejerks.”
“It’syourcall.”Wolfewentbacktostaringattheresults.“ThiscaseiscomplicatedandI’dhavethoughtyou’dappreciatesomeinputfromJo.She’safriend,shewon’tpulltheFBIcardifyoudon’tspecificallyaskhertointerveneinthecase.”
“Fine.”Kanedidn’tlookamused.“I’llcallherifIcan’tfigureoutthisguy.”
Excitedbytheevidence,Jennastaredatthescreen.“So,wemayhavetwosuspects?”
“Yeah,there’sachance.”Wolfe’sgrayeyesflickedtoher.
“Ifigurethesalivawasanerrorandthebriefsamessage.”Rioexaminedtheresults.“HelookedatKane.“Whatdoyouthink?”
“I’llbelisteningtowhatWolfehastosaybeforemakinganydecisionsorrunningtotheFBIforhelp.”Kaneshrugged.“Seemstomethekillerswenttoextrememeasuresnottoleaveanytraceevidence.”
Jennaliftedhergazetotheimagesonthescreen.Wolfehadphotographedbothsidesofthebody.Shelookedathim.“We’reinterruptingyou,pleasegoon.”
“Okay.”WolfeusedaremotetobringupanothersetofX-rays.“There’snosignofbluntforcetraumaoutsidetheperimeterofthestabwounds.Asyoucanseeofthetwenty-twostabwoundsontheface,eyes,andtorso,inten,wehaveevidenceofdamagetotheunderlyingbone.Thehyoidboneisfracturedbutthelarynxisn’tcrushed.”Heturnedtolookatthem.“ItooksamplesofbloodandI’mrunningatoxscreenasroutinebutItestedspecificallyforavarietyofsedativestoruleoutthedaterapescenario.IfoundnotraceofanysedativeinhersystemandIfoundnolatentprintsonherbody.”
Jennaexaminedthebody.Apartfromthestabwoundsandneckbruising,thebodyonlyhadafewsuperficialbruises.Therewerenodefensivewounds.“Anysignofsexualactivity?”
“No.”Wolfewalkedtothebody.“Ihavealreadymentionedthelivormortisbutasyoucanseefromtheextentinthelowerregionsofthebody,shewasinasittingpositionforsometime,perhapseighthoursormorebeforebeingrelocated.Ifoundsomethingnotableaswell.”HelookedatKane.“Ifyoucouldhelpmeturnherover?”
“Sure.”Kanemovedthebodywithgreatcareandgentleness.
TheuneasedrainedawayfromJennaastheneedtoknowwhathappenedtoLaurieTurnertookprecedenceandshemovedcloser.“Oh,Iseeit.There’sacreaseonherback.”
“Itookswabsasdecomposingskincollectstraceelementslikeamagnet.Thereweredustparticles,nothingspecialbutIfoundtracesofpolyethylene.Inmyopinionshewaswrappedinplasticorwasatleastlyingonplastic.Theplasticsheetwascreasedandcausedthemarkonherback.Thiswouldaccountforthecleancrimesceneandthelightcoatingofsandysoilonthebodyatthescene.”
Jennanodded,seeingthesceneunfoldinherhead.“Thekillerwrappedherinplasticandtookhertothemines,wherehestabbedherpost-mortemasyou’veestablished.Thatwouldaccountforthebodilyfluidsspatterandthenaftertossingthescrewdriverdownthemineshaft,herolledheroutoftheplastic,coveredhistracks,andheadedforthe
“Hey,winditbacksome.”KanewasexaminingthebackofLaurie’sneck.He’dliftedthehairandwaspeeringatthecrossedovermarkontheneck.“Shewassittingforsometimeonplastic,butwhojustsitsonaplasticsheetandwaitstobestrangled.”HeglancedatWolfe.“I’veseenthisbefore,it’saclassicattackfrombehind.”Hefollowedthemarktounderthejawbone.“It’sunderthechin.Ifigurewe’vetwopeopleinvolved,onedriverandthekillerinthebackseat,perhapshiding.Laurieclimbsinandthedriverpullsaway.Theseconddropsacordaroundherneckandcrossesitover,pullingherupandovertheseat.Maybeshehadherseatbeltonandwaspinned.”HeliftedhisattentionbacktoWolfe.“Didyoufindanytraceunderhernails?”
“No,andshe’dhaveblackedoutinabouttenseconds.”WolfemotionedforKanetoassisthimrollingherontoherback.“Thestabwoundsareallinflictedbythesameinstrument.Theydifferindepth,whichwouldindicatetheattackcontinueduntiltheytired.Themainconcentrationistothefaceandbreastareas.”
“I’veseensomethingsimilar.”Riowasstandingarmsfoldedoverhischestandleaningagainstacounter.“Itwasacasewhereaguy’swifemurderedhisgirlfriendbutsheusedakitchenknife.Thesameattackpattern,faceandchest.”
Jennanodded.“That’sgoodtoknow,sowecouldbelookingataspurnedloverperhaps?”ShestaredatKane.“Although,sheseemstooyoungtobeinvolvedinalovetriangle.”
“Wecouldbelookingatafemalekiller.”Kanenarrowedhisgaze.“Averyjealouswoman.”
MillingoverthesituationJennanodded.“Maybetwofemalesuspects.”ShestaredatKane.“She’dmorelikelytaketheofferofaridefromawomanoreventwo.”
“Morelikesheknewthedriver.”Kaneshrugged.“That’stheimpressionofthewitnessandfromhercleardescriptionsofeverythingelse,I’dsayshedoesn’tmissmuch.”
“Gettingbacktotheautopsy…”Wolfepulleddownthemictorecordhisfindings.“WehavethebodyofLaurieTurner,agesixteenyearsandtwomonths.Caucasian,browneyesandhair.Sheisaverageheightandweightforherage.Theinjuriestotheuppertorsoandfacenumbertwenty-twoandareconsistentinsizeandshapeofascrewdriverfoundatthescene.TraceevidenceonthescrewdriverisamatchforLaurieTurnerandforeignDNAwaslocatedinanoverlaysuggestingitarrivedafterthecessationoftheattack.”HeturnedoffthemicandlookedatJennaandherteam.“I’llpauseforquestionsbutIneedtokeeptheaudiorecordundisturbedasI’llneedtomakeanexactcopyofmyfindingsforthereport.”
Jennatookastepbackastheexaminationofthebodyfollowed.Thiswasthepartthatusuallycausedeventhemostexperiencedlawenforcementofficerstobuckle.Organsremoved,examined,weighed,andsamplesofstomachcontentstakenmadeherglanceawayafewtimestocatchherbreath.Shedidn’thavetoworryaboutKane,heseemedtotakeeverythinginhisstrideandwasassistingWolfe,butherinterestwanderedtoRio.Hehadsurprisedhersofar.Onthejob,hisinputwasintelligentandheknewhisstuff.Itwasnodifferentinthemorgue.Hisgazehadn’tshiftedfromtheautopsy,asifhewasmentallyfilingeverydetail,andperhapshewas.HeshowedakeeninterestinhiseyesandwaslisteningintentlytoWolfe’severyword.Forayoungman,hehadknowledgebeyondhisyearsandasapersonshelikedhim.He’dfitintotheteamjustfineandforhertomakethatjudgmentonhisfirstdaywasremarkable.HerattentionsnappedbacktoWolfethemomenthestartedtalkingagain.
“Stabwoundsvaryindepthandangle.Thedepthisfromtwoandahalfinchestohalfaninchonthechestandtherearetwofour-inchincisionsonthelowertorso.”WolfeglancedupatJenna.“Icounttenwoundstothechestandlowertorsoandtwelvewoundstotheface.”HeturnedoffthemicasEmilyandWebbercamebackintotheroom.“Ahgood.Emily,takeoverandcompletethesutures.”Heturnedonthemic.“Myconclusionisthatcauseofdeathishomicidebyasphyxiationduetostrangulationbyanunknownsubject.Allotherinjurieswereinflictedpost-mortembypersonorpersonsunknownatthistime.”HeturnedoffthemicandlookedatJenna.“Allmyfindingswillbeinmyfullreport.”
JennaturnedtoEmily.“Wasthereanythingofinterestinthebackpack?”
“Notinside,no.Justtheusualthingsagirlwouldneedatpracticebutherpompomsweremissing.Theyusuallyhavetheirownforpractice.Wefoundquiteafewdifferentsetsofprintsonthebackpackandsomefibersthatcouldbefromtheinteriorcarpetofavehicle.Theylooktoofinetobefromarugorsimilar.We’veenteredalltheinformationonfileandthesamplesarewaitingforprocessing.”
JennalookedatKane.“We’dhavetoprinteveryoneatthepractice,allherfriends,andherfather,touseforelimination.”
“It’sawasteoftime.”Kaneshookhishead.“Iftheytooksomuchcaretocovertraceevidence,theywouldn’thandlethebackpackwithoutgloves.Theydroppeditmilesawayfromherbodytoputusofftheirtrail.”
“I’dbelookingmorecloselyatthefibers.”Riomovedcloser.“Shewoulddropherbackpackonthefloorbetweenherlegs,whenshegotintothevehicle.Ifthebackpackhaspickedupsomefibers,wecouldtracethemtothevehicle.Weknowthemakeandonceweknowthemodelandyear,itwouldbeeasiertonarrowdowntheowner.”
“Leaveitwithme.”Wolfepulleddownhisfacemaskandheadedforthedoor.“I’llgettoitimmediately.”
JennaturnedtoKaneandRio.“Let’sgo.”ShefollowedWolfeoutthedoor.“Therearesomanydatabasesweneedtosearch.BringingintheFBIcomputerwhizzkidBobbyKalowouldmakelifesomucheasier.“I’mcallingJothemomentwegetbacktotheoffice.Areyouokaywiththat?”
“Sure.”Kanedraggedoffhismaskandsmiledather.“Thiscaseisgoingtoneedallthebootsonthegroundwecanmuster.”
SEVENTEEN
OutsidetheME’soffice,Jennasuckedingulpsoffreshmountainairbutthesmellofdeathlingeredinhernostrilsasifithadtakenuppermanentresidence.ShefollowedKanetohistruckandleanedagainstthedoorjustbreathing.Attheendoftheroad,shecouldseepeoplemillingaroundMain.ThepreparationswereinfullswingfortheFallFestivalparadethefollowingday.Thethemethisyearwassportandlocalteamswouldpresenttheirplayersonfloats.AbandfollowedbycheerleadingsquadswouldmarchdownMainandthemayorwouldofficiallyopenthefestival.Therestoftheweekwouldbefilledwithexcitementandalthoughattimesthetouristscouldbeaproblem,shelookedforwardtothebunting,smilingfaces,balloons,andcottoncandy.Allfestivalsbroughtamyriadofaromas,fromthefriedonions,barbecuedribs,andthefamouspulledporktothecakeandcandystalls.Shealmostwantedtorollinitwithdelight.
“TheregoesourdanceattheFallFestival.”Kaneslidanarmaroundhershoulderandgaveherasqueeze.“Iwaslookingforwardtohavingmytoescrushedagainthisyear.”Hegrinnedather.“Forsomeonewhocanlearnhand-to-handcombatmovessoeasily,Ican’tunderstandwhyyoucan’tdance.”Hewincedwhenshedughimintheribs.“Although,you’regettingbetter.”
Jennasnorted.“Haveyouthoughtitmightbeyou?”Shepokedhimagain.“Ididn’tsteponTy’sfeetwhenwedancedatAntlers.”
“Yeah,butCarterwasholdingyouwayouthere.”Kanespreadhisarms.“Hehasakeeneye,andprobablynoticedthescuffsonmyboots.”
Jennarolledhereyes.“Thanks,Dave,Ifeelsomuchbetternow.”Sheduckedawayandheadedaroundthehood.“Iguesswe’dbettergetbacktotheoffice.”
“IfigureweshouldhuntdownCoryHughesfirst,heshouldbeattheschoolatthistime.”Kaneopenedhisdoor.“Ifhe’sinnocent,he’llgiveupaDNAsamplebutwe’llhavetoobtainpermissionfromWyattCooper’sparentstotesthim.”
Jennanodded.“Sure,andweneedthesamplesyesterday.Let’sgo.”
Shestaredoutthewindow,wantingtobepartoftheorganizinghappeningintown.Sheoftenhelpedouthereorthere,herdeputiessavingsomeoftheoldertownsfolkfromtheheavylifting,butsheonlygotaglimpseofMain,asKanetookthebackroads.AfterafewturnstheyspedalongStantontowardtheschool.Theparkinglotwasemptybuttheypassedafewkidswalkinghomeingroups.“FromwhatHughessaidheparksroundback.”
“Okay.’Kanedrovearoundthemainbuildingandparkedbehindawhitepickup
Jennawrinkledhernoseatthesmellcomingfromthelineofdumpstersandbuzzedupherwindow.Shescannedthearea.“Thebackdoorisopen.Maybehe’sworkingcloseby.”
“Ihopeso.We’vebeenawayfromtheofficeforhours.”Kaneclimbedoutandwenttothebackofhistruck.“I’llgrabaDNAtestkit.”
Jennastaredathim.“Ifyou’reworryingaboutDuke,don’t.Maggiewillbefeedinghimsnacksandhe’llprobablybesleepingthemoff.”
“Maybebuthedoesn’tknowRio.”Kanepushedsurgicalglovesintohispocketandshrugged.“Withhimworkingnexttome,hemightthinkI’vebeenreplaced.Hedoesn’tlikestrangers.”Helookedather.“Ifigureifhegetsworried,he’llheadbacktotheres.Youshouldseehimthere,Jenna,hegetssoexcited.Ididn’tthinkthatdogsrememberedtheirmothersbuthedoes.IoftenwonderifIshouldhavegivenhimtoAtohi?”
Jennaignoredthestinkofgarbageandstaredathimindisbelief.“Areyoujoking?Whenyouspenttimeinthehospital,hehowledatthedoorandinsistedItakehimtoeveryroominthecottagetolookforyou.HesleptundertheBeastforweeksandrefusedtoeat.Ihadtodraghimoutandthengivehimoneofyourdirtyshirtstosleeponandhandfeedhiminhisbasket.Hemightbeexcitedtoseehismombutyouarehisworld.”Shelookedathimuncomprehending.“Youmustknowthat,right?”
“Younevertoldmethatbefore.”Kane’sbrowwrinkledintoafrown.
Jennashookherhead.“No,becauseyouweren’tyouwhenyoucamehomefromthehospital.Youdidn’tremembermeletaloneDuke.”
“IdidrememberDuke.”Kaneremovedhishatandrubbedthescaronhishead.“Selectivememory.”Hecuppedhercheek.“Sorry,Iremembereverythingjustfinenow.YousavedmylifeandIabandonedyou.”
Jennamovedcloser.“Youcamehome.”Shesmiledathim.“Evenwithnomemory,youcamehomewithme.You’rewithmenow.That’sallthatmatters.”
“I’maluckyman.”Kanebrushedakissoverherlipsandthenstiffenedandlookedoverhershoulderanddroppedhishand.“Ithinkitwasjustabuginyourhair,Sheriff.”
What?JennanoticedCoryHughesleaningagainstthedoorframe,grinninglikeababoon.ItwasobviousKanewastryingtoconcealatendermomentfrompryingeyes.Sheclearedherthroat.“What’ssofunny,Mr.Hughes?”
“Well,it’snotoftenIseethesheriffandoneofherdeputiesmakingoutwiththetrash.”Hugheschuckled.“I’llleaveyoutwolovebirdsalone.”
Annoyed,Jennamarchedtowardhim.ThelastthingtheyneededwasHughesspreadingrumorsallovertown.“Ifaskingsomeonetopullabugoutofmyhairisyourideaofmakingout,Ithinkyouneedprofessionalhelp.”Shefollowedhiminside.“Don’tgoanywhere,I’mheretoseeyou.”
“IgavemystatementandIhavenothingmoretoadd.”Heledthewayinsidetheschool.
“WeareeliminatingthelastpeopletoseeLaurieTurneralivefromourinvestigation.”Kanemovedtoherside.“We’llneedaDNAswabfrominsideyourmouth.It’spainlessandifyou’renotinvolvedinhermurder,youhavenoneedtobeconcerned.”
“Murder?”Hughespaled.“LastIheardshewentmissing.She’sdead?How?Whathappenedtoher?”Helookedatherwide-eyed.
EitherHugheswasinshockorhewasgreatatplayacting.She’dwitnessedpsychopathsactremorsefulwhentheyhadnoempathywhatsoeverandusuallywentbyhergutfeelingduringinterviews.“Thecauseofdeathisunderinvestigation.TherewasDNAfoundonherbodyandwe’recollectingsamplesfromallherfriends.We’renotaccusingyouofanything,thiswayifyouhadnothingtodowithherdeath,ittakessuspicionawayfromyou.”
“I’dneverhurtLaurie.”Hughesrubbedbothhandsdownhisface.“Iknewshelikedmebutgettinginvolvedwithasixteen-year-oldwouldcostmemyjob.ItoldhertogomakeupwithWyattwhenshebrokeherphone.”Hedashedahandthroughhishair.“Shekissedmeonthecheekandranoutthedoorgiggling.”
“Didyoufollowher?”Kane’svoicewassolow,Jennacouldhardlyhearhim.“Sweetyoungthinglikeher,noonewouldknow,right?”
JennaunderstoodKane’sunsavorycommentaboutLaurieasaninterviewingtechniqueusedbyFBIprofilersduringquestioning.Itmadethesuspectbelievetheinterviewerwasoflikemindandoftenpromptedaresponse.Perpetratorsoftenenjoyedtalkingabouttheirexploitstolikemindedpeople.
“No,Ididn’tfollowher.”Hughesstraightened.“IwenthomelikeItoldyou.”Hiseyesflashedwithanger.“I’dneverhurtLaurie.I’llgiveaDNAsampletoproveit.”
Easilysaidfromakillerwhoknewhe’dcoveredhistracks.Jennanodded.“Thankyou.Ididn’trealizeshewasaclosefriend.I’msorryforyourloss.”ShemotionedtowardKane.“DeputyKanewilltakethesample.”
Jennanoticedascrewdriver,inhistoppocket.Itwasadifferentcolortotheonethey’dfoundatthecrimescene.“Doyoualwayscarrythatparticularscrewdriver?”
“Yeah.”Hugheslookedpuzzled.“Thisoneistherightsizetofitjustabouteverythingintheschool,soIkeepithandy.”
“DoesanyoneinyourhouseholdownaChryslersedan?”Kanewasglovingupandhisvoicehadbecomealmostconversational.
“Yeah.Mymomhasone,it’sanoldone,shedon’tdriveitmuch.”HughesopenedhismouthforKanetoswab.
“Thanks.”KanesealedthesampleandaskedHughestosigntheform.“Isitgreenbyanychance?”
“Yeah,why?”Hugheswipedhismouthwiththebackofhishand.“Sherunaredlightorsomething?”
“NotthatI’maware.”Kanesealedtheevidencebag.“Doesyoursisterdrivethevehicle?”
“Sometimes.”Hughesfrownedandshiftedfromonefoottotheother.“Butshe’snotlonggottenherlicense.”
Jennatookinthechangeofdemeanor.“Whydidn’tyouinformmeaboutthevehicleatthemeetingatthegym?IdidaskifanyoneknewsomeonewithagreenChryslersedan.Itwasrightafterwespokeaboutthephone.”
“IguessIdidn’thearyou.”Hughesscratchedhishead.“I’dgonetogetLaurie’sphoneforyou,remember?”
Hisexcusewasplausibleandhe’dcooperatedsofar.Jennanodded.“Yeah,that’sright,youleftbeforeImadetheannouncement.”Shethoughtforabeatandchangedtact.“DidVernagetalongwithLaurie?Vernawasonthesamecheerleadingsquadasher,wasn’tshe?”
“Yeahtheywerebuttheydidn’tgetalong.”Hugheslookeddefensive.“Nowdon’tyougothinkinganythingnastyaboutVerna.She’shadabadlife.Myparentsfosteredherforayearandthenadoptedher.Peopledon’tunderstandherisall.”
“Doyougetalong?”Kane’svoicehaddroppedtoawhisper.“Itwouldbestrangehavingateenagermovein.I’mnotsureI’dliketosharemyparentswithastranger.”
“It’snotlikethatatall.”Hughesshookhishead.“Darnit,she’smybestfriend.I’mgladshe’soneofthefamilynow.”Hefrowned.“I’mgladshe’sthere.SincePawalkedout,Mahasbecomeapainandblamesmeforeverything.Likeit’smyfaulthelefther?”
“It’shardforeveryonewhenfolksbreakup.”Kanegrimaced.“Wehaveeverythingweneed,thankyouforyourtime.”
AstheyclimbedbackintotheBeast,JennaturnedtoKane.“Didyougetavibefromhim?”
“Hewasn’tactinglikeaguywhothoughtLauriewastooyoungforhim,andsomeonewhomightcausehimtolosehisjobifhebecameinvolvedwithher.Iwouldexpecthisreactionfromalongtimelover.Hiswordssaidonethingandhisactionsanother.”Kanestartedtheengineandbackedout.“Thatwasoverkill.IfhismomownsaChryslersedan,weonlyhavehiswordhewasdrivinghistruckonSaturdaynight.Ifheparksinthesameplace,itwould’vebeenoutofsight—orVernawasdrivingit.”
ThepossiblescenariodroppedintoJenna’smind.ShecouldseewhereKanewasgoing.“HewasworkinghereonSaturdaynightandcouldhaveeasilydisabledLaurie’spickup.”Shefrowned.“Buthowdidhemakeherdropherphone?”
“Verna.”KaneturnedbackontoStanton.“Fromwhateveryonewassayingtherewasquiteacrowdintheparkinglotthatnight.Theywereallexcitedaboutthefestival,makingplansandsuch.Maybeshefollowedheroutsideandbumpedintoher.Allthegirlsofheragearealwayscarryingtheirphonesandtalking.Theyliveintheirownworlds.Mostneverknowwhat’shappeningaroundthem.”
Jennathoughtforawhile.“I’mnotsosure.ItseemstomehecouldhavehadLaurie,shefanciedhimandtheattackonherlookstoomuchlikesomethingajealouswomanwoulddoandheadmittedVernadidn’tlikeher.”Sheshookherhead.“Wemightbelookingatthisthewrongway.ThekillermightbeVerna.”
“Maybebutitwouldbedifficulttomurderherandthenmoveherbodyalone,andmenattackwomen’sfacesaswell.”Kanegrimaced.“IneedtospeaktoJo.I’vereadsomethingaboutakillerwhoattackedtheeyesofhisvictims.Inthatcase,heknewallofthem.Itmightbeatrait.Iftheycan’tlookathim,he’snotresponsible.I’llneedtodigdeeper.”
EIGHTEEN
Afterleavingtheschool,KaneheadedtothehomeofWyattCooper.Therewouldbeachancehe’dbehomebynowandmaybeoneofhisparentswouldbetheretosigntheconsentform.Astheypulledupoutsidetheramblingranch-stylehome,heglancedatJenna.“Fingerscrossedwegetthisdonetoday.Weneedanswers.”
“I’mjusthopingLaurie’sdeathistheresultofabadargumentandnotthefirstinalineofcheerleadermurders.”Jennapushedopenherdoor.“Ifeelliketheclockistickingandwe’regettingclosertofindinganothercorpse.”Shelookedathimassheroundedthehood.“Ifigurewe’llneedVerna’sDNAaswell.I’mstillnotdiscountingherinvolvementorHughesinthiscase.”
Aftergatheringanothertestkit,Kanefollowedhertothefrontofthehouse.AfterJennapressedthebell,awomaninherlatethirtiesopenedthedoor,andstoodstaringatthemwithanastonishedexpression.Henoddedtoher.“Mrs.Cooper?”
“Yes.”Mrs.Cooperstoodasifguardingthedoorway,bothhandsclutchingthedoorframe.“Issomethingwrong?”
“Notatall.”Jennasmiledatthewoman.“We’recollectingDNAsamplesandfingerprintstoeliminatesuspectsinLaurieTurner’smurder.We’dliketogetasamplefromWyattifhe’shome.”
“Wejustheardonthenewsaboutherdeath.”Mrs.Cooperpressedahandtoherchest.“Shewassuchasweetgirl.Wyattisheartbroken.”Sheshookherhead.“Iguessyou’dbettercomeinside.I’llgoandgethim.”
KanefollowedJennathroughthedoorandtheywaitedinthehallwayatthefootofthestairs.Thescentoflavenderfurniturepolishfilledthehouseandexplodedawaveofmemoriesforhim.Hismotherhadalwaysmadeherownpolishusingbeeswaxandlavenderoil.Herecalledhertellinghimhowitmadeeverythingshine,evenhisboots.UpstairstheycouldhearmumbledconversationsandWyattCooperappearedatthetopofthesteps.
“Haveyoufoundoutwhokilledher?”Wyattshookhisheadslowly.“IfonlyI’dwaited,shewould’vebeenokay.Iwastoopig-headedandfiguredshe’dgetjealousseeingmetalkingtoBecky.”
“Wewouldn’tbeherechasingdownDNAsamplesifwe’dfoundherkiller.”Jennawasregardinghimclosely.“Youcan’tblameyourself,Wyatt.It’sthekiller’sfault,notyours,andwe’llfindoutwhodidthistoher.Youhavemyword.”
“Thanks.”WyattlookedatKane.“Ican’tbelievethemayorisgoingaheadwiththefestivalwithLauriedeadandall.Itdoesn’tseemright.We’reexpectedtoshowtoo,likenothinghappened.”
Theshowmustgoon.Kanenodded.“Whensomethinglikethishappens,it’ssometimesbesttoallowlifetogoonasnormal.It’satraumaticeventandnormalityisthebestcure.”Hemettheyoungman’stroubledgaze.“WeneedDNA—”
“Yeah,Momjusttoldme.”Wyattfrowned.“Doyouneedtotakeblood?”
“Nojustaswab.”Jennasmiledathim.“Openyourmouth.”Shetookthesample.“Thereyougo,thatwaseasy.”
Afterpullingthefingerprintscannerdevicefromhispocket,Kanemovedcloser.Thisispainlesstoo.HeguidedWyattthroughtheprocess.“Thankyouforyourcooperation.”
“That’sokay.”Wyattrubbedthebackofhisneck.“IhopeyoufindwhokilledLaurie.”
KanewaitedforMrs.Coopertojointhem.“Ihavesomepaperworkforyoutosign.”Herestedthedocumentsonasidetableandexplainedthecontents.“Thankyou.”Hesighed.“We’llgetgoing.Wehavetogetthissamplebacktothelab.”
“I’msosorryforyourloss.”Jennaheadedforthedoor.
Astheydroveaway,Kaneturnedtoher.“Nowthatwasgenuinegrief.Blaminghimselfisnormal,hefeltresponsibleforherandwantedherback.Idon’tseehimasjealous.”
“Heseemslikeanormalhealthyteenagertome.”Jennashookherhead.“ButthenTedBundywasregardedasareallyniceguytooandhemurderedthirty-sixwomen.Hemakesthepsychopathswe’vehadtodealwithinBlackRockFallslooklikeamateurs.”
AfterdroppingbytheME’sofficetogivethesamplestoWolfe,Kanetookthebackroadsbacktotheofficetoavoidthecrowds.TheyarrivedalittlebeforefivetoseeDuke’snosepressedagainstthedoor.Fromthemarksspreadacrosstheglass,he’dbeenthereforsometime.AsKanesteppedinside,abarkofexcitementgreetedhimfollowedbyahappydanceofepicproportions.HewasusedtohavinganexciteddogweighingalittleoveronehundredpoundschargingathimbutitwasonlybyhisquickreflexeshemanagedtocatchJennabeforesheheadbuttedthefrontcounter.Asshehungoverhisarm,Dukewaslickingherfacewithenthusiasm.“Hey,settledown,Duke.We’rehappytoseeyoutoobutJennadoesn’tneedabath.”
Oh,he’dsaidthe“B”wordandDukestoppedmovingandhightaileditunderMaggie’sdesk.KanestraightenedandtriednottolaughatthesalivadrippingfromJenna’schin.“Sorry.Hewasjustbeingloving.”
“Yuk.”Sheshuddered.“Itoldyouhe’dbefrantic.”Sheheadedforthebathroom.“Ineedtowashup.”
“There’ssomeoneheretoseeyou.”Maggiewasgrinningfromeartoear.“ThoseFBIagentsandtheirdogs.”Sheglanceddownbesideher.“ButbestyousettleDuke.He’sshakingsomuch,ifIputmyfeetonhim,I’dgetafootmassage.”
Kanenodded.“Sure.”Hesmiledandpulledabagofcookiesfromhisjacketpocket.“Duke,Ihavecookies.”Hecoaxedhimoutandrubbedhisears.“I’msorrywetooksolong.We’llgobyAuntBetty’sonthewayhome.Okay?”
ItseemedthecureforallthatailedDukewascoveredbycookiesandthementionofAuntBetty’sCafé.Kaneleanedonthecounter.“AnyideawhyJoandCarterarehere?”
“Theydidn’tsay.”Maggieshrugged.“Theyarrivedaboutfiveminutesagoandthey’renotwearingtheirFBIjackets.”
Kanenodded.“WhereareRowleyandRio?”
“Inthecommunicationsroom.”Shesmiled.“Theyworkwelltogether.TheyhadpeoplelininguptogivestatementsintheLawcaseandhadthemallfiledinnotimeatall.ThecountypickedupLawandnowthey’researchingthroughCCTVfootageforthevehicleyou’retryingtohuntdown.”
“Thanks.”HeglancedupasJennacamethroughthemainofficeandheadedhisway.“JoandCarterarewaitinginyouroffice,RowleyandRioarescanningCCTVfiles.”
“Okay.”Jennaheadedforherofficedoor.“Iwonderwhattheywant?”ShebenttorubDuke’sears.“Heseemsfinenow.”
Kanechuckled.“Yeah,he’smuchlikeme.Givehimacookieandhe’llforgiveanything.”
“I’lltryandrememberthatjewelofinformation.”Jennalaughedandpushedthedooropentoheroffice.
NINETEEN
“Jo,Ty.Howgoodtoseeyouagainandwhoisthisbeautifulyounglady?”JennasmiledattheyounggirlclutchingaBostonTerrieronherlap.
“ThisisJaimeandBeau.”JosmiledwarmlyatJenna.“We’restayingatTheCattleman’sHotelfortheFallFestival.”
“Nicetomeetyou,Jaime.I’mJennaandthisisDaveKane.”Jennasmiledatthelittlegirl.“I’vebeenlookingforwardtomeetingyou.Didyoucomeinthechopper?Ibetthatwasfun.”
“IlikeditfinebutBeauwasshakingallover.”Jaimefrowned.“Heseemsokaynow.Whathappenedtoyourface?”
Jennatouchedhersorecheek.“Oh,Ijustbumpeditisall.”
“WhenIhurtmyself,Mommykissesitbetterforme,butadultsdon’tdothat,dothey?”Jaimegaveherawide-eyedstare.
“Well,Kane’sdoggavemyfaceagoodlickbeforesoI’mgoodtogonow.”JennaglancedatTyCartersprawledinachair,histrustyDoberman,Zorro,sittingbesidehim.Thepairofthemwereacompletecontrast:Cartergavetheimpressionofalazycowboy,chewingonatoothpick,untidyblondhairathiscollar,wearingcowboybootsandabatteredStetson,whilehisdogsatupright,earspricked,coatglossy,andreadyforaction.“Ty,nicetoseeyou.Areyouallhereforthefestival?”
“Nope,I’mhereforsomerecreationalpursuits:eating,playingcards,orpoolanddrinking.Imightfindtimetogofishingaswell.”HelookedatKane.“Doyouhaveanyvacationtimedue?I’dappreciateyourcompany.”
“Unfortunately,wehaveahomicidetoinvestigate.”Kaneshrugged.“Wehadplannedtocallyou.”
“Ah,noway.”Carterhelduphishands.“I’moff-dutybutKaloisintheofficeifyouneedhimtohuntdownanythingforyou.”
“I’llbehappytohelp.”Joleanedbackinherchair.“ButIpromisedJaimeshecouldwatchtheparade.”
Jennawenttothecounterandfilledthecoffeemachine.“We’llhavetimetorunafewthingspastyoulaterwhenJaimeisasleep.”
“Sure.”Josmiled.“IwashopingtointroduceJaimetoShane’sdaughters.Ithinkshe’dgetalongwithAnnabutIguesshe’llbebusytoo?”
Jennapulledoutcupsandthefixings.“HewillbutJuliewillbetakingAnnatothefestival.She’sveryresponsibleandtheyhaveahousekeeperwhonevermissesaparade.Maybeyoucantagalongwiththem?”
“I’llcallandaskShanelater.”JolookedatKane.“Wasitsomethinginmyfieldofexpertiseyouneededtodiscuss?”
“Yeah,it’scomplicated.”Kanedroppedintoaseatandremovedhishat.“Likemostthingsthathappenaroundhere.”
“Well…”Carterstraightenedandtossedthetoothpickintothetrash.HelookedatJaime.“IhaveahankeringforasliceofAuntBetty’speachpie.Shehaseveryflavoroficecream.Ifyourmomsaysit’sokay,wouldyouliketocomewithmeandtrysome?”
“CanI,Mommy?”Jaimegrinned.“Please,please,please?”
“Sure,butdon’tbetoolong.”JoturnedtoCarter.“You’dbettergrabasliceofthatpieformeaswell.”ShelookedatJenna.“It’sthebestintown,right?
Jennalaughed.“Itsureis.”
“Let’sgo.”Carterofferedhishandtothelittlegirl.“We’llwalk,it’snotfarandthedogsneedarun.”Theyheadedoutthedoor.
“Okay.”Joleanedforwardinherseat.“What’shappened?”
Jennapouredthreecupsofcoffeeandplacedthemonthetable.ShesatdownandbroughtJouptospeedwiththeLaurieTurnercase.“LikeKanesaid,it’scomplicated.”
“Hmm.”Jodrummedherfingertipsonthedesk.“Thecauseofdeathconfusesthings,strangulationfrombehindisn’tupfrontandpersonal,whichappearstocontradictthepost-mortemstabbing.”
“Thenwehavethedelay.”Kaneindicatedtothewhiteboard,whichhadbeenbroughtuptodatebyRiointheirabsence.“Shewasstrangledandleftinasittingpositionforsomehours,wrappedinplastic,andmovedtothelowlands.Weknowshewasstabbedinthatlocationbythespatterpatternoverthemetaldoortotheoldmine.”
Jennachewedonherbottomlip.“Itdoesn’tfitanycrimeofpassionI’veseenbefore.”
“That’sbecauseit’snot.”Josippedhercoffeeandthoughtforabeat.“I’mwonderingifthisisaWhiteKnightmurder.”
“Inwhatcontext?”Kanelookedpuzzled.
“Thistypeisthenextstepupfromamancomingtoawoman’sneed.Thissubjectisreallyasubordinatetoadominantpersonality.Hewouldseeherasagoddess,someoneheadmires.Hecravesherfavorandwilldoanythingtopleaseherincludingbeinganaccessoryorcommittingmurderforher.So,wecouldhavetwokillersworkingtogether.Ihavenodoubtit’stwopeopleinvolved,likelyamaleandfemalebutitcouldbetwofemales.It’snotunusualfortwojealousfemalestohuntdownwomentheyhate.”Jostoodandstaredatthewhiteboard.“So,areyouassumingshewasstrangledbythesubordinateandstabbedbythedominant?”
Jennanodded.“Yes,Ithinkit’spossible.Wehaveawitnesstosayshetookarideinacar,andwe’reassumingfromthetimeofdeathithappenedsometimeafterthat.Kanebelievesshewasstrangledinsidethevehiclebutwecan’tignorethefactshemayhavebeenattackedleavingthevehiclebyatallerperson.FromthepositionofthemarksonherneckeitherispossiblesoIcan’tdiscountthesubordinatemale.”
“I’dsayinsidethevehiclebutIdisagreewiththeideathesubordinatestrangledher.”Jostaredattheautopsyphotographs.“Ifapersonisn’takillerandisorderedtotakealife,thefirstkillwouldbeclumsy.Ittakesfourminutestostranglesomeonetodeath,sustainedpressureisrequiredorthevictimregainsconsciousness.Inthattime,someoneinthiscategorywouldreducethepressure,thecordwouldslipastheytriedagain.Thisisn’tevidenthere.”ShelookedatKane.“You’veseenthisbefore,surely?”
“Yeah,sometimesthevictimwakesupandtheyhavetostranglethemagain.”Kanewasonhisfeetstaringattheimages.“ThemarksonLaurie’sneckarefromsustainedpressure,sothiswasthedominantofthetwoandIfiguretheattackwascommittedbythesameperson.”
“Exactly.”Jostaredatthepost-mortemwoundsandnoddedslowly.“Thisisafrenziedattackbutwhattriggeredit?”Shestaredattheboard.“Anycluesatthescene?”
“Nothing.”Kanesighed.“Asyoucanseetheentireareawassweptclean.”
“Okay.Let’swinditbacktotheactualmurder.”Joturnedtolookatthem.“So,whytakeherfromthevehicleandsitheronaplasticsheet.Whysitherup?Itwouldhavebeeneasiertolieherdown.Theyobviouslyplannedtomoveherandasittingbodyinrigorwouldhavebeendifficulttomove.”
“Maybethat’swhytheywaitedovernight.”Kanepointedtotheimagesofthesceneatthemine.“Theyleftverylittletraceevidence.Theymustknowaboutforensicstosomedegree.”
“You’remissingmypoint.”Joleanedonehipagainstthedesk.“Whysitherupinthefirstplace?”
AchillrandownJenna’sbackasshecontemplatedthegruesomescene.“OhLord,theywantedhertowatchthem.”
“That’smytakeonitandthemen’sbriefspushedinhermouthistellingtheworldshe’seasy.”JolookedatJenna.“Okay,sofastforwardtothemorningtheydumpedheratthemine,whatwouldtriggeranattacktothefaceandeyes?”
Jennarubbedhertemples.ShefeltlikeshewasbackatQuanticoagain.“It’sjealousy,shewantedtodestroyherlooks,andmakeherugly.”
“Notjustthat.”Kaneturnedawayfromtheboard.“ThedominantkillerbelievedLauriewasstilllookingatthemorlookingathersubordinate.Itwasthetrigger.”
“That’swhatIbelievetoo.”Josatdownandreachedforhercoffee.“Classicdominantwithpsychopathictendencies,subordinatefollowerwithaWhiteKnightcomplex.”
“I’dprofilehimwithadominatingmother,orgrandmotherinhislife,whorunshimdownallthetimeandheseesthekillerasahero,someonewhocaresenoughtokillforhim.”Kanedroppedintohisseat.“Nowallwehavetodoisfindthem.”
“Rememberthetechniquewediscussedduringinterviews,Dave.”Jofrowned.“Thesetypesofcriminalsdon’trespectthepeopletheyhurt.Youhavetogetdowntotheirlevel,nomatterhowdirtyitmakesyoufeel.”Shesighed.“It’ssometimestheonlywaytogetthemtotalkaboutwhatthey’vedone.Iftheythinkyou’reofthesameopinionthey’lloftenopenupandboastaboutwhatthey’vedone.”
“Itmakesmefeellikeapervertspeakingthatway.”Kaneflickedheraglance.“Butit’satriedandtruetechnique.”
Jennasqueezedhisarm.“Afterlisteningtopsychopathsboastingabouttheirkillsnothingyousayinaninterviewwillworryme,Dave.WeusewhatworksandlikeJosaid,it’sarecognizedinterviewingtechnique,andnotindicativeofyourthoughts.”
ThephonebuzzedandJennareachedforit.“Hi,Shane,whathaveyougotforme?”Sheputthephoneonspeaker.
“WehaveaDNAmatch.ThebriefsbelongtoWyattCooper.Nomatchonthesalivaasyet.”Wolfeclearedhisthroat.“Thisseemsverysuspicioustome,toodarnobviouswheneverycarewastakentoleavethebodyclean.”
Jennanodded.“Yeah,itdoes.Joishereonvacation.We’regettinghertakeonthecasenow.Doyouwanttolistenin?”
“Hi,Jo.I’llcallyoulater.I’msnowedunderhereatthemoment.”Wolfesighed.“Jenna,I’mfinishingupmyreportandcheckingresults.I’llhavethemtoyousoon.”
“Okay,thanks,chatsoon.”Jennadisconnected.ShelookedatKane.“Whatdoyouthink?”
“ItseemstoomuchofacoincidencetheDNAisamatchtoCooper.”Kanerubbedthebackofhisneck.“Ifhe’dbeeninvolved,whywouldhemakesurethere’snotraceevidenceandthenleaveacallingcardbehind?Nooneisthatstupid.”
“Ihavetoagree.”Jonodded.“It’sasifthey’retryingtoshifttheblametosomeoneelse.”
Jennatappedherbottomlip,thinking.“CooperwasjealousofHughes,headmitteditbutnothingelsefits.”
“Allthis—”Jowavedahandtowardthewhiteboard“—wastriggeredbyjealousy.So,youhaveafewoptions.IbelievethisisafemaledominantandamalesubordinatebutthereisalwaysachanceitcouldbeonekillerbutfromwhatI’mseeinghere,it’snotlikelyforthesereasons:IfCooperwaspushedtoajealousragewhenLauriewenttoHughesinsteadofhimforhelp,inmyexperience,akillerofthistypewoulduserapeasapunishment,ratherthanstuffinghisbriefsdownherthroat.”
“Andthekillershavebeensocarefulnottoleaveevidence.”Jennashrugged.“Itdoesn’tfit.”ShelookedatJo.“Whatdoyousuggest?”
“You’llneedtohuntdownanyguysLauriewasattractedtobecauseoneofthemmightbethesubordinateandhisgirlfriendthekiller.Alternatively,youneedtodiscoveriftherewasanythingelsetotriggeranattack.Maybesomethinggoingonatschoolbetweenthegirls.Lauriewasonthecheerleadingsquad,didshetakeanothergirl’splaceforinstance,wastherearivalrythere?”Sheshookherhead.“Failingalloftheabove,wecouldhaveanopportunisticthrillkillerwholikestokeepcorpsesovernightandthenmutilatethem.Inthiscase,themurdererwouldbemaleforsure,butastherewasnosexualcontact,itwouldbeunusual—butthenunusualisusualinBlackRockFalls.”
TWENTY
Bythetime,JoandCarterhadtakenJaimebacktoTheCattleman’sHotel,itwasgettinglate.JennaandKanewentoverthecasefilesmakingnotesuntilRowleyandRioemergedfromthecommunicationsroom.BothlookedtiredafterreviewingtheCCTVfootage.Jennalookedupatthem.“Howdidyougo?”
“WefoundasimilarvehicletravelingthroughtownatnineonSaturdaynight.Thefeedistoodistortedtomakeoutaplatenumberorwhowasdriving.”Rowleysighed.“Thecameralensisdirtyorwehaveawasp’snestinthere.Itwasthatbad.Nothingvisiblefromthebankcameras,Miller’sGarage,orthegunstore.”
Jennanodded.“Well,that’sashame.”Sheglancedathernotes.“DidyougetallthepaperworkfortheLawcaseovertotheDA?”
“Yeah.”Rionodded.“TheescortarrivedatthreetocollectLaw.He’ssafelylockedawayinthecountyjailuntilhisbailhearing.IfolloweduponMrs.Lawandherbaby.ShehascollectedherthingsfromthefamilyhomeandhassettledintooneofthesafeapartmentsrunbytheHerBrokenWingsFoundation.Shewillremainthereforaslongasnecessarybutwon’tbereturningtoBlackwater.”
Relieved,Jennasmiled.“That’sgoodtoknow.”
“Howisyourface?”Rowleyfrownedather.“You’regoingtohaveashiner.”
Jennatouchedhercheek.“I’mfine,thankyou.”SheclearedherthroatandbroughtthemuptodatewiththeirinterviewsandWolfe’sresults.“AsyougopasttheHughes’houseonthewayhome,IwaswonderingifyoucouldtryandpersuadeMrs.HughestoallowyoutotakeaDNAsamplefromVerna?”
“Icantry.”Rowleylookedalittleuncomfortable.“I’mconvincedMrs.Hughesisaconspiracytheorist.Sandyhashadafewrun-inswithher,sheisn’tapleasantwomanandhateslawenforcement.Shemaynotallowmethroughthegate.HerplaceispostedbutIcantry.”
ConcernedoverRowley’ssafety,sheshookherhead.“Don’tworry.Ifshe’sposted‘notrespassing’signs,she’swithinherrightstodefendherproperty.Goingthereatnightwithoutbackupisoutofthequestion.IdoubtVernaisgoinganywhere,I’lldropbywithKaneinthemorning.”Shesmiledatherdeputies.“There’sovertimeonoffer,forthefestival.I’mcallinginsomehelpfromBlackwaterbutI’dlikeoneofustobeondutyhereuntilten,ten-thirtytomorrowandWednesday.Waltershasvolunteeredtotaketherestoftheweek.He’llbetakingoveratsix.”
“I’lldotomorrow.”Rowleyshrugged.“I’llbeintownanyway.SandywantstofinishupatthehouseintownandmakeitniceforwhenZacmovesin.”Hechuckled.“Ican’tstopher.Hermomsaysshe’snesting—whateverthatmeans.She’snothappyatthemomentunlessshe’scleaningorsettinguproomsandsheranoutofthingstodoattheranchlastweekend.”
JennalookedatRio’spuzzledexpression.“SandyisRowley’swifeandthey’reexpecting.Shegaveupworklastweekandhasbeenkeepingherselfbusyisall.”
“Ah,Isee.”Riosmiled.
Jennawavedhimaway.“Okay,headoffhome.Maggiehasalreadyleftfortheday.We’lllockup.Seeyouinthemorning.”ShesmiledatRowley.“GivemybesttoSandy.”
“Iwill.”Rowleytouchedhishatandheadedforthedoor.
Jennashookherhead.“IhopeSandydoesn’toverdothings,withthebabyandall.”
“I’msureDocBrowniskeepingacloseeyeonher.”Kanetookhishatfromthedeskandranhisfingersdownthecentercrease.“Youeverthoughtabouthavingkids?”
Althoughtakenabackbyhisquestion,Jennadidn’thesitate.“Yeah,andI’mawaretheclockisticking.Why?”
“Justasking.”KaneseemedconsumedbyafleckofcottononhisblackStetson.“It’sbeengreatsharingeveryone’skidsbutit’snotthesameashavingyourown.”
Jennatidiedherdesk.“Icouldn’tagreewithyoumore.”
“That’sgoodtoknow.”KanepushedthehatonhisheadandthenbenttorubDuke’sears.
AlowrumblefilledtheroomandJenna’sattentionmovedbacktoKane.“DoyoumindifwedropbyAuntBetty’sfordinner?It’sbeenalongdayandI’mfamished.WestillhavetofeedthehorsesandIdon’tfeellikecookingtonight.”
“Sure.”Kanecollectedhisthingsandclosedhislaptop.“I’llfinishupfilingmyreportsathome.Let’sgo.”
JennainhaledtheinstantshesteppedintoAuntBetty’sCafé.ItssinfullydelightfularomasofdishesthatwereguaranteedtogostraighttoherhipsmadeherglanceatKane,suddenlyunderstandinghisneedtobuytakeouttokeepinhisfreezer.Livingthelonghoursduringcases,itwasgoodtohavesomethingtopopintothemicrowavewhentheyarrivedhome.Theproblemwas,apartfromafreezerfilledwithsteak,Jennadidn’treallyhaveanythingshedidn’thavetomakefromscratch.
AuntBetty’swasbusierthanusualwiththetouristsintown.Assheedgedaroundtablesfilledwithpeopleandmadeherwaytotheirseats,sheheardabark.SheturnedtoseeDukesittinginfrontofthecounter.ShelookedatKane.“Won’tyoulookatthat,he’sorderinghisdinner.”
“Hejumpedthelineaswell.”Kanegrinnedandsatdownattheirreservedtableandpickedupthemenu.“Icouldeatjustabouteverythingonheretonight.Pulledpork,honeyglazedpotatoes,andpeachpieformetonight.”
Jennaremovedherjacketandhungitoverthebackofthechair.“IthinkI’llhavethesamebutI’lltakethesmallportion.”Shelaughedathisexpression.“Idogethungrytoo,youknow.”
AfterSuziearrivedtotaketheirorderandplacedafilledbowlforDukeonthefloor,shesmiledatthem.“Whatwillyouhavetonight?”
AftergivingSuzietheirorder,Jennasippedaglassofwaterandleanedbackinherchair.“Mindifwetalkaboutthecase?”
“Nope.”Kanestood,removedhisjacketandhat,andthensatdownclosertoher.“We’dbetterkeepitgeneric.Wedon’tknowwhomightbelistening.”
Withtheirbackstothewallandinthecorner,thehumofconversationwouldcoveranydiscussion.Jennaloweredhervoice.“I’mnotsureaboutWyattCooper,Iknowyoufigurehe’snotinvolvedbutIstillreckonweshouldtalktohimaboutwherehemighthavelosthisunderwear.Imean,couldanyonehavebeeninthevicinityofhislaundrybasket?”
“That’sagoodpoint.”Kanewasleaningcloselisteningintently.“Therewouldn’tbemanyplaceshe’dbechanginghisshorts.”Hestaredintospaceforafewseconds.“Aswimmingholemaybe,buthewouldn’ttakespares,mostwouldjumpinthewaterandheadhomewet.”
NothingcametoJenna.She’dhadnoexperiencewithteenageboys.Shethoughtbacktothefirsttimethey’dspokentoWyatt.“Heaskedifyou’dplayedfootball.Heisontheteam.”Herfacegrewhotandshelookedaway.“Nevermind.”
“Outwithit.”Kanebumpedhershoulder.“That’sthefirsttimeI’veseenyoublush.Comeon,askme,Iknowyouwantto.”
Jennahuffedoutabreath.“It’snotsomethingIreallyneedtoknowbutit’satheory.”Shecouldfeelhercheeksburning.“Whenyoupracticedorwhatever,Iguessyousweatedalot,isitusualtoshowerandchangeclothesaftertraining?”
“Itdepends,onhowmuchgearyou’rewearingandthetemperature,butyeahIusedtosweatrightthrough.Wepracticedbeforeclasses,soweshoweredandchanged.Beforeyouaskyeah,Ichangedmyshorts.Ifiguremostguyswould.”Kanesmiledather.“Iknowthehighschoolteampracticesbeforeclasses.Doyoufiguresomeonetookhisdirtylaundryfromhislocker?”Hepushedahandthroughhishair.“Thinkingback,mostguysjuststrippedoffandlefttheirclothesinapileonthebench.So,ifyourassumptioniscorrect,wecouldbelookingatsomeonewhoiseitherontheteamorworkswiththeteam.”
Jennanodded.“Ithinkweshouldaskhim.”Sheglancedathim.“Although,it’sprettyembarrassingaskingasixteen-year-oldabouthisunderwear.”
“Notiftheywerefoundstuffedinthemouthofhismurderedex-girlfriend.”Kaneshookhishead.“Hehasmotive.Hewasjealous.He’sadmitteditanddidn’tlikehertalkingtoHughes.Theproblemisit’sjusttoodarnobviousthathe’sthekillerunlessI’vereadhimallwrong.”
“Well,Joagreeswithyou.”Jennarubbedhertemples.“Personally,Ifiguredivulgingwherewefoundhisbriefswillbegivingawayvitalevidence.SomethingonlythekillerwouldknowandIdon’tbelieveCooperisstupidenoughtoleaveacallingcard.”
“Weneedtoinformhimwefoundhisshortsatthecrimesceneandwatchhisreaction.”Kaneshrugged.“Although,Jodidofferavarietyofscenarios,Iagreewithyou,andI’mleaningmoretowardHughesandhissister.Ihaveagutinstinctaboutadominantwomanbeinginvolved,andifVernaisastoughastheysay,shefitstheprofile.”
“Yeah,we’llneedtoseeforourselves.Sometimespeople’sreputationsareunfounded.We’llheadoutfirstthinginthemorningandcatchherbeforesheleavesfortheparade.”Jennapulledoutherphoneandsearchedherfiles.“Takingthepossiblefootballlinkintoconsiderationthere’sanothername,welltwonamesthatVickyPerezmentioned,weshouldfollowup.Thequarterback,DaleCollins,runstherefreshmentskioskforhisauntontrainingdays,andbothheandacheerleaderbythenameofMarleneMoorewereseenchattingtoLauriebeforeshedisappeared.Theymighthavesomeinformation.I’dliketoknowwhattheytalkedaboutthatnight.”
“Wedon’thavealinkbetweenthem.”Kanepeeredathernotes.“VickyjustsaidMarleneisalwayshangingaroundCollins.Thatwouldbenormalforaquarterback,theyusuallyhaveafanclub.”
“I’mthinkingoutofthebox,Dave.We’llhuntthemdownafterwe’vespokentoVerna.”Jennasmiledasthefoodarrived.“Oh,thislooksgood.”
“Thankyou.”Susiebeamed.“Enjoy,I’llsendsomeonebackwithapotofcoffee.”
“Doyoufigureshe’llgiveyouherrecipes?”Kanegrinnedather.“Nah,don’task.”
Jennafrowned.“Why?IsitbecauseI’mhopelessatcooking?”
“Nope.Ithinkthey’dbelockedawayinavault.”Kanechuckled.“Andbytheway,Ihappentolikeyourlittleidiosyncrasies.Theymakeyouspecial.”
TWENTY-ONE
Tuesday
TheinternalclockinsideKane’sheadwokehimatfive.Hepulledonhisworkoutgear,asweater,andsweatpantsandthenheadedoutintothemistymorningtodohischores.AsusualDuketaggedalongandPumpkin,Jenna’sblackcat,wassittingonahaybalewaitingforthemtoarrive.Hetookthehorsesouttothecorralandstoodforasecondto
“Hey.”Jennaleanedonapitchforkandsmiledathim.“It’scoldthismorningandIfiguredIneededtoloosenupbeforeweworkedout.”Sheglancedatherwatch.“Iwanttobeleavingherebysix-thirtytobesurewecatchtheHughesfamilyathome.”
Kanepickedupashovelandscoopedandtossedmanureintothewheelbarrow.“Haveyoudecidedanythingaboutthesalivasamplefoundatthecrimescene?”
“Yeah.”Jennahadmovedontothethirdstall.“IsentittoBobbyKalotorunthroughtheDNAdatabaseslastnightbutunlessoursuspecthasbeenintroublewiththelaw,orservedinthemilitary,wewon’tfindamatch.”
Kanekeptupasteadypaceanddidn’tstoptolookather.“TheyhaveaccesstoalltheDNAdatabases,includingtheonespeopleusetodiscovertheirfamilytree.Wemightnotgetadirecthitbutwemightgetacloserelative.”
“Ihopeso.”Jennabrokeopenabaleofstrawandshookitoutinsidethestallbeforerepeatingtheprocessinthenextonealong.“Weneedsomethingtogoonanditseemstome,whoeverstabbedLauriewiththescrewdriverleftthesaliva.Theywereinarageandcouldhavebeenshoutingobscenitiesforallweknow.Spittlecanflyoutalloverwhensomeoneisangry.”
KanerolledthewheelbarrowouttothecompostpilebehindthebarntoemptyitandthenfollowedJennatoherranchhouse.Itwastheirnormalroutine,theywashedupandthencompletedabrutalworkoutbeforeshoweringandeatingbreakfast.TheiruniformhadchangedalittlesincetheirstintasFBIconsultants.Theneedforunencumberedmovementhadbecomeclearerwitheacharresttheymade.Theybothnowpreferredregularjeans,aT-shirt,andasheriff’sdepartmentjacket.Jennawouldwearbluejeans,anopenneckblouse,andhadswappedherdutybeltforalesscumbersomeholsterandajacketwithmorepockets.Hepreferredblack,andworehisGlockinahipholster,withhisbadgedisplayedonhisbelt.Thechangehadn’tasmuchasraisedaneyebrowwiththetownsfolkandalthoughRowleyhadaskedthequestion,Jennahadinformedhimassheriffanddeputysheriff,theycouldwearwhattheypleased.
TheyrolledthroughtownatclosetosevenandarrivedattheHugheshomealittleafter.Kanegavehissirenablastandwentupthedrivewaywithhiswig-waglightsflashing.HeturnedtoJenna.“Idon’twantthemtakingpotshotsatus.”
“Iftheyhavenothingtohide,theyshouldn’tbesoworried.”Sheturnedtohim.“Theymusthavehadregularvisitswhentheywereinthefostersystem.”
Kaneapproachedthehouse,doingavisualscanofthearea,windows,anddoorsforanysignofashotgunpointedintheirdirection.AdustyoldChryslersedanwasparkedunderthetreesoutfront.“Yeahbutthatwassometimeago,whenVernawasakid,thingshavechangedaroundthesepartssincethen.”
Thedooropened,Corysteppedout,andthescreendoorslappedshutbehindhim.Kanebuzzeddownhiswindow.“Isitokaywithyourmaifwehaveachat?”
“Sure?”Cory’sbrowwrinkledintoafrown.“What’sup?”
KaneclimbedoutandwaitedforJennatojoinhim.Hefollowedherontotheporchstep.“Canwecomeinside?”
“Ma,thesheriffishere.”Coryturnedawayfromthedoor.“Cantheycomeintospeaktoyou?”Heturnedbackandstoodtooneside.“Straightahead,she’sinthekitchen.Vernaiscookingbreakfast.Shehastheparadethismorningandcan’tbelate.”
“Wewon’tkeepyoulong.”JennatuckedaDNAtestkitunderonearmandfollowedCorydownthehallway.
ThehousesmelledlikeachickencoopandKanehadtomaneuverhiswayaroundpilesofjunk.Theadoptionwouldneverhavebeenapprovedifthehousehadbeeninthisstate.Heassumedsincetheadoptionhadgonethroughandherhusbandhadwalked,Mrs.Hugheshadbecomeahoarder.Hesteppedoveremptybeancansandpilesofnewspapers.Themoundsoftrashshowedevidenceofrodents,theplacewasamess.Heeasedinsidethekitchen.Hereitseemedthekidshadmadeaspacetocookandeatbutitwasminimal.Kanewaitedinthedoorwayandbattedawaytheflies.
“Iguessyouknow,wetookasampleofCory’sDNAtoeliminatehimfromtheinvestigationintoLaurieTurner’sdeath?”Jennawavedatestkit.“Weweren’tawareVernawasadopted,sowe’reheretoaskifwecangetasamplefromheraswell.We’retestingallofLaurie’sfriends.”
“IwasneverLaurie’sfriend.”Vernascowledatthemoveroneshoulder.“Sheusedherfamily’smoneyandherpa’spositiontogetonthecheerleadingsquad.Therestofushadtoearnourplace.”
“Iseebutallthesame,we’dlikeatestifit’sokaywithyourma?”Jennalookedhopefullyatthewomanseatedatthetablewithacigaretteheldbetweenherfingers.
“Nope,Iwon’tgivemypermission.”Mrs.Hughesshookherhead.“Yougotnorighttotakemyboy’sDNA.Nowhe’llbeontheFBI’sdatabaseforlife.”
Kaneclearedhisthroat.“He’soldenoughtogivepermission,Ma’am,andthesamplewouldonlybeaproblemifhe’splanningalifeofcrimeandfromwhatI’mseeing,he’shardworkingandgoodathisjob.”
“He’sajanitor.”Mrs.Hughesrolledhereyes.“Hecleansuptrash.”
“Maintenanceisaveryrespectableprofession.”Jennalookedhorrified.“Heisresponsibleforalltheauxiliarystaffworkingattheschool.Hedoesagreatjob.”
“He’sano-accountjustlikehisfather.”Mrs.Hugheswavedahandaroundthehouse.“Hedon’tlikeithere.Hewantstofindhisownplaceandleavemetofendformyself.HefiguresI’lljuststandbyandlethimtakeVernawithhim.”Shetookalongdragonhercigarette.“Itjustain’tgonnahappen.”
“Okay.”JennaexchangedameaningfulglancewithKane.“BeforeIgo,haveyouseenanyonehangingaroundtheschool,orthecheerleaders.Someonewhoisn’tonstaff?”
“Thereisoneguy.”Corybutteredasliceoftoastandstoodleaningagainstthecountertoeatit.“ThegirlscallhimStalkerStan.StanWilliams.Hehangsaroundsome,takesphotosandasksthemfordates.”Heshrugged.“ImentionedhimtoMr.Turnerbeingashe’sashrinkandallandaskedhimifIshouldreporthim…StalkerStan,Imean.Hefiguredhewasharmlessenough.”
Kanefrowned.“Doeshegettoofriendlyatall?”
“NotthatI’maware.”Corychewedslowly.“Noonementionedanything.”
“AnyideawherewecanfindMr.Williams?”Jennatookouthernotebookandpen.“Howoldwouldyousayheis?”
“Dunno,thirtymaybe.”Corypushedmorebreadintothetoaster.“Helivesinaroomoverthegeneralstore,actsastheirsecurityovernight,anddrivestheschoolbus.”
“WhenwasthelasttimeanyonedrovetheoldChryslersedan?”Kanelookedaroundthefacesintheroom.
“IdroveitlastSaturdaynighttopracticeandoncetogotothestore.”Vernashrugged.“Madon’tgooutmuch.”
Kanelookedather.“DidyougiveLauriearideonSaturdaynight?”
“No,IhadtopickupacherrypiefromAuntBetty’sforMa.”Vernaglaredathim.“I’mnotallowedtogivepeopleridesinMa’scar.”
“I’mwaitingtoeathere.”Mrs.Hughesstubbedouthercigaretteinanoverflowingashtrayonthetableandglaredatthem.“Enoughwiththequestions.”
“Sure,thankyouforyourtime.We’llseeourselvesout.”Jennaturnedandwavedhimaway.
Outside,Kanetookafewdeepbreathsandturnedtoher.“Howdopeoplelivelikethat?”
“It’safirehazardandnowIfeellikeIhavecooties.”Jennapulledoutapacketofwipesfromherpocketandwashedherfaceandhands.Shethrustthemathim.“Here,don’tgetinthetruckuntilyouwashyourhands.Thatplaceneedstobecondemned.”Shestaredathim.“Isthereanythingwecando?”
Kaneshookhishead.“Nope,iftheyhadgarbagepiledupoutside,thecouncilcouldorderthemtocleanitupbutinside,theyhavetherighttoliveinsqualoriftheychooseto.”Hewipedhishandsandfacebeforeslippingbehindthewheel.“It’sashamewecan’teliminateVerna.NowI’vemetherandseeingthecircumstancesshe’slivingin,thepairofthemmakeaveryinterestingcouple.She’sstronganddominantandCoryisconstantlybelittledbyhismom.Wecan’tdiscountthemassuspects.”
“Youhaveechoedmythoughts.”Jennashuddered.“Butbrotherandsister?”
KaneturnedtheBeastaroundandheadedbacktothehighway.“Theybothknowthey’renotrelatedandheadmiresher.It’spossible.”
“Let’sseeifwecanhuntdownWilliams.”Jennawascheckingthedatabasesonthemobiledigitalterminal.“Ican’tfindanythingapartfromhisbackgroundcheckstobecomeaschoolbusdriver.Helooksclean.”Shecheckedoutafewthingsandthenleanedbackinherseat.“Thekidshaveaschoolfreedayfortheparadetoday,sonoschoolbus.Hemightbeathome.”
“It’sworthatry.”Kaneshookhishead.“I’mnothappywithathirty-year-oldguyhangingaroundsixteen-year-oldsandaskingthemondates.Hesoundslikeacreeptome.”
“I’msurprisedtheparentshaven’tcomplained.”Jennahuffedoutasigh.“Iguessashe’sbeenclearedtodrivethebus,he’snotadanger.”
Astonished,Kaneshotheraglance.“Thebackgroundcheckwouldhavebeenbasic,maybethisstate,maybejustthiscounty.Hecouldhavecommittedoffenseselsewhereorhe’sjustnotbeencaughtyet.”HecrawledalongMainandfinallyparkedashortdistancefromthegeneralstore.“I’dliketoknowwhathisinterestisinyounggirls.Usuallymenaren’tquitesobrazen.They’llgowatchthefootballtosneakapeekatthecheerleadersbutshowingupatthepractice?He’suptosomething,Icanfeelitinmybones.”
“So,doyouwanttotaketheleadinthequestioningandleanonhimabit?”Jennapushedonherhatandsmoothedherhairbehindherears.“Youmightmakehimtalk.”
“Yeah.”Kanesmiledather.“I’dlikethat.”
TWENTY-TWO
Itwasbusyintown,witheveryonegettingorganizedfortheparade.Peoplemilledaround,settinguptablestosellavarietyofgoods,fromflagstocookies.Excitementhummedthroughtheexcitedchatter.TheFallParadewasabigeventforBlackRockFallsandlikeJenna,thedayforeveryonehadstartedatdawn.ShewalkedbesideKanetothegeneralstoreandtheywentroundback.Thestorewasveryoldandoneofthefirstbuildingstobeconstructedintown,theapartment,oncetheresidenceoftheownerwasaccessedbyalongwoodenstaircase.Assheclimbedthecreakysteps,brownpaintflakedoffthehandraillikeconfetti,shesteppedwithcare.“Ihopethisstaircasewilltakeyourweight.”
“It’snotrotting,it’sjustoldisall.”Kaneexaminedthehandrail.“Alickofpaintandafewnailsanditwouldbefine.”Hetouchedhershoulder.“Ifthisguyisremotelyinvolved,Imighthavetogetdowntohislevel,sameasIdidwithHughesandtalkdirtytomakehimbelieveI’mjustlikehim.”
“Yeah,Iagree.Gettingasuspectonsideandmakingthembelieveyouareoflikemindlullsthemintoafalsestateofsecurity.Getatitandsaywhatyoumusttogettheinformationweneed.”Jennareachedthelandingandthumpedonthedoor.“Mr.Williams?Sheriff’sDepartment.”
ThedooropenedandahandsomemanwearingjeansandasweatshirtpeeredatJennawithahalf-smile.HisbrownhairhungoveroneofhisdarkbrowneyesandhegavehertheonceoverbeforestraighteningatthesightofKane.Jennaclearedherthroat.“Mr.Williams?”
“Yeahthat’sme,StanWilliams.”Hefrowned.“Isthereaproblem,Sheriff?”
“We’reinvestigatingthemurderofLaurieTurner.”KanespokeoverJenna’sshoulder.“Maywecomeinside?”
“Sure.”Williamssteppedbackallowingthearomaoffreshlybrewedcoffeetoflowoutside.“Theplaceisamess.There’snotmuchroomuphereformeandmyhobby.”
Jennapeeredaroundthesurprisinglylightroom.Itwascleanandtidybutonewallwascrammedwithphotographsofcheerleaders.Abenchheldphotographyparaphernaliaandalightscreenwassetupinonecorner.“Youhaveaphotographystudiouphere?”
“It’sapassion.”Williamssmiled.“I’dlovetocaptureyou.Youhaveremarkableskin,thecamerawillloveyou.”
NoticingthehardlineofKane’smouthasheexaminedtheimagesofyoungwomenonthewall,sheshookherhead.“Ah,thanksbutnothanks.Ihatehavingmyphotographtaken.Idon’tlikelookingbackandrealizinghowoldIlooknow.Photographyisn’tmything.YouneedtotalktoKane,he’salwaystakingshots.”SheturnedtostareoutthewindowtogiveKanethechancetotakethelead.“Whatagreatviewofthemountains.”
“Doyouinvitethecheerleadersheretohavetheirphotographstaken?”Kaneturnedtolookathim,withhisbacktothewindow.
“Yeah,sometimes.”Williamsstaredattheimagesasifentranced.“There’ssomanymemorieshere,Ican’ttakeanyofthemdown.”
“Ibet.”KanedroppedhisvoiceintoaconfidentialtoneandledWilliamstothefarcorner.Hepointedtoanimage.“She’spretty.Howdidyougetherupherealone?”
“They’recomfortablewithme.I’mpartofthefurniture.”WilliamsleanedclosertoKaneandchuckled.“Youshouldseetheoneswithouttheuniform.”
“Interesting.Maybeyoucouldshowmesometime,whenI’mnotwiththeboss?”Kanemovedalongthewallstaringattheimages.
“Sure,I’mfreeaftersixmostnights.”Williamssmiled.“IneverbelievedthatpeopleoflikemindwouldbeinlawenforcementbutIhavefriendsfromallwalksoflife,lawyers,judges,anddoctors,wouldyoubelieve?”
“Yeah,thejobdoesn’treflecttaste,doesit?”Kanesmiled.“Lookatme,you’dfiguremeforabeermanandyetIpreferaglassofpinotnoir.”
“Ilearnedlongagonottojudgeabookbyitscover.”Williamschuckled.“Butwestillhavetowatchourbacks.”
“Yeah,wesuredo.”Kaneraisedhiseyebrows.“DidyouphotographLaurieTurner?”
“Laurie?”Williamssmiled.“Yeahbutnothere.ItakephotographsofthesquadatthegymandatgamesbutherfatherwouldcausetroubleifIaskedhertocomehere.”HewinkedatKane.“Hedoesn’tunderstand.”
“Soarethephotosforyourownpleasureordoyouhaveagroupoflike-mindedenthusiasts?”Kanemovedslowlyalongthewall,leaningintoexaminetheimages.“Greatactionshots.They’reveryprofessional,nowonderthegirlswantyoutotaketheirphotographs.”
“Oh,Isupplyimagesfortheyearbookandlocalnewspaperplusanypromotionstheschoolwantstodo.Iofferthemfreeofchargeofcourse.”Williamsranafingeroverthefaceofoneofthegirls.“Somanyfavorites.Icouldneverchoosejustone,couldyou?”
“Theydosayvarietyisthespiceoflife.”Kanelookedathim.“TellmeaboutSaturdaynight.Youwereatthegymtakingpicturesofthecheerleaders.Didyoutalktoanyoneinparticular?”
“Italktoeveryone.”Williamswenttohiscomputer.“Igotsomegreatshots.”
“Doyoucaptureeverything?Thespectatorsforinstance?”
“Isuredo.”Williamslaughed.“Someofthemareinmyprivatecollection.”
“Aswe’reoflikemind,canIhaveacopyofthefile?”Kanepulledathumbdrivefromhispocket.“I’dliketoseewhowasthere.”Hehandedhimthestick.
“Iguess.”Williamslookedtakenaback.“Ihaven’thadtimetoeditthefile.Whataboutthesheriff?Idon’twantthisgettingintothewronghands.”
“That’sokay.”Kanesmiledathim.“Thesheriffisonlylookingforcrowdshots,toverifywhowaswatchingthepractice.”Heleanedinclose.“Unlessyouhaveanythingelsetoshare?”
JennastaredinamazementasWilliamsobedientlypushedthedriveintohislaptopandtransferredthefiles.Shemovedawayfromthewindowandwalkedslowlytowardthem.“Wheredidyougoafterthepractice?”
“Icamehome.”Williamsindicatedtohislaptop.“Idownloadedmyfilesandsendafewemails.AroundtenIwalkeddowntoAuntBetty’sforpieandcoffee.It’sbusyintownonSaturdaynightandIliketobewithpeople.”
Jennanodded.“Didyouspeaktoanyoneinparticular?”
“Ispoketostrangersmostly,tourists,Iguess.”Williamssmiledather.“I’masociableguy.”
“What’syourride?”Kanelookedathim.“Isitoneofthetrucksparkedoutback?”
“Yeah,theGMC.”Williamscheckedhiswatch.“Isthatall?IwanttograbbreakfastatAuntBetty’sbeforetheparade.”
Jennaheadedforthedoor.“Thankyouforyourtime.”
“Doyouhaveacard?”Kanewasn’tfollowingher.“I’dliketodropbysometime.”
“Sure.”Williamspulledonefromhiswalletandhandedittohim.“I’lllookforwardtoit.”
Jennaheadeddownthestepsandwalkedtothetruckinsilence.SheclimbedinandwaitedforKanetoslidebehindthewheel.“Don’ttellme,wecameheretoinvestigateasuspectinamurderandstumbledoveranotherdarnpedophilering?”Shethumpedherfistontheseat.“Inmytown?Again?”
“Maybe,maybenot.Hestillhadtimetocommitmurder,althoughhedoesn’tdriveaChryslersedan.”Kanepulledthetruckoutofthespaceandtheycrawledupmaintotheoffice.“We’llseewhat’sonthefileandifhe’ssendingoutunderageimagestoabunchoffriendsovertheinternet,includinglawenforcement,judges,andlawyers.Itmayjustbetalkbutifitisn’t,we’llturnitovertotheFBI.”
JennaleanedoverthebackseatandrubbedDuke’sears,hehadbeenfastasleepandyawnedexplosively.“Okaybutthatmeansyou’llhavetodropbyhisplaceandsittherewhileheshowsyoudisgustingimages.”
“Ifthere’sanythingsuspiciousonthefilehegaveme,I’llgowithCarter,thenwehavetheFBIinattheget-go.”Kaneshrugged.“Hecanturnitovertothesexcrimesunit,thenitwillbeJoshMartin’sproblem.”
“Okay.”Jennarubbedhertemples.“I’llneedtowritethisupandplanournextmove.Atleastallthecheerleaderswillbetogetherfortherestoftheday.Theyhavetheparadeandthenthere’saphotoshootwiththefootballteam.So,they’llbeoccupiedasagroupuntilatleastmidday.”Sheglancedathernotes.“I’dliketohaveachattoDaleCollinsandMarleneMooretoseeiftheyrecallanythingfromtheirconversationwithLaurieonSaturdaynightatthegym.”
“Thebesttimetofindthemwillbebeforetheygetorganized,aftertheparadethey’llsplitupandgoseetheattractionsaroundtown.”Kanestaredoutthewindow.“Someoftheparentswillbehereaswell,ifweneedstatements.Almosteveryonehasadayofftodayapartfromus.Eventhebankisclosed.”
Jennapushedopenthedoor.“IfeelasifI’vedoneaday’sworkalready.”Shecheckedherwatch.“It’sonlyten-thirty.”
“Yougoahead.”KanestareddownMain.“I’mgoingtograbsomethingfromthecakestallbeforeeverythingissold.”HehurriedawaywithDukeboundingbehindhim.
Shakingherhead,Jennawalkedupthesteps,throughtheglassdoorsandwenttogreetMaggieonthecounter.“Anythingformethismorning?”
“Nothingnew,no,butRowleyandRiohaveorganizedtheBlackwaterdeputiesinyourabsence.”Shewrinkledherbrow.“WehavefourfromBlackwaterandtwoofCrenshaw’sboyscominginfromLouanfortheduration.Rowleyreservedroomsatthemotelforthemsometimeago,andsomeofthemarewillingtoworkdoubleshiftsifyoufeedthemrightandgivethemabedforthenight.”
Relieved,Jennasmiled.“ThemayorinsistedIgetallthehelpIneededforthefestival,tofreeusupfortheTurnerinvestigation,soagreetoanythingtheyneedandsendtheaccountstohisoffice.”
ThefrontdooropenedandSandywalkedin,smilingbroadly.“Hey,Jenna,Maggie.”
“I’mafraidRowleyisn’there.He’soutorganizingdeputies.”Jennawavedhertowardheroffice.“I’mjustabouttobrewapotofcoffee,areyouallowedtodrinkcoffee?”
“Yeahsure.”Sandyrubbedherswollenbelly.“We’redoingjustfine.”Shesmiled.“Ididn’twanttomisstheparadeandI’llbegoingtoseemymomlater,butwhileJakeisondutyhere,I’mgoingtofinishupattheoldhouse.”
Jennafilledthecoffeepot,collectedcupsandthefixings,andsetthemonherdesk.“Yousoundlikeyou’remissingwork.”
“Me?”Sandyshookherhead.“Notatall.Theranchkeepsmebusy,nowwehavechickensandhorsestotend.ItisremotethoughandI’matowngirlbutIhavethedogtokeepmecompany.Davewassayinghe’sgoingtohelpJakebeefupthesecurity.Thehouseissafeenoughbutwiththebabyandall,I’dlikeaperimeterfencealertaswell.”
Jennanodded.“Well,oncewe’vesolvedthiscase,Kane’syourmanandI’msureifShane’snotbusy,he’llbeovertohelpaswell.”
“Thatwouldbegood.”SandytookthecupJennaoffered.“Thanks.IhopeI’mnotholdingyoubackfromworking?”
Jennasatdownandshookherhead.“No,we’rejusttakingafewminutestoregroupandit’sbeenalongtimesincebreakfastforKane.He’llbeheresoonwitharmfulsofcakestokeephimselfgoing.”Shegrinned.“Ihadnoideamenatesomuchfood.”
“Yeah,sinceJakebuiltthegymoutattheranchandwithhisvisitstothedojo,heisalwayshungryaswell.”Sandychuckled.“Buthesurelooksgood.”Shesippedhercoffee.
“Wholooksgood?”KanecameintotheofficeanddumpedbagsontoJenna’sdesk.“Hmmcoffee.”Hewentstraighttothecountertopouracupandthendroppedintoachair.
Jennapushedthecreamandsugartowardhim.“Girltalk.”ShewinkedatSandy.“Whatdidyoubuy?”
“Everything.”Kanepulledabagtowardhim.“Youcanhaveanythingyoulikebutthebananacreampieismine.”
“IhearJake’svoiceoutinthehallway.”Sandyfinishedhercoffee.“I’llhaveaquickwordwithhimandbeonmyway.Thanksforthecoffee.”Shegavethemawaveandhurriedoutthedoor
“Jakehaseverythingundercontrolhere.”Kanedugintohispiewithaplasticspoonandsighedindelight.“Thecheerleadersareinagroupintheparkandwaitingforthefootballteamtoarrive.Wecancatchthembeforetheystarttheparade.Itdoesn’tbeginuntiltwelve.They’dplannedforeleven-thirtybuttheyhavesomeproblemswiththesoundsystematthepodiumsetupforthemayor,sowehaveplentyoftime.”
“Good.”Jennascannedhernotes.“IwantRowleyandRiocheckingtheMVDforgreenChryslersedansinthearea.”
Jennastaredatthemoundoffoodonthetable.Itsmelledwonderfulbut,shewasn’thungry.ShepeeredintoabagcontainingindividualcaramelpecanpiesMaybejusttheone.
TWENTY-THREE
Hefoundhisgirlinthecrowdofpeopleheadingintotownandpulledherintoanalleyway.“Areyousureyouwanttodothis?Beckyseemslikeanicegirl.”
“Anicegirl,huh?”Hisgirl’smouthturneddownandhereyesflashedwithanger.“Ofcourse,they’renicetoyourfacebutshewantstomakeyoulookajerk.She’sprobablyaskedoneofherfriendstofollowyoutotakepicturestoplasteralloverherFacebookpagetoproveabetorsomething.You’reatrophytothem,nothingmore,allyouguysare.Theydon’tcareaboutyourfeelingstheyjustwanttobringyoudown.They’rejustlikeyourma.”Sheleanedintohim.“I’mtheonlyoneyoucantrust.Wehavesecretsbetweenusandtheybindustogether.I’llnevertreatyoubadbutifyoulovemelikeyousayyoudothenyou’dcarethatthey’remeantome.Mylifewouldbebetterwithoutthem.Ican’tkillthemwithoutyou.”
Ashiverofexcitementcurledinhisbelly.Itwaslikedroppingdownrealfastonarollercoaster.Shealwaysmadehimfeelthesamerush,asifhe’dbeenstrappedtothefrontofafreighttrain.“Okay.Areyousurenoonewillbeathome?Idon’tseeanyforsalesignsoutside,areyousureit’sempty?”
“I’msure.I’vebeenbyafewtimesanditsempty.Thepeoplethatlivedthereleavethekeyinthesameplaceeachtime.Ifigureit’sforthehandymanorsomeonetogetintofixuptheplace.”Shegrinnedathim.“I’vebeeninside.It’sperfect.Therearenewmattressesonallthebedsstillwrappedinplastic.There’scleaningproductsinthelaundry,wecancleanuprealgoodbeforeweleave.”
HenoddedtryingtoshowenthusiasmbuthelikedBecky,shedidn’tseematallnastyandhe’dgottenonwellwithher.Beckyhadbeenveryenthusiasticaboutadatewithhimandhadkissedhimpassionatelyunderthebleachers.Hehadn’tdaredmentionthekiss.HisgirlwouldgocrazyandstabBeckyahundredtimes.Hecouldhandlewatchingthegirlsbeingstrangledbutthestabbingmadehimsicktohisstomach.Heliftedhisgirl’schinandlookedathertoconvincehimselfhecouldn’tlivewithouther.“I’mworried,killingsomeoneinthemiddleoftownwithsomanypeoplearound,thatsomeonewillseeusleaving.”
“We’llleavebythebackdoor,it’ssurroundedbytreesandIalreadyhaveakey.TheylefttwohanginginthelockandIjusttookone.I’llputitbacklaterandIlefttheotheroneonanailbesidethedoor.I’llkillthepowerwhenIgoinsidesobringaflashlight.TakeBeckyupstairs,there’sabedroomontheleftatthetop,ithasabigclosetandI’llhideinthere.GetherwithherbacktotheclosetandI’lldotherest.”Shegiggled.“Thenwecanstripheroffandmakehersitandwatchus.We’llcleanup,I’llreturnthekey,andwe’llslipoutthebackdoor.Youcanburnherthingslikebeforeandnoonewillknowathing.Shecanstaythereuntiltheysellthehouseandbythetimetheyfindher,we’llbehuntingdownVickyPerez.”
Hewipedthebackofhishandoverhismouthandshuffledhisfeet.“ThesheriffhasbeentalkingtoeveryonewhowasatthegymonSaturdaynight.Doyoufigureshesuspectsus?”
“Us?”Shebarkedalaugh.“No,ofcoursenot.Wearejustassweetaspieandmuchsmarterthantheythink.They’llbelookingforanoldman,apervert,asexoffender.EveryoneknowsLauriewaseasyandsoaretheothers,soitwillshowuptheywereplayingaround.”Shegrinned.“Inanycasethey’llbehuntingdowntheguywhoownsthebriefsandblamehim.”Sheranafingerdownhischeek.“Don’tforget,weneedmoreofthem,soselectcarefully.Bythetimewe’vefinished,thesheriffwillhavesomanysuspectsshewon’tknowwhattodo.”Shepoutedathim.“Iwanttostayherewithyoubutwehavetogo,orwe’llbemissed.I’llwalkaroundthebackofthebuildingandcomeoutbehindthebank.Wecan’tbeseentogether.”Shewentontiptoestokisshim.“I’llseeyoutonight.”Shescamperedawaydownthealleywayturningoutofsight.
Hestaredafterher,amixtureofexcitementanddreadcrawlingoverhimlikeanants’nest.HepushedalldoubtfromhismindandimaginedBeckyproppedupagainstawall,naked,eyesstaringintonothingnesswatchinghimwithhisgirl.Allofasudden,sunsetcouldn’tcomefastenough.
TWENTY-FOUR
JennalookedatKaneoverherdesk.“Handoverthethumbdrive,wemightaswellscantheimageswhilewe’retakingabreak.”
“Wewon’thavetime.”KanecollectedtheremainingpurchasesandtookthemtothesmallrefrigeratorinJenna’soffice.“We’llhavetowalktotheparkifwewanttospeaktoCollinsandMoore.Mainisclosedofffortheparadeasoffiveminutesago.”
“Okay,I’lluploadthemtoourfilesandwecanlookatthemlater.”Jennafinishedhercoffeeandsighed.“Mycruiser’sparkedaroundback,wecouldtakethebackroads?”
“Itwouldbequickertowalk.”Kanewashedupthecupsandturnedthemupsidedownonthesink.
“Hey.”Carterknockedonthedoor.“Youplanningoneatingtonight?”
Jennasmiledathim.“Yeahbutwehavetoheadhomeandtendthehorsespluswehaveanongoingmurdercase.”
“Well,youhavetoeatandI’minvitingyoubothtojoinme,Jo,andJaimeatTheCattleman’sHotelRestaurantfordinneratseven.”CartershookhisfingeratJenna.“Don’ttellmeyouhavenothingtowear,Iknowyoubothkeepnumerouschangesofclotheshereattheoffice.”
“It’slovelyofyoutoaskbutwecan’t.”Jennashookherhead.“We’restillhuntingdownsuspects.Wejustdon’thavethetimetogobacktotheranchandthentoeatoutatTheCattleman’sHotel,ittakesanhourtogetamealthere.”
“Yeahyoudo.”Carterrestedonehipontheedgeofherdesk.“I’llgotendyourhorses.Ifyouletmetakeyourcruiser,I’llbeabletogetthroughthesecurityandbebackhereintimetoshowerandchangefordinner.”HeglanceddownatDuke.“I’llevenletDukeintoyourbackyard.Helikesme,he’llcomenoworries.”
JennaraisedaneyebrowinquestionatKaneandheshrugged.ShelookedatCarterandnodded.“Well,Iguesswedohavetoeatanditmeanswe’llbeintownifwe’reneeded.”Shetookthecruiserkeysoutofherdeskdrawerandtossedthemtohim.“We’llseeyouatseven.”
“Yousurewill.”CarterlookedatKane.“I’lldropbyandcollectDukearoundfive,thatshouldgivemeplentyoftime.”
“I’llleavehimwithMaggie.”Kanesmiled.“Hedoesn’tlikethefireworks,sowillbemorethanhappytobeathometonight.”HelookedatJenna.“Weneedtogo.”
Jennastoodandpulledonherjacket.“I’mrightbehindyou.”ShefollowedKaneandCarterouttheoffice.
Mainhadtransformedintoapromenadefilledwithpeople,kidswithballoonsandcottoncandy.Brightlycoloredbuntinghungacrosstheroadandfromeverystorefrontintown.Thesidewalkwaspackedwithstallssellingeverythingimaginableandtownsfolkandtouristsmovedfromplacetoplaceinswarmslikebeesattractedtothebrightcolors.Loudmusicblaredoverspeakersattachedtostreetlightsinterspersedwithannouncementsfromthefestivalcommittee.Theywalkedbyahastilybuiltpodiumforthemayortoaddressthecrowdsandpassedthevansusedbylocalmediastations.
ShekeptclosebehindKane.Hissizewasanadvantageinacrowdandpeoplepartedtolethimbyashestrodealong.Ifshekeptdirectlybehindhim,shehadaclearpath.Sheriffornot,hersmallframewaslostinaseaofpeople.Shesidesteppedamotherwithkidstrailingbehindherholdinghands,theirmouthsringedwiththeunmistakableredofatoffeeapple.Onesmallgirlhadthestickfromhercottoncandystuckinherhair.Excitementthrummedthroughthetownandeveryonehadasmileforherasshewalkedby.
TheyfinallyreachedtheparkandJennastaredinamazement.Footballteamsstoodatoneendwaitingtoheadtotheirfloat.Amarchingbandwaswarmingupwithanawfulassortmentofsoundsandthecheerleadersfussedovertheiruniformsandpompoms,somepracticingmovesordoingpointingandgiggling.Insidetheperimeterofthepark,itwaseasiertomoveandJennapulledoutherphoneandlocatedtheimagesofCollinsandMoore.SheshowedthescreentoKane.“NormallyI’dsaysplitupbutI’llgetlostinthecrowd.Ithinkit’sbestwestaytogether.”
“Thecheerleadersquadsareclose,sowe’llseeifMarleneMooreiswiththem.”Kanepeeredoverthetopofhissunglassesandnarrowedhisgaze.“Darn,theyalllookthesame.”
Jennaheadedinthesquad’sdirection.“Thenwe’llask,thegirlswillknowher.”Shewalkeduptothefirstgirlshecametoandheldoutherphone.“HaveyouseenMarlenetoday?”
“Yeah,she’sovertherewithVicky.”Thegirlpointed.“StandingnexttoBecky.”
Jennathankedherandledthewayaroundthegroupofgirls.Astheyapproached,BeckyandMarlenestoppedtalkingandnudgedVickyintheribs.Jennapastedasmileonherfaceandpulledouthernotebookandpen.“MarleneMoore,mayIhaveawordwithyou?”
“Sure.”Marleneshruggedandfollowedheroutofearshotoftheothers.
“IbelieveyouwereatthegymonSaturdaynightspeakingwithDaleCollinsandLaurieTurner.Canyourememberwhatyouweretalkingabout?”
“Maybe.”Marlenestoodwithherpompomsonherhips.“Idon’twanttospeakillofthedeadbutLauriewasaflirt.ShehadbeentalkingaboutseeingWyattwatchingherinthecrowd,soshedraggedmeovertospeaktoDale.HeonlyopensthekioskforusduringpracticeandIfigurehegetstiredofgirlshittingonhimallthetime.”Shelookedawaywithaboredexpression.“Hisauntusuallyrunsthekioskbutshedoesn’tthinkit’sworthhertimetoopenitforacoupleofhoursforus,soDaleopensit.”
“Really?”Kanegaveheraquizzicalstare.“Don’tallthemembersofthefootballteamhaveadmirers?”
“Yeah,buttheyonlygowithcheerleaders.”Marlenetouchedherhair.“Isthatall?”
Jennashookherhead.“Canyourecallanythingatallthatwassaid?DidDalemakeadatewithLaurie,orplantomeether?”
“No,hehasn’taskedanyonetotheFallFestivalBallasyet.”Marlenerolledhereyes.“Helikestokeephisminionswaiting,Iguess.”
Jennasmiled.“So,he’snotyourtype?”
“Dale?”MarlenelaughedandlookedupatKane.“Iprefertall,dark,andhandsome.”Shepointedinthedirectionofatallblondteenager.“Asyoucansee,Daleistheopposite.”
“Okay.”Jennafoldedhernotebook.“Thankyouforyourtime.”Shehandedheracard.“Ifyoucanthinkofanythingelse,callme.”
“Sure.”MarlenewalkedawayandJennasawthecardfluttertotheground.
“Thefootballteamisgettingreadytoheadtothefloat.”Kanehustledthroughthecheerleaders.
Jennaranbehindhimandtheyreachedthefootballteamastheycongregatedatthefarendofthepark,inthedogwalkingenclosure.ShemadeoutDaleCollins’blondhairandheadedinhisdirection.Asshemadeherwaythroughtheteam,Kanemovedaheadofherandledhimovertothefence.Shesmiledattheconfusedlookontheyoungman’sface
“Yeah,sureIdo.”Collinsfrowned.“It’sterribleaboutLaurie.Haveyoufoundwhokilledheryet?”
Jennashookherhead.“Notyet.Whatdidyoutalkabout?”
“Thespecials.”Collinsstaredathisshoes.“Iaskedherhowhertruckwasgoing.Iteasedherabitaboutitbeingaguy’sride.Shelaughed.ThenextthingMarlenecameoverandtoldherWyattwasspyingonheragain,andLauriewentbacktositwiththesquad.”HeliftedhisgazetoJenna.“Ididn’tseeherafterthat,Ihavetocleanthekioskafterthebreak.Icountthemoneyandlockitup.Iwenthomesoonafter.”
“So,youdon’thangbacktochattothecheerleadersafterpractice?”Kanewaswatchinghimclosely.
“Nah.”Collinsgrinned.“Afterthegameisthebesttime,wheneveryoneisallpumpedupandwantingtocelebrate.Itryandkeepasfarawayfromthemaspossibleduringtheweek.Ineedtokeepmygradesupandthey’readistraction.”Heglancedoverhisshoulderasthedecked-outfloatpulledupatthecurb.“Igottago.”Heturnedandjoggedaway.
JennalookedupatKane.“IwantedtohaveachatwithWyattCooperaswell.”
“Thatwillhavetowaitforlater.”Kanewaspeeringovertheheadsofthecrowd.“Assoonasthemayordoeshisspeech,thefloatsheaddownMainanddoaturnaroundattheshowgroundsbeforecomingback.We’llcatchhimthen.”
Astheyheadedbacktothesidewalk,thecrowdsquashedinaroundJenna.AsensationofclaustrophobiagrippedherandshepulledonKane’sarmtostophimdisappearingintothethrong.“Dave,I’mgettingswampedbackhere.”
“Hangontomybelt,we’llcrossMainbeforetheparadestartsandtakethebackroadtotheoffice.”Kaneturnedandgrinnedather.“Unlessyouwantapiggyback?”
Rollinghereyes,Jennatwirledherfingerstomakehimturnaround.“Thebeltwillbefine.”ShegrippedhisbeltandtheymovedthroughthecrowdandthenextthingshefoundherselfinsideAuntBetty’sCafé.“Whatarewedoinghere?Youhaveenoughcakestofeedanarmyattheoffice.”
“Yeahbutaswewerepassing,IthoughtI’ddropinwhileeveryoneisoutsidewatchingtheparade.”Hegrinnedather.“Wecanworkanywhere,andit’sanicequietplacetositandgothroughtheimagefiles.WecanaccessthemonourphonesandIknowyoudon’tlikeeatingcakeforlunch,soyou’llbeabletogetsomethinghere.”
Jennasniffedtheair.“Andyousmelledthearomaofchiliwaftingdownthesidewalk.”Sheshookherhead.“Okay,youwin.”Shewavedhimtoatable.
TWENTY-FIVE
Theyspentthenextcoupleofhoursgoingthroughatonofimagesofcheerleaders.Jennahadtoadmit,someofthephotographsborderedonunsavorybutthensomepeoplewouldlookatthemasactionshotsofacheerleadingsquad’sroutine.Itwasallintheeyeofthebeholder.Shelookedupwearilyfromherphone.“FindanythingsuggestingWilliamsisapedophile?”
“NopebutifIhadadaughterandIthoughtmenweresharingsomeoftheseshots,Iwouldn’tbetoohappy.TheroutineshappeninasplitsecondandareinnocentenoughbutWilliamssomehowmakesthemindecent.”Kanerubbedhischinthoughtfully.“I’mstillnotconvincedthere’snotmoretohimthanmeetstheeye.Heisobsessedwithcheerleadersanditcouldeasilyleadtomurder.”Heopenedhishands.“Thinkingoutoftheboxhere.Ifheluredonetohisapartmentandsherefusedhisadvances,stranglinghertokeepherquietissomethingthatI’veseenbefore.”
Jennaclosedthefilesandlookedathim.“Thatwillbehardtoprove.IdidnoticehehadasetofpompomsonhisdeskbutassumedtheywerepropsforhisphotographsbutnowweknowLaurie’saremissingfromherbackpackitthrowssuspiciononhim.”
“We’llneedtogetclosertoStanWilliamsandseehowheticks.”Kaneleanedbackinhischair.“I’llcallCarterandconvincehimtocomewithmetopayWilliamsavisittonightafterdinner.You’llbewantingtochatwithJo,I’msure.”
Jennanodded.“It’sgoingtobetheonlytimewehavefree.IfRioandRowleyfindanyChryslersedansintownsimilartotheonethatgaveLauriearide,we’llbespendingtherestoftheweekhuntingdowntheirowners.”Shestretchedandglancedatherwatch.“We’llgofindWyattCooperandthenheadbacktotheoffice.Iguessyou’dbettergrabsomethingforDukeasTyisgoingtotakehimhomesoon.”
“See,youdocareaboutmydog.”Kanetuckedhisphoneinsidehispocketandstood.“Iknewhe’dgrowonyoueventually.”
Laughing,Jennastood.“I’vealwayslikedDuke.Imeanwhowouldn’tlovethosesadbrowneyes?I’vejustneverbeeninapositiontohavepets.It’saresponsibilityIcouldn’trisktaking,likemarriageandkids.Lifeisdifferentnow.Yeah,westillfacedangersbutwehavereliablepeoplearounduswhocare.I’dneverhadthatbefore.Formefriendshipandloyaltycameataprice.”
“Yeah,wellthat’sallbehindusnow.”Kanesmiledather.“AllIhavetoworryaboutismurderingpsychopaths.”
Jennadroppedapileofbillsonthetableandheadedtothedoor.“Look,thefootballteamfloatispullingupattheendofthepark.Let’shavealittlechatwithWyattCooper.Ifwecanmakeitthroughthecrowds,we’llbeabletocatchhimbeforeheheadsoff.”
Althoughthecrowdshadeasedalittle,thefootballteamhadscatteredleavingonlyafewoftheplayersinsmallgroupschatting.JennaspottedDaleCollinswithasmallgroupoffriendsandheadedinhisdirection.Shenoticedhissmilevanishassheapproached.“Sorrytobotheryouagain.DoesanyoneknowwherewecanlocateWyattCooper?”
“Hetookoff.”Collinsshrugged.“Hesaidhehadsomethingtodolater.Hesuredon’tseemtooupsetaboutLaurie.”Hefrowned.“Atleast,therestoftheteamwillbeatherfuneral,topayourrespects.”
“Whatdoyoumeanbythatremark?”Kane’seyesnarrowed.“There’snoplansforafuneralatthisstage.Didhesaysomething?”
“Yeah,hetoldushewouldn’tbegoingtoherfuneral.”Collinsstraightened.“Hedidn’tgiveareason.Whydon’tyouaskhimyourself?”
“I’llbesureto.”Kane’sgazemovedovertheotherswatchingtheinteraction.“Wehaveateamofdeputiesfromothercountieshereforthefestival,sodon’ttrytobuyliquorattheshowgroundsagainthisyear.Wedon’twanttofindanyofyouboyslockedupinthecellscomemorning.”
“We’llbesuretorememberthat,Deputy.”Collinsturnedhisbackandwalkedtowardanothergroupofplayers.
AnnoyedbyCollins’arrogance,Jennastaredafterhim.“Thatwentwell.”
“Ifigurewehavesomeoneflyingundertheradar.”Kanerubbedthebackofhisneck.“Theproblemisnoneofthepeoplewe’vespokentohaveraisedanyredflags,withtheexceptionofWilliams.”Hewavedahandatthemarchingbandfollowingthecheerleadersintothepark.“Someonehereknowssomething.OneofthesekidsknockedLaurie’sphoneoutofherhandandI’mconvincedwhoeverdidit,isinvolvedwithhermurder.”
SeeingthewaythestudentsgatheredtogetheringroupsgaveJennapausetoconsiderwhatKanehadsaid.Sheshruggedandfollowedhimfromthepark.“Maybenot.”Shethoughtbacktohertimeatschoolandturnedtohim.“SayoneofthemdislikedLaurieandwaspartofapranktohaveherwalkhome?Theremayhavebeenasmallgroupoftheminvolved,oneoftheguysdisableshertruckandoneofthegirlsbumpsintoher.Lookaroundyou,everyoneischattingingroups.IrememberthishappeningwhenIwasatschool,intheparkinglot,onthewayhome,waitingforthebus,we’dchatforages.”
“Yeah,Iremember.”Kaneremovedhishatandscratchedhisheadbeforereplacingit.“Why?”
“IfIrecall,whenwespoketoHughes,heknewjustaboutstraightawaythatLaurie’sphonewastoastandhejustplaceditinaplasticbagandhelockedupandwenthome.”
“Yeah,that’swhatIremember.”Kanestoppedwalkingandturnedtolookather.“Where’sthisleading,Jenna?”
Likeajigsawpuzzleslippingintoplace,Jennasmiledathim.“Well,hesaidhedidn’tseeanyoneintheparkinglot.Hesaiditwasemptyanddarkwhenhedroveby.Wherewaseveryone?Whyweren’ttheresomekidsstillhangingaroundwhenLauriecouldn’tstarthertruckanddecidedtowalkhome?”
“MaybebecauseLauriewasinsidelongerthanheremembered.”Kaneshookhisheadslowly.“There’snowayagroupofkidscouldcommitamurderlikethat.Doyouthinkthey’reallinvolved?Noway.Oneofthemwouldflipoutwiththestress.”
Unconvinced,Jennastaredathim.“Lookbackinhistory.Cultfiguresinfluencedpeopletodoterriblethings,evencommitsuicide.Rightnow,I’mopentoanysuggestions.Wehaveayounggirlbrutallymurderedinthemorgueandpracticallynoevidenceandwhatwedohavewasprobablyplanted.”
Whentheyarrivedattheoffice,JennafoundRowleyatthefrontcounterandRioupdatingfilesonthecomputer.AsKaneheadedintoherofficetocallCarteraboutvisitingWilliamslater,shecheckedherwatchandthenleanedonthecounter.“Bringmeuptodateandthengohomeandtakeabreakbeforeyournextshift.”
“Sure.”RowleyturnedhisiPadaroundtoshowher.“ThesearethesevengreenorgrayChryslersedansofaroundthesamemodelintown.WeknowabouttheonethatMrs.Hughesownsandtrackeddownfive.Threeoftheseareinuseandtwoareinbarnsandhaven’tbeendrivenforyears.Thelastoneisintheusedcaryardhereintown,it’sbeenthereforaboutthreemonths.”Hepointedtothethreenamesonhislist.“WevisitedallthreeoftheownersandallhaveanalibiforSaturdaynight.Theywereallathomewithfamilymembersandallthreeownersareintheirlatesixties.Nooneelsedrivestheirvehicles.”
Jennanodded.“Goodwork.”Sheliftedherchinandsighed.“SothatreallyleavestheHughes’vehicle.”Sheslappedthetable.“You’dbettergetalonghomebutI’llbeintownforawhiletonightsoyoudon’thavetobebackuntilsix-thirty.I’llbeatTheCattleman’sHotelwhileKanetalkstoasuspectwithCarter.”
“Thanks.”Rowleysmiled.“I’llhavetimetodropSandyattheoldhousebeforeIcomeback.”
“That’sgood.”Jennasighed.“Now,I’lltryandfigureoutawayIcangetasearchwarranttoseizetheHughes’vehicletoseeifWolfecanfindanyofLaurieTurner’sDNAinside.”
“Imighthavethatsorted.”Riowalkedtoherside.“VernahasadmittedtodrivingthevehicleonSaturdaynight,shedidn’tlikeLaurie,andherbrotherwasoneofthelastpeopletoseeheralive.Addtothis,webelievethekillerhadanaccomplicewhoknockedthephonefromLaurie’shandandCoryhadplentyoftimetodisablehertruckduringthepractice.Ifigurewehaveprobablecause.”
Impressed,Jennasmiledathim.“Writeitupandseeifyoucancatchajudgetoissueawarrant.I’llbeintowntonight,soyoucangetonhometoo,onceyougetback.”
“Jenna.”Kanewalkedoutherofficeandwenttoherside.“CarterhadKalorunStanWilliamsthroughthesexoffenders’databaseandhisnamecameupinasealedFBIjuviedocument.Wecan’tuseitagainsthimbutitwasaheadsup.Seemsthatasafifteen-year-old,Williamswascaughtmolestingfive-year-oldgirlsatabirthdayparty.”
TWENTY-SIX
SandyRowleygaveJakeakissgoodbyeashelefttheiroldhomeintown.“Go,I’llbefine.IhavemyThermosandcookiesifIgethungry.WhenI’mdonehere,I’llwatchthefireworksfromthefrontwindow.”
“Stayinsideandcallme,ifyouneedme.”Rowleytouchedhercheek.“I’llbeattheoffice.”
Shegavehimalittleshove.“Go,Jennawillbewaitingforyou.I’llseeyousoon.”
“Closethedoorbehindme.”Rowleymoveddownthestairs,turningtowatchherbeforehehurriedtohisSUV.
He’dinsistedoncheckingalltheroomsbeforeheleft.Sinceshe’dfoundoutshewascarryingtheirchild,he’dbeensuperoverprotectivebutshedidn’tmind.Havingsuchakind,lovinghusbandwasawonderfulgiftshevaluedgreatly.Sheglancedaroundthehouse.Itwasasneatasapinbutthedeliveryguyshadleftpapersandfootprintseverywhere.Thehousebelongedtothesheriff’sdepartment,willedtothembyadeputykilledondutysomeyearsago.Tomaketheinsidenice,Jennahadreplacedthethreemattresses,bedlinen,anddrapes.Jakehadpaintedtheinteriorduringasix-monthslowperiodafterthemeltandnowitwasreadyforthenewoccupantstoarrive.ZacRioandhistwinsiblingswouldbemovinginthefollowingweekend.
Shemovedfromroomtoroom,makingsureeverythingwasspickandspan.Thehecticday,watchingtheparade,andvisitinghermotherhadexhaustedher.Thehousehadanempty,coldfeelaboutitsincethey’dremovedalltheirpossessions.Aradiowouldhavebeennicetobreakthesilenceashearingthecreeksandwhinesoftheoldhousewasputtinghernervesonedge.Shefinishedherchores,stowedawaythecleaningutensils,andleanedagainstthekitchencounterdecidingwhattodotopassthetime.Shecheckedherwatchwillingthetimetogobyfaster.Jakewouldn’tbebytocollectheruntilatleasteleven,hesaidhisshiftfinishedatten-thirtybuthe’dspendtimechattingwithwhoevertookoverthenextshiftandbythetimehearrivedhome,hewasusuallyaboutanhourlaterthanexpected.ShepouredacupofhotchocolatefromherThermosandwentupstairstothebackbedroom.Herfavoritestuffedleatherchairwassetinfrontofthewindow,shecouldwatchthecomingsandgoingsintown.Shecurledup,finishedherhotchocolate,andmusthavedozedofftosleep.Somethingwokeheranddisorientedinthedarkness,sheglancedaroundforsomemomentstogetherbearingsbeforestaringatherwatch.Thedigitalreadouttoldheritwasalittlebeforenine.Thelightsinthehallwayhadbeenonwhenshecameintotheroombutshe’dsatindarknesstobestobservetheviewoutsidethewindow.
Perhapsabulbwasout.Shestoodtoturnonthelight.Sheflickedtheswitchoffandon.Nothing.Awaveofpanicsurgedthroughheratanunusualsoundfromdownstairs.She’dlivedinthishouseforoversixmonthsbeforemovingtotheranchandshecouldidentifyjustabouteverynoiseintheoldhouse.Heartpounding,sheslidbackintotheroomandpressedherbackagainstthewall.Thecreakcameagainandaslightjinglelikethesoundofkeys.IfithadbeenJakeorevenJennadroppingby,they’dhavecalledoutandturnedonlights,notcreptaround.Someonewasinthehouse.
Thesoundoffootstepscameagain,likebootsonthepolishedfloor.Inblindpanic,Sandysearchedherpocketsforherphone.Shecouldseeitinhermind’seyeinsideherpurseonthecounterbesidetheThermos.Howhadsomeonegotteninside?Jakehadinsistedshetakethekeytothefrontdoorwithherratherthanreturnittoitsplaceabovethedoor.Sheplacedonehandonherswollenbelly.Iftheintrudermovedintoaroom,shecouldslipdownthestairsandgoforhelp.Footstepsmovedthroughthekitchen.Cabinetdoorsopenedandclosed.Terrified,Sandy’sbreathingcamesofast,shefearedsomeonewouldhearher.
Thenoisecameagainandthenafamiliarsound,asnaplikesomeonepullingonsurgicalgloves.Coldshiversrandownherspineasthefootstepscamecloser.Eachstepprecise,andtakingthestairsinacontrolledpacewithnorush.TheyknowI’mhereandthey’recomingtohurtme.
Withoutaweapon,Sandyhadnothingtousetodefendherself.Shemoveddeeperintotheshadowsandheldherbreath.Sherecognizedthesqueakyhingeofthedoortothefirstbedroomatthetopofthestairsandthesoundofsomeoneslidingopentheclosetdoor.Nowwasherchance.Sheslippedouttheroomandwithherpulsethunderinginherears,creptalongthehallway.Justasshereachedtheopendoortothefirstbedroom,theoldgrandfatherclockinthehallwaydownstairsstrucknine.Terrorhadherbythethroatandsweatbeadedonherbrowasshedashedtowardthestairs.Footstepsthunderedbehindherandoutofthedarkness,someonegrabbedherhairtearingherscalp.Thenextinstant,painshotthroughherfaceasherheadslammedintothedoorframe.Bloodranintohereyeandshestaggeredbackthewayshe’dcome,feelingalongthewall,tryingtogetaway.Aloudclangbrokethesilenceandrangthroughherheadinawaveofsuffering.Shefelltoherknees,androlledintoaballandplayeddeadtoprotectherunbornchild.
Onlyheavybreathingcameandthensomeonetookherbythefeetanddraggedherinsidearoom.Abootscrapedpastherandshesqueezedhereyesshuttight.Shecouldsensesomeoneleaningoverherandheldherbreath.Lungsbursting,shewaitedforthemtoleavetheroom.Thedoorslammedshutastheyranbackdownthehallway.Sandyswipedathereyes,nauseousanddizzy.Aloneinthedark,theskyoutsidethewindowlitupinastreakofgreen.Thefireworkdisplaydancedacrosshervisionbeforeeverythingwentblack.
TWENTY-SEVEN
NervousexcitementthrummedthroughBeckyPowellasshesteppedinsidethelibrarytomeetherdate.Shespottedhimatonce,leaningcasuallyagainstabookcase,flickingthroughpagesofabook.Heraisedbotheyebrowsatherandwalkedoutintothehallway.Shefollowedhimdownthebackstairsandhewaitedforheratthefiredoor.Shesmiledathim.“Hasshefollowedyouagain?”
“Yeah,butshedidn’tseemeleave.”Hepulledherclosetohim.“I’vefoundaplacewecango.It’sniceandprivate.Didyoubringyourpompoms?”
Beckygrinned.“Yeah,they’reinmybackpack.I’mguessingyouwantmetodoaroutineforyou…arealprivateroutine?”
“Somethinglikethat.”Hecuppedherchinandkissedher.“We’dbetterslipawaybeforeshenoticesI’mmissing.Leaveyourridehere,Ihaveatruckoutback.Keeptotheshadowsandwhenyougetinside,duckdownsoshecan’tseeyouifshehappenstolookoutthewindowwhenIdriveby.”
Whenhishandclosedaroundherfingersshenoddedinsilentagreement.
“Niceandquiet.”Hepushedopenthefiredoorandledheroutside.
Heartthumpingwithanticipation,Beckyfollowedhimintothecoolnight.Shehadn’thadtoomuchluckdatinganyoneoflateandstealinghimfromunderthenoseofoneofhisadmirersmadeitallthesweeter.Shecouldn’tstopgrinningasshehurriedaroundtheedgeofthebuildingandclimbedintohistruck.Asshehunkereddown,hetookoffslowlyandshecouldseethestreetlightsonMainblinkpastaboveher.“Wherearewegoing?”
“Notfarbutwe’llhavetosneakintothisplace.”Heglanceddownather.“It’sanemptyhouse,butthey’veleftallthefurniture.Itwillberealcomfortableforustogettoknoweachother.”
Beckygiggled.“Oh,Ican’twait.I’veneverbeenonadatelikethisbefore.Areyousurenooneisgoingtocomeby?”
“Certain.”Heslowedthetruckandpulledinunderatree.“Remember,notasoundandwesticktotheshadows.Idon’twanttheneighborstoseeusorthey’llcallthecops.Icamebyearlierandunlockedthebackdoor,sowe’regonnasneakinthere.”Hehandedherasmalllanternfromthebackseat.“Oncewe’reinside,I’llusemyflashlighttogetupstairsbutwhenIclosethedrapes,wecanturnonthelantern.Itwillberealcozy.”
Becky’sheartracedasshefollowedhimthroughthelongshadowsupadrivewayanddownasmallpathwaytoadoor.Theymovedinsideandshesmotheredagiggle.Thehousesmelledoffurniturepolish,andcleanairasifithadbeenwellaired.Followingtheflashlightbeamtheyheadedupstairsandastheyclimbedhigher,thehandholdinghersbecamedamp.Shelikedthathewasnervousbeingwithherandsneakingintoanemptyhousewithhiminsecretmadeitsospecial.
Atthetopofthestairs,heturnedintoabedroomandquicklyclosedthethickdrapes.Theflashlightblindedherforafewsecondsasheaimeditather.“Hey,dropthelightandI’llturnonthelantern.”
“Giveittome.”Hetookthelanternfromherandsetitonthenightstandbutdidn’ttakethelightfromhereyes.“Showmeyourpompoms.”
Blinking,Beckyslippedherbackpackfromhershoulderandunzippedit.Shepulledoutherpompomsandsettingherbackpackatherfeet,wavedthemathim.“Nowwillyoulowerthelight?”
“Nah,youpromisedmeaspecialroutine.”Heindicatedtothebed.“Iwouldn’twantyourclothestogetallmessedup.Yourfolkswillknowwe’vebeenmakingout.Whydon’tyouslipoutofthemforme?”
Becky’sfacegrewhot.“Youfirst.”
“I’dloveto—”hechuckled“—butthenI’dhavetoputdowntheflashlight.“We’lltaketurns.Comeonnow,wriggleoutoftheskirtandtopbeforeIloseinterestandtakeyouhome.”Hetiltedhisheadandlookedherupanddown.“Iwenttoatonoftroubletoorganizethisjustforyou,Becky.Ifiguredwewantedthesamething?Ithoughtyouwerespecial.”
“YouthinkI’mspecial?”Beckydroppedherpompomsandremovedhertopandskirt.“Better?”
“Much.”Hetrainedtheflashlightonher.“Kneelonthefloorandfoldupyourclothes,Idon’twantthemgettingmessedup.Whenyou’redoneyoucanwatchme.”
Confused,Beckystaredathim.“You’restartingtocreepmeout.”
“DidyouthinkI’djustjumpyourbones?Idon’ttreatmygirlslikethat,Becky.”Heshookhishead.“Ilikethingsslowandeasy.I’dliketobeyourlastboyfriendsolet’smakeourfirstdateonetoremember.”
Heseemedsosincere.Couldhebeaskinghertogosteadyontheirfirstdate?Shecouldn’tbelieveherluck.Shefelltoherkneesandquicklyfoldedherclothes.Aswishingsoundcamefrombehindher.Likeawhisperofabreezebutsheignoredit,engrossedinlookingathim.“Iworryaboutthegirlinthelibrarycausingtrouble.Areyousureshedidn’tfollowus?”
“I’msure,I’monlyinterestedinyourightnow.”Heshrugged.“Ifshebothersus,I’lldealwithher.”
Beckysmiledupathim.“Whatwillyousaytoher?”
“I’lltellherIlovehermorethanlife.”
Theflashlightblindedher.Surprisedbyhisreply,shesquintedathimthroughtheglare.“Whatdidyousay?”
Thefloorboardscreakedbehindherandsomethingdroppedoverherfacetosettleonherneckandtightened.Slammeddownwithakneeinherback,andherfacepressedhardagainstthewoodenfloor,shefoughtforair.“Helpme.”
Assheopenedhermouthgasping,hesteppedforwardandboundherhandswithtape.Bewildered,shegapedathim.“Whyareyoudoingthis?”
“BecauseIlikeyou.”Hegrabbedherchin.“Anditmakesmygirlangry.”
Clothhithertongue.Shegagged,shakingherheadtodislodgehisgripbuthewoundtapearoundherheadcoveringhermouthandthenstoodback,aimingtheflashlightintohereyes.Shegapedindisbeliefasheleanedcasuallyagainstthenightstandasifenjoyingtheshow.Usingherlastounceofstrength,sherolled,tryingtounseatthepersonbehindher.Thecordslackenedandsheflippedtoherfeet.She’ddonethemoveahundredtimesasacheerleader.Shesprintedforthedoorandrandownthestairs,trippingoverandrollingtothebottom.Batteredandheartpoundingwithfear,shestaggeredtoherfeetandboltedforthebackdoor.Lightspilledthroughthekitchenwindowslikeabeacontoshowhertheway.
Shecouldhearthembehindher.Footstepsraninalldirectionshuntingthehallways.Shereachedthebackdoorandturnedaround,usingherboundhandstosearchforthehandle.Fingersslipping,sheturnedtheknobandthedoorswungopen.Coldairhitherbarefleshasshedivedoutsidenarrowlymissingahandtryingtograbher.Interror,sheduckedawayanddashedalongthenarrowpathheadingbackalongthewaythey’denteredthehouse.She’dseenlightsinnearbyhomesandincreasedherpace.Thepersonbehindherwasgaining,shecouldhearheavybreathingandfootstepsonthegravel.Theedgeofthebuildingloomed,highlightedbyastreetlamp.Inafewmorepaces,she’dbeoutontheroadandsprintingtowardanotherhouse,people,andsafety.Sheroundedthesideofthehouseatspeedandafiguresteppedoutoftheshadows.Stronghandsgrabbedherandspunheraround.Thepersonwho’dchasedhermovedintothelightandsherecognizedheratonce.Shewantedtoscreambutthegagwasfillingherthroatandmakingithardtobreathethroughhernose.
“Takeherbackupstairs.”Theyoungwoman’slipcurled.“Ihaven’tfinishedwithheryet.”
Terrifiedofwhatwastocome,Beckyaimedakneeatherdreamdate’sgroinbuthesidesteppedandhoistedheroveroneshoulderandthenheadedbackinside.Bloodrushedtoherheadashecarriedherupthestairsbutwhenhedroppedheronthefloor,shekickedout.Shewantedtoinflictasmuchdamageaspossible.Heflippedheroverasifsheweighednothing,draggedherbacktoherknees,andaninstantlaterthehorrorbeganagain.
Terrorgrippedherasthecordslippedaroundherneckslidingintoalreadypainfulgrooves.Hertormentorpulledherheadbackandthecordcutdeeperintoherflesh.Frombehindhershecouldheartheyoungwoman’sheavybreathingandinfrontofher,herdreamdatehaddroppedtohiskneestowatchherintently.Whathadshedonetomakethemsoangry?
“Kissher.”Thefemale’svoiceraspedfrombehindher.“Takeherlastbreath.Doit!”
“Ican’t.”HelookedpastBeckytothepersonstranglingher.“She’sturningblue.”Hewipedhismouthwiththebackofhishand.“Whyisittakingsolong?”
“BecauseIwanthertosuffer.”Theyoungwomanbehindhergiggled.“KissherandI’llendit.”
Unabletobreatheandlosingconsciousness,Beckypushedbackhardandmanagedtodraginonepreciousbreath.Shetriedtofightbutthegirlbehindherwasstrong.Inpanic,sherolledagain.Shehadtogetfree.
“Dosomething.”Thefemaletightenedthecordagainandpressedakneeharderintoherspine.“OrI’mleavingyoutodealwiththismess.”
Fightingforherlife,Beckystaredathim,willinghimtotakepityonherbuttheflashlightdidn’tmovefromherface.Godhelpher,hewasenjoyingseeinghersuffer.Terrorhadherinitsgripbutshe’dnevergiveup.Abeamoflightmovedacrosstheroom.Maybehe’dchangedhismindorthiswasjustaprankbutthenextinstant,agonysearedthroughhertemple.OhLord,he’dhither.Dizzy,sheslumpedtothefloor.Headsplitting,sheglanceduptoseehiminashaftofmoonlight,hiseyeswildasheraisedtheflashlightabovehishead,andthentheroomfoldedinonitself.
TWENTY-EIGHT
Afterfinishingasteaksobigthesidescameondifferentplates,eatingawedgeofchocolatecake,andthenrelaxingtoahumofconversation,Kaneleanedbackpleasantlysatisfied.HesippedhisoneglassofwineandwaitedforJenna,Jo,andJaimetoheaduptoJo’sroomatTheCattleman’sHotelbeforepullingouthisphonetocallStanWilliams.Hehadn’tplannedtogivethemanahead’supofhisarrivalbutdidn’twanttospookhimbyturningupwithCarterunannounced.“Hi,Stan,it’sDaveKane,willyoubehometonight?”
“Yeahsure,I’mnothomejustnow,somakeitafterten-thirty.IhaveatonofcoldbeertogowiththephotographsandsomevideosI’vetapedaswell.”Williamssoundedenthusiastic.
KanenoddedtoTyCarter.“Great,I’mbringingafriend.We’reoutatTheCattleman’ssowe’llkeepourselvesentertained.”
“Catchyoulater.”Williamsdisconnected.
“Youdoknowthisisn’tmydepartment?”Cartertookatoothpickfromhistoppocketandtosseditintohismouth.“We’llneedtobecarefulorhe’llbeshoutingentrapment.”
Kanehadgivenitsomethought.“Notifwedon’tarresthim.”Hesmiled.“Ifwefindanythingsuspicious,we’llturnitovertotheFBI’sChildExploitationandHumanTraffickingTaskForce.Theyhavetheresourcestofollowupandmakethearrests.I’vefoundthesecrimescanbewidespreadandtheyuseundercoverunitstobreakpedophilerings.”
“Yeah.”Carterleanedbackinhischairclearlyamused.“You’repreachingtothechoirhere.”HepointedafingeratKane.“Ican’tquitefigureyouout.Ipickedyouasmilitaryfirstdaywemetbutmygutfeelingisneverwrong.Heck,I’vesolvedcasesongutfeelingalone.”Heshookhisheadinafrustratedmanner.“I’veworkedbesideyou,seenhowyoumove,shoot,andprioritize.Youhaveinsideknowledgeyoushouldn’thaveaccesstoandtheguysupstairsclearedyouandJennainminutes.Shanehadnohesitationinrecommendingyouforthelastcase.”Hescratchedhischeekandlookedathim,hisgreeneyesintent.“Lookman,I’mnotpryingandIdon’twanttoknowthedetailsbutyouknowwhatIfigure?”
Kanerolledhiseyesinadramaticgesturetoshowhisamusement,althoughdeepdowninsidetheoldwarningbellswereblastinglikeair-raidsirens.“Whatdoyoufigure?”
“I’lllaymycardsonthetablebutI’llexpectyoutosaynothing.”Carterleanedforwardanddroppedhisvoicetojustaboveawhisper.“You,myfriend,areanoffthegridblackopsoperatorsenthereundercovertounravelsomemystery.”Hewatchedhisreactionclosely.“No?Thenthepowersthatbearehidingyouhereinplainsight.IalsofigureJennaisawareofwhatyouareandShaneisyourhandler.”
Amazedbutnotsurprisedbyhisinsight,Kanebarkedalaugh.“Okay,wellifthatweretrue,you’vejustcompromisedmymissionandI’dhavetokillyou.”Hegavehimalooktostopanyfurtherconversation.“That’sthewayitgoes,right?”
“Yeahandyou’ddoittoobutI’maSeal.Killingmemightnotbesoeasy.”Carterobservedhimsolemnly.“Iknowsnipers,andyou’renotthefirstoneI’veworkedwith.Youcanfliptheswitchanytimeyouchoose,can’tyou?Dropintothezone,makeyourheartslowandtakeoutatargetwithoutasecondthought.FromwhatJosays,Jennareferstoitasyourcombatface.Youdisturbher,youknow?Sometimesshedoesn’tknowwhatsideofyoutoexpect.”
AstonishedbytherevelationthatJennahadspokentoJoabouthim,Kanefinishedhiswineandstaredathim.“Likeyou,themilitarytrainedmetokill.TheygavemetheskillsandIusethemlawfullyandI’malwaysincompletecontrol.TosayJennaisinanywayconcernedaboutmeisadarnrightlie.Wespendallourdowntimetogetherandshewouldn’tdothatifshethoughtImighthurther.”
“Isawyouman,thenightwediscussedthecarbombingoutofDC.Iwatchedherandshewasfrightenedbyyourreaction.”Cartersippedhisbeer.“Youturnedtostoneandwalkedoutinthemiddleofadiscussion.Whatwasthatallabout?”
Kanefellintothelieinhisrecordsaboutalifehe’dneverlived.“Ifyouknowsomuchaboutme,you’dknowmysisterwaskilledinacarwreck.Theimagesbroughtbackmemoriesisall.”Heheavedanexaggeratedsigh.“Thewomaninthephotographslookedjustlikeher.”Henarrowedhisgaze.“Endofconversation.”Hewavedatthewaiter.“Wehavetogo.I’llgetthis.”
“No,youwon’t.”Carterpulledouthiscreditcard.“We’vebothbeenconsultingwithyou,sothebureaupays.Wehaven’tmadeasmalldentinourbudgetthisyear.TheonethingJodidnegotiateforcomingherewasamassiveallowancetocovercases.Let’sfaceitwehavetotravelfarandwidefromSnakeskinGully—whenwegetanassignment.”
Withthehairsonthebackofhisneckstillpricklingfromtheirconversation,Kanesmiledtobreakthetension.“Ifyouinsist.”
“Tellmemoreaboutthisguy.”Tyleanedbackinhischairandstaredathim.“Whatwavedaredflagwhenyouinterviewedhim?”
“Youmeanapartfromashrinetounderagecheerleaders?”Kaneraisedbotheyebrows.“You’renottheonlypersonwithagutfeeling.”
BehindthegeneralstoreKanepulledintotheparkingspacebesideWilliams’truckandtheymadetheirwayupthecreakingbackstairs.Theporchlightwason,spillingaweakyellowishglowoverthesteps.Highabove,thenight’sfinalfireworksdisplayshotintothesky,sendingthedarknessintoaparadeofbrightsparklingcolors,andfillingthepristineairwiththestinkofgunpowder.
HeknockedandheardfootstepsasStanWilliamscametothedoor.ItopenedandWilliamslookedpastKanetoCarterwithaworriedexpressionthateasedasCartermovedintothelight.“Stan,thisisTy,afriendofminefromSnakeskinGullyhereforthefestival.”
“Comeinside.”WilliamsheldoutahandtoCarter.“Nicetomeetyou.It’sgoodtofindtwomenintownoflikemind.Manydon’tunderstandmypassionforcheerleaders.”
“Oh,Ilikecheerleadersjustfine.”Cartermovedthetoothpickacrosshismouthandsmiledwithitclenchedbetweenhisteeth.“I’vedatedmyfairshare,wellmorethanmyfairshare.Beingthequarterbackinhighschoolhelpedsome.”
“Yeah,theproblemis,peoplefinditunusualthatIpreferthecheerleadersfromhighschool,theydon’tunderstandthatastheygetoldertheallureisn’tthereanymore.”SweatcoatedWilliams’browandhecarriedtheodorofbleach.KanesaidnothingbutwalkedstraighttothewallofimagesandturnedbacktoCarter.“See,he’scapturedthemineverypose?”
“Yeah.”Cartermovedalongthebench.“Youcollectpompomstoo?”Hechuckled.“Liketrophies?Howmanypairsdoyouhave?”
“Afew.”Williamswipedthesweatfromhisbrowonhissleeve.“You’veseenmylatestshots,isthereanythingelseyouwanttosee?”Heshrugged.“Idohavetoworkinthemorning.”
Kanesmiled,noticingtheadditionalpompomsfromthelasttimehe’dbeeninsideWilliams’home.“Whatabouttheimagesofthegirlsyoutakehere,inthestudio.Canyousharethemwithus?”
“TherearequiteafewbutI’llshowyousomeofmyfavorites.”Williamswenttohiscomputerandscrolledthroughapageofimagefilesandthenopenedoneandstoodback.“ThisisShirley,sheworkedonSaturdaysinthestoredownstairsandshe’ddropbytomodelforme.”
“Didyoupayher?”Carterleanedonthedeskpeeringatthescreen.“Formodeling?”
“Yeah,sheneededthecash.”Williamsopenedafileofayoungwomanholdingthepompomsandwearingjustherunderwear.“Shewasrealcute.”
“Was?”Kanelookedathim.“Whathappenedtoher?”
“HerfamilymovedawayandIreadsomewhereshe’dgonemissing.”Williamsfrowned.“Itwasfiveyearsorsoago.I’mnotsure.”
Kanegroundhisteethastheimagesandexplanationswentonforhalfanhour.He’dseenenoughandnowhadotherconcernshehadtodiscusswithJenna.Hestraightened.“We’dbetterletyougetsomerest.Didyouatleasthaveagoodtimeatthefestivaltoday?Thefireworkswerespectacular.ImissedtheonesjustbeforebutwecaughttheearlieronesfromthewindowatTheCattleman’s.”
“Fireworks?Oh,theyputonquiteashow,don’tthey?IspentmytimetakingphotographsasusualbutIhadsomethingelsetodotonight.”Williamsdidn’tmeetKane’seyes,shiftinghisgazetothepompomsonthebench.HeswallowedandhisAdam’sapplebobbed.“Itwasgoodofyoubothtodropby.Maybewecanspendsometimeoneweekend,whenyou’rebackagain,Ty,orIcansendyousomeofmyshots?Doyouhaveanywecouldswap?”
“I’msureI’llbeabletofindsomethingtoshare.I’llbeintouch.Davehasyourdetails.”Carterremovedhishat,ranahandthroughhisshaggyblondhair,andheadedforthedoor.“We’llseeyoulater.”Hedisappeareddownthestairs.
KanehurriedafterhimandonceinsidetheBeasthelookedatCarter.“IthoughthewasapredatorbutnowI’mseriouslyconsideringhemaybeapossiblesuspectinLaurieTurner’smurder.”
“Howso?”CarterpushedonhisStetson.
Kanestartedtheengine.“Pompoms.”
TWENTY-NINE
JakeRowleydisconnectedacallfromJenna.ShewasstillatTheCattleman’sHotelandinJo’sroom,waitingforKaneandAgentCartertogetbackfromspeakingtoStanWilliams.Althoughhe’dcheckedWilliamsoutandhadfoundnothingsuspicious,andnocomplaintsmadeagainsthim,apparentlyBobbyKalooutoftheFBIofficeinSnakeskinGullyhadunearthedsomethinginhispast.They’dfoundziponthesearchwarrantforthegreenChryslersedanadmittedlydrivenbyVernaHughes.Thejudgeruleditwashearsayandnotprobablecause.Rowleytidiedthefrontdeskandpulledonhisjacket.Thedeputyassignedtotakeoverforthenextfewhourshadalreadyarrivedandhe’dexplainedeverythingheneededtoknow.Itwasjustaprecautiontohavethesheriff’sdepartmentopenuntilalltherevelersintownhadheadedhome.Thedayhadgonefine,withonlytheusualdisturbancesandargumentsthathappenedwhenacrowdofpeopledescendedonthetown.Ithadbeenalongdayandhelookedforwardtocrawlingintobed.HeyawnedandcalledSandy.She’dbegladtoknowhewasonhiswaytocollecther.
Thephonerangandrangwithnoreply.Hecheckedthenumberandtriedagain.Aknotofworrycurledinhisstomachandthenhetookafewdeepbreaths.She’dmentionedgoingupstairstowatchthefireworksanddrinkhotchocolateinherfavoritechairandhadprobablyfallenasleep.Oflate,she’dbeensleepinglikethedead.She’dmissedtheoldstuffedleatherchairandwantedtotakeittotheranch.He’devenaskedJennaifhecouldbuyitforherandwasconfusedatherrefusalbutthesurprisecamethedaythey’dfinishedthenursery.Adeliverytruckhadarrivedatthegatecarryingafineleatherchair,madeespeciallyfornursingmothers.Itrockedandwascompletewithfootrest.ItwasagiftfromJennaandDave.HecouldstillhearSandy’swoopsofjoy.Shewouldtreasureitalways.
RowleyclimbedintohisSUVanddrovetheshortdistancetotheoldhouse,surprisedtofinditindarkness.Sandywasn’tafraidofthedarkbutwhenthey’dlivedhere,he’dneverarrivedhomewithoutseeingtheporchlightblazingawelcomeandatleastthehalllightondownstairs.Heparkedandrushedtothefrontdoor,usinghiskeytogainentrance.Thehousestunkofbleachasifsomeonehademptiedandentirebottleonthefloor.“Sandy?”
Heflickedonlights.Nothing.ConcernknottedhisgutashepulledouthisMagliteandsearchedeachroom,lookingforher.Nothingseemeddisturbed.HewalkedintothekitchenandastheMaglitefloodedtheroom,hemadeoutSandy’spurseandThermosonthecounter,sameaswhenhe’dlefther.“Sandy,areyouupthere?”
Nothing.
Feargrippedhimforhersafetybuthistrainingclickedintopreventhimrushingupthestairsintounknowndanger.Ifheheardasound,he’dcallforbackupbutlikelySandywasasleepinthebedroom.Heeasedhisweaponfromtheholsterandcreptupthestairsavoidingthecreakystepshe’dcometoknowsowell.Hereachedthelandingandkeepinghisbacktothewall,aimedhisMaglitedownthebarrelofhisGlock.Sweepingthehallway,hemovedslowlytothefirstbedroomatthetopofthestairs.Thedoorhungopenandthestinkofbleachwaschoking.Withhisbackflattothewallheaimedhisflashlightinsidetheroomandgapedinhorror.Ayoungwoman,herbluelipsstretchedwidearoundsomethingstuffedintohermouthandherskinadeathlyshadeofgray,satagainstthewall,hereyesfixedinadeathstare.Bloodmattedonesideofherheadandligaturemarkscrisscrossedherneck.HisMaglitereflectedinapoolofliquidsurroundingherandashemovedthebeamaroundtheroom,henoticedanotherwetpatchontheplasticcoveredmattresswasdrippingontothefloor.
Heartthreateningtotearthroughhisribs,heturnedawayandcheckedthesecondbedroom.Itwasemptyandnothinghadbeendisturbed.Thedoortothenextbedroom,theroomhehadsharedwithSandy,wasshut.Heholsteredhisweapon,gavehimselfamentalshaketoeasethepanicthreateningtoovertakehim,andpulledasurgicalglovefromhispocket.Heusedittoopenthedoorandthenstoodtoonesidetoturkeypeekinside.Thestreetlighthe’doncethoughtannoyingshedanorangeglowthroughtheroom,acrossthepolishedwoodandoverthefigureofSandy,lyingmotionlessonthefloor,herfacebloody.Herushedinandfelltohiskneesbesideherfeverishlyfeelingforapulseonherneck.“Sandy,comeon.Openyoureyes.”
Underhisfingershecouldfeelbloodpumpingthroughherjugular,andpulledouthisphonetocalltheparamedics.“ThisisDeputyRowley.Ineedtheparamedics,headinjury,thepatientisnon-responsive,breathing,andfivemonthspregnant.Yes,SandyRowley,mywife.”Hegavethedetailsandwentbacktoher.“Sandy.”Hebrushedthehairfromherfaceandfeltthelumponherhead.Shewasoutcold.
HeusedhisMaglitetocheckher,runningonehandoverherbellyandwaitingforwhatseemedlikeaneternity.Hisheartjumpedwithjoyatthemovementinside.AshecradledSandy’sheadinhislap,hecalleditin.JennawasstillintownandKanehadjustarrivedatthehotelsothey’dbeonlyminutesaway.Relieved,hestrokedSandy’sfaceandhereyesfluttered.“Sandy,staystillnow,you’vehurtyourhead.Doyouhurtanywhere?Isthebabyokay?”
“Someonehitmewithaflashlight.”Sandysoundedgroggyandshegrippedhisarm.“Icanfeelthebabymoving,andnothinghurtsbutmyhead.Ithoughttheymighthavekickedmeagain.”
Helookeddownatherinhorror.“Whokickedyou?”
“I’mnotsure,itwasdark.Thepowerwasout.”Sandytouchedherface.“TheykickedmeunderthechinandIblackedout.”
Rowleyhelpedhertositup,stood,andthencarriedhertotheoldchair.Heremovedhisjacketanddrapeditoverher.“TheparamedicsareontheirwayandJennaandDavewillbeheresoon.”Theimageofthedeadgirlflashedacrosshismind.Hedidn’twantSandytoseeabrutalmurder.“I’vecheckedthehouse,there’snoonehere.I’llgoandseeifthepowerhasbeenturnedoffatthebreakerbox.Justwaithereforasecond.”
Hepulledoutglovesandsnappedthemonashewalkeddownthehallwayandclosedthedoortothefirstbedroombeforeherandownstairs.Hewentintothelaundrytoflipthebreakerandlightsspilledthroughthehouse.Hecheckedthebackdoorandfindingitunlocked,turnedthekeybeforerunningbackupthestairstoSandy.Aftercheckingheroveragain,hecrouchedbesideher.“Howareyoufeeling?”
“Youmeanapartformyheadfeelingasifit’sbeensplitintwo?I’mokay.”Sandygrippedhisarm.“I’mdizzyandsicktomystomachbutokay.Why?Doyouneedtogosomewhere?”
“No,I’mnotleavingyoualoneagain,butthisisacrimesceneandJennawon’twanttheparamedicsdestroyingevidence.WillyoubeokayifIcarryyoudownstairs?We’llwaitinthefamilyroomfortheparamedics.You’llneedtogotothehospital;youhaveanastycutonyourhead.I’mcomingwithyou.I’llfollowrightbehindinmySUV,okay?”
“Sure.”Shereachedoutahandandsqueezedhisarm.“Don’tworry,I’mtougherthanyouthink.”
HestoodandhelpedSandytoherfeetandthenliftedherintohisarms.Heartinhismouth,hedescendedthestairs.Itmightlookgoodinthemoviesbutnegotiatingthestepswashazardouswithhispreciouscargo.Oncehe’ddepositedhersafelyonthesofa,hesighedwithrelief.“Theyshouldbeheresoon.”
“CanyougrabmypurseandtheThermosfromthekitchen?”Sandygrippedhisarm.“I’llneedmypurseatthehospital.”
Rowleysmiledather.“Sure,I’llberightback.”
AftertakingthepurseandflasktoSandy,theunmistakablesoundofKane’ssirenblaredoutsideandRowleyclosedthedoortothefamilyroombeforehehustledtoletthemin.HeneededtospeaktothemwithoutSandyoverhearing.HeopenedthedoortoJennaandKane.RioandAgentCarterfollowedtheminside.Helookedattheirconcernedfaces.“Sandyisinthefamilyroom,she’sconsciousanddoesn’tknowaboutupstairs.Canwekeepitthatway?”
“Sure.”Jennaloweredhervoice.“What’sitlooklike?”
Rowleyleanedinsoonlyshecouldhear.“Ifigureit’sanothercheerleadermurder.”
THIRTY
Tremblingwithaconfusingmixtureofexhilarationandblindpanic,hedrovelikeamaniacinthedirectionoftheoldbarn.Hisgirlwasgigglingabouthowthey’dcomeclosetobeingdiscovered.Thedeputy’sSUVhadpulledupoutfrontjustastheyreachedthefrontdoortoleave.Theyhadplannedtolockthebackdoorandleavebythefront.Thedeputyhadcomeinside,missingthembyseconds.Thebackdoorhadclickedshutbehindthemjustashe’denteredthefrontdoorcallingoutawoman’sname.“Thatwastoodarncloseandwhoisthewomanhewascallingoutfor?”
“Hiswife,Ifigure.”Hisgirlgrinnedathimlikeacatwho’djustfinishedaplateofcream.“SomepregnantwomanwasupstairswhenIwastakingthecleaningstuffintothebedroom.Ihadtokillher.”
Sickened,heturnedtolookather,swervingontheroadbeforeshescreamedathimtobecareful.“You’vekilledapregnantwoman?Howandwhy?Whatdidshedotoyoutomakeyoukillher?”
“Shecouldhaveseenusandtoldthecops.Iknowher,she’smarriedtooneofthedeputies,andnowhe’llbeoutforourblood.”Hisgirlshrugged.“Shewaseasytokill,Ihitherwithmyflashlightandwhenshedropped,Ikickedherinthefacejusttobesure.”
Sweattrickledbetweenhisshoulderbladesandthebilecurdlinginhisstomachthreatenedtorushuphisthroat.Hehadtogetawayfromherandfindtimetothink.“I’lldropyouhome.I’llgoandburntheclothesnow.Ifyou’vekilledadeputy’swife,they’llbehuntingusdowntonight.They’llhavealreadyfoundBecky.They’llfindus,Iknowit.”
“Notifwe’recareful.TherewassomebloodwhenyoukilledBecky,sowhenyou’redone,washyourclothes,takeashower,andmakesureyoucleanyourbootswithbleach.Whenthey’redrypolishthemtogetridofthesmell.”Shegrippedhisarm.“Noevidencemeanstheycan’tcatchus.”
Realizationdawnedonhim.He’d.Killed.Becky.Hisgirlhadorderedhimtohitherandhe’dcompliedwithoutquestion.There’dbeennothrillandhe’dseenthebetrayalinBecky’seyesashe’dslammedtheflashlightintoherhead.I’mamurderer.Heglancedathisgirl;thingshadchangedandbeingwithherunnervedhimnow.Hecouldn’ttrustheranddidn’tknowwhatshemightdonext.“Thiswasthelastone.It’sgettingtoohotoutthere.DidyouseealltheBlackwaterdeputiesintowntoday?Wecametooclosetobeingcaught.”
“We’llstopwhenIsayandIhaveonemoretokill.Whenshe’sdead,I’llbehappy.”Sheleanedagainsthim.“Youwanttomakemehappy,don’tyou?”
Heclearedhisthroat.Hertouchsuddenlymadehisskincrawl.“SureIdo,youknowthat,right?”
Hehadtomakeanexcuse—anythingnottokillagain—buthe’dseenherfaceandthethrillshe’dgottenfromkilling.She’dneverbesatisfied.Nowhe’dkilledBecky,hewasindeepshit.Ifhetriedtostophisgirl,she’dturnonhimandmurderhiminhissleep.Heneededhelp,someonehecouldtrusttogivehimadvice,someonewhocouldn’ttellthecops.Ashedrove,herantheideathroughhismind.Apriestwasoutofthequestion,hewasn’tCatholic,andoldDocBrownwouldfindsomeexcusetotellthesheriff.He’dhavetotalktosomeonebeforehisgirlchosehernextvictim.
THIRTY-ONE
Tornbetweengivingreassurancetoherfriendandprocessingacrimescene,JennaturnedtoCarter.“CallShaneformepleaseandthengoupstairswithRiotogiveWolfearundownofwhat’shappened.We’llneedtopreservethecrimescene.I’llspeaktoSandyandberightthere.”
“Sure.”CarterglancedattheforensicskitinKane’shand.“We’llneedgloves,amask,andbooties.”
“Helpyourself.”Kanedroppedthebagonthehallstandandflippeditopen.
Jennalookedatthem.“NotonewordabouttheothervictimtoSandy.She’sbeenthroughenoughalready.”
“Ihearsirensinthedistance,itmustbetheparamedics.”Kanefrowned.“Ifyouwanttospeaktoher,you’dbetterhurry.”
“YouknowhowtodealwithtraumavictimsfarbetterthanIdo.I’llbethesupportcrewandtakedownnotes.Icanimaginethepainshe’sin,myheadstillachesfromtheslapfromMr.Law.”JennaopenedthedoortothefamilyroomandwentinsidewithKaneclosebehindher.ShesmiledatSandy.“Weleaveyoualoneforafewminutesandlookwhathappens.”
“Me?Lookatyouwithablackeye.”Sandyleanedbackinthechair.“Atleastyoufoughtback.Iplayedpossumandhopedthey’dleavemealone.”
“Thatwasthebestthingtodo.”Kanesqueezedhershoulder.“Itwasn’tyoutheycameheretohurt.Wefiguretheywerelookingforsomeoneelse.Whatdoyouremember?”
“I’msorry,Idon’tremembermuchatall.”Sandywasholdingawadoftissuestohercheekinanattempttoslowtheflowofblood.“Idon’tfigureIcantellyouanything.”
“Yeahyoucan.”Kanesquattedbesideher.“You’dbesurprisedwhatthemindseesevenifwedon’tregisteritatfirst.Gobacktowhenyouarrived.Didyouseeanyvehiclesparkedcloseby?”
“No,onlytheredpickupnextdoor,andit’salwaysthereatnight.”Sandylookedathim.“Everythingwasnormal.Icleanedupthepapersanddirtyfootprintsleftbythedeliveryguys,pouredacupofhotchocolatefromtheThermos,andcameupheretorestandwatchthefirstdisplayoffireworks.”
“Didyouhavethedoorscloseddownstairs?”Kanepulledoutmoretissuesfromaboxonthefloorandhandedthemtoher.
“IcheckedthebackdoorwhenIarrived.”Sandydabbedatthecutonherheadandwinced.“Itwaslockedthenandthefrontdoorneedsakeytoopenit.”
“Thenwhathappened?”Kanesmiledather.“Yousathereanddrankyourchocolate.Didyoufallasleep?”
“YeahIdidandthensomethingwokeme,anoiseinthehallway.”Sandyfrowned.“ItwasdarkandI’dleftallthelightsonforwhenJakearrived.”
“So,youheardanoiseandthenwhathappened?”Kane’sfacewasfilledwithemotion.
Jennaleanedagainstthewallandlookedatherbatteredfriendandtriedtoquellheranger.HergazemovedtoRowleybalancedonthearmofthechairholdingSandy’shand.She’dneverseenhimsopaleandhewastremblingwithrage.
“Iwentintothehallwayandheardsoundsandthensomeonecameatme,Itriedtorunbuttheyknockedmedown.Theyhitmewithaflashlightandwhentheykickedme—”SandyblinkedandthenstaredatKane.“Theywerewearingcowboyboots,somethingflashedlikeamedallionorsomethingontheboots.That’sallIrememberuntilJakearrived.”
“Didtheysayanything?”Kaneregardedherclosely.“Didyousmellanything?”
“No,theydidn’tsayanything.”Sandythoughtforabeat.“Therewasasmell,I’mnotsurewhatitwas,cologneperhaps?”
“Onepersonortwo?”KaneglancedatJennaandthenbackatSandy.
“One,itwasonlyone.”Sandysighedanddabbedatherheadagain.“Onesetoffootstepscamerunningbehindme,I’mcertain.”
Jennasmiledather.“Youdidreallywell.”Sheheadedforthedoor.“Theparamedicsarehere.I’llcomebythehospitalandcheckonyoulater.Nodoubt,thedoctorswillwanttorunatonoftests.”
“Theywill.”SandygrippedRowley’sarm.“I’llbefine.Don’tdrivewhenyou’reangry.Waitawhileandcallmyfolks,I’llneedsomethings.AskMom,she’llknowwhattobring.”
“Okay.”Rowleykissedher.“I’llberightbehindyou.”
Theparamedicscameinwiththeirusualswiftefficiency,checkingSandyandgettingherontoagurneybeforewhiskingheraway.JennahadexpectedRowleytodashafterherbutheslumpedagainstthewallandcoveredhisfacewithbothhands.Shewalkedtohisside.Healwaysreactedwelltoordersandobviouslyneededsomedirection.“Youhavethingstodo.Contactherparentsandthenfollowhertothehospital.Youhavealongnightaheadofyou,thesethingstakehours.We’llbebyassoonaswe’veprocessedthescene.DoyouneedmetogetanythingfromtheranchforSandy?”
“No.”Rowleystraightenedandastrangecalmhaddescendedonhim.“Sandystillhasthingsatherparents’house.I’llcallandaskhermomtobringthenecessities.They’llkeepherinthehospitalforatleastovernight,won’tthey?”
Jennanodded.“Yeah,they’llwanttomakesuresheandthebabyareokay.”
“Babies.”Rowley’seyesfilledwithunshedtears.“Twins,oneofeach,wewerekeepingitasecretuntilmyparentscomebackfromvacation.God,Ihopethey’reokay.”
Shehadn’tseenWolfeslipinthefrontdoorwithEmilyandColtWebberathisside.Sheturnedathisvoice.
“Didshehaveanybleedingorcontractions?Couldyoufeelthebabiesmoving?”WolfewasstaringatRowley.
“Shewasonlybleedingfromherheadinjury.Ifeltthebabiesmovingandnocontractions.”RowleylookedrelievedtoseeWolfe.
“WasSandylucid?”WolfewasregardingRowleyintently.
“Yeah,notatfirst,butyesshewasansweringKane’squestionsjustfine.”RowleytookthedrinkEmilythrustintohishands.“Idon’thavetimetodrinkcoffee,she’llneedmeatthehospital.”
“Sitdownanddrinkthecoffee.”Wolfepattedhimontheshoulder.“Callherparentsandgetwhatsheneedsforacoupleofdays’observation.Trustme,themomenttheparamedicswheelinthegurney,she’llbehavingscansandtherewillbedoctorscrawlingalloverher.You’llbestuckinthewaitingroomforhours.It’sbestyousithereforawhileuntiltheshockwearsoffabitbeforeyougetbehindthewheel.”
“Okay.”RowleyremovedhisStetsonanddroppedintoachair.HelookedupatJenna.“Forthefirsttimeinmylife,Ifeellikekillingsomeone.Themonsterwhokilledthosegirlslaidhandsonmywife.”Hishandsshookaroundthecup.“It’sobviousthey’llstopatnothing.”
Jennawavedeveryonefromtheroom.“Getsuitedup,folks,andgetthatcrimesceneprocessed.I’llbeupinamoment.”ShewaitedforthemtoleaveandlookedatRowley.“That’saperfectlynormalreaction.IgetmadwhenpeoplearekilledandwhenDavewasshot,Iwantedtokillthemanwhodidit.”Shecrouchedbesidehim.“You’reagreatdeputyandyouknowwehavethebestteamaround,soIwantyoutotrustmetocatchthisguy.”Shesqueezedhisarm.“IneedtoknowtheofficeisincapablehandswhileI’mworkingonthiscase.You’llneedtostepbacknowthatSandyisinvolved.”Shenoticedhisfacestiffenandsighed.“Look,Iknowit’sdifficulttostandbywhensomethinglikethishappensbutwhenwecatchhim,ifhisdefenseteambelievetherewasanychanceofaconflictofinterest,he’llwalk.”
“Yeah,Iunderstand.”Rowleystaredatthedoor.“DoyoufigureAgentCarterandWellswillstickaroundnow?”
Jennashrugged.“Maybebutthey’realwaysthereifweneedthem.Drinkyourcoffeeandmakethecalls.I’llgoandseewhat’shappeningupstairs.”
ShesuitedupandskirtedpastColtWebberwhowascheckingeveryinchofthestaircaseforhairs.“Findanything?”
“Yeah,afiberthatmightbefromapompom.”Webberheldupanevidencebag.“It’stherightcolor.”
Jennanoddedandmovedupthesteps,followingthevoicesintothefirstbedroom.“Whathavewegot,Shane?”
“Thisoneisdifferenttothelastonebutthesameinmanyways.”Wolfepointedtothemarksonthegirl’sneck.“Someonetriedtostrangleherandcouldn’tkillhersotheybludgeonedhertodeathbythelookofit.I’llknowmorefromthepost.Sothat’sdifferent,soisthetape,andI’massumingthematerialpokingoutfromunderthetapearemen’sbriefs.Sheisn’tnakedbutherclothesaremissing.”
Jennamovedclosertothevictim.“Iknowher,she’sthevice-captainofthecheerleadingsquad.HernameisBeckysomething.”Shepulledoutherphoneandscrolledthroughherfiles.“BeckyPowell.”Shethoughtforabeat.“Wehaveaconnection.ShewaschasingafterWyattCooperthenightLauriewasmurdered.”
THIRTY-TWO
AfterseeingRowleyoffwiththepromiseoffollowingassoonaspossible,JennapulledKanetooneside.“I’llleaveRiotoobserveWolfe.Ifhehasanearperfectrecalllikehesays,he’llbetakingintheentiresceneandcanapplyittoourinvestigationatwill.I’veseenallIneedtoseeandWolfedoesn’tneedourhelp.Ifigurewecanvastheareawhilethingsarefreshinpeople’sminds.ThelightsareoninmanyhomesandIcanseepeoplewatchingusthroughwindows.”
“Okay.”Kanefollowedherfromthehouse.“I’llbeinterestedtoseewhatWolfefindsintheautopsy.Atfirst,IthoughtthismightbeacopycatkillerbutwhenWolfementionedthebriefs,wellwe’venevermentionedthatdetailtothepress,havewe?”
“No,wehaven’t.”Jennastoppedwalkingandturnedtohim.“Evenwiththebloodandall,that’sBeckyPowell.Irecognizeherandassoonaswe’vefinishedhere,we’llhavetotrackdownherparentsandgivethemthebadnews.”Sheshookherheadslowly.“Theywon’tevenknowanythingiswrong.Ifshewasoutonadate,theymightnotbeworryingjustyet.”
“Youknowthey’llwanttorushtothemorgueandseehertonight.”Kanekneadedhisshoulderandstaredintothestreet.“It’sasiftheydon’twantthemtobealone.It’sheartbreakingtotellthemtheyhavetowait.”
Jennastartedtowalkagain.“Maybebutwhentheyseeher,shewon’tbecoveredinblood.That’snotamemoryanylovedoneshouldhavetosuffer.”
“Trustme,Iknow.”Kanepulledoutanotebookandpen.“Let’sgetthisoverwith.”
Theyspoketoeveryonealongonesideoftheroadanddowntheotherandpulledblanksonthetwohomesopposite.Bothfamilieshadjustgottenhomefromthefestivalandhadonlyseenthearrivaloftheparamedics.Theycrossedtheroadandwenttotheneighbor.Jennarangthebellandthedooropenedatonce.“Goodevening,I’mSheriffAltonand
“WellithappensIdid.”Awomaninherlatesixtiespointedatatreeopposite.“TherewasasilverGMCtruckparkedunderthattree.ItwasthereforaboutthreehoursandleftjustafterDeputyRowleyarrivedhome.”ShelookedatJennaandliftedoneshoulder.“NotthatI’mabusybody,butIwentoutsidetowalkthedogandnoticedthevehicle.NowIknowthepeopleacrosstheroadallwenttothefestivalthisevening,sothetruckwasn’tavisitor.Iwassuspiciousandkeptmyeyeonittoseeifanyonewasloadingitupwithstolenproperty.”
JennaexchangedalookwithKaneandnodded.“Thatwasverythoughtfulofyou.Didyouseeanyoneorhearanything?”
“Well,Ithoughtso,maybesomeonerunningonthegravelpathwaybetweenmyhouseandtheonenextdoor.Ilookedoutbutcouldn’tseeanythingwiththetreesandall.”Shepausedabeat.“Iwatchedoutthewindowandjustbeforeeleven,DeputyRowleyarrivedinhisSUV.Iknowhe’dmovedout,soIthoughtthatwasstrange.IheardhimcallingoutforSandyandfiguredshemustbeworkinginsidesoIdidn’tworrytoomuch.ItwasjustafterthatInoticedtheGMChadgone.Itcreptawaywithoutasound.”Shepulledaface.“That’sallIcantellyou.Ididn’tseeanyoneatall,I’msorry.”
“AreyousureitwasasilverGMCtruck?”Kanetiltedhisheadtolookather.
“Isuream.”Shesmiledathim.“Mysonhasoneandit’sjustthesamebuthelivesinBlackwater.”
“Andhehadnoreasontobehereintowntonight?”Jennawatchedthewoman’sreaction.“Doeshevisityouoften?”
“MysonisanERnurseandwasworkinglastnight.”Shesighed.“Hetriestogettoseemebuthisworkkeepshimbusy.He’seitherworkingorsleepinglately.”
Jennanodded.“Yes,theyworkveryhard.”
“Whathappenednextdoor?IsawSandybeingtakenawayinanambulance,isshegoingtobeokay?”
“Ihopeso.”Jennapushedahandthroughherhair.“We’retryingtogettothebottomofwhathappenedtoher.”
“I’vewrittendownwhatyou’vetoldusinastatement.”Kanehandedthewomanhisstatementbook.“Couldyoupleasereaditthroughandsignit?Pleaseprintyournameandcontactdetailshere.”Hepointedtothedocument.
ThewomancompliedandJennasmiledather.“Thankyouforyourassistance.”Shehandedheracard.“Ifyouthinkofanythingelse,orthattruckcomesback,writedownthelicenseplateifyoucanbutdon’tgonearit,callmeimmediately.”
“Sure.”Thewomanlookedatthecard.“I’mgladIcouldhelp.”
Dreadinghernextassignment,Jennamadeherwaybacktothehouseandtheybothsuitedupagain.Riowasdoingasearchofthegroundfloorandshewentuptohim.“Anythingtoreport?”
“Afewthings,therearescuffmarksonthefloorinanumberofplacesandWebberfoundtracesofDNAatthebottomofthestairsandinthehallwayoutsidethefrontbedroom.Ifigurethey’refromastruggleasIrecallRowleytellingmeSandyhadcomeherespecificallytomakesurethefloorswerespotless.”Heshrugged.“I’mnotsurewhy,mybrotherandsisterwillhavethemscuffedthemomenttheywalkinside.”
Takenaback,Jennastaredathim.“Doyoustillwanttomoveinhere,evenafteramurder?”
“Sure.”Riomethergaze.“Peopledieinhousesallthetime.Iknowit’sacrimescenebutonceyou’vereleaseditandthecleanershavebeeninside,Idon’thaveaproblem.”Heraisedbotheyebrows.“Idon’tbelieveinghostsandIgatherthelockeddoorfromthekitchenleadstoaccommodationforalive-inhousekeeper?Thatwouldbeperfect,ifIcanfindonetolivehere.”
Jennahadthoughtshemighthavetosellthehouseandbuyanothertoreplaceit.Rio’snewswasarelief.“Wellthen,that’sfineandMaggiehasalistofsuitablehousekeepersyoucaninterview.Bythewayit’sinyouremploymentcontract,thatasthisisthesheriffdepartment’sproperty,you’llonlyhavetopaytheutilitiesandthere’sprovisionmadeforahousekeeper.”
“WhydoyoufigureItookthejob?”Riosmiled.“Tryingtogetbyandcareforthetwinshasbeenanightmare.”
Jennacheckedherwatch.“It’sgettinglate.OnceWolfehasprocessedthecrimesceneyou’dbettergetonhome.”
“You’llneedanofficerondutytoguardthescene.”Riolookedconcerned.“Incasethekillercomesbacktocontaminatethecrimescene.”
“WehavefourdeputiesfromBlackwaterandLouancoolingtheirheelsatthemotel.”Kanepulledouthisphone.“TheycansplittheshiftsbutIdoubtWolfewillwanttoreturnagaininthemorning.He’susuallythoroughandIgatheryou’vetakenfootageofeverything?”
“Isurehave.”Riowavedahandtowardthestairs.“Itookimagesofeverystepaswell.”
JennaglancedatKane.“Gomakethecalls.”SheturnedbacktoRio.“Okay,I’llspeaktoWolfeandthenwe’reheadingouttoinformnextofkin.”
Sheheadedupthestairsandintotheroom.ThebodyofBeckywasonagurneyandWolfewasmakingreadytoleave.“I’mgoingtospeaktoherparents.Whattimetomorrowforaviewing?”
“Eleven.”Wolfeturnedtoher.“Autopsyattwo.Rowleymusthavebeenminutesawayfromsavingthisgirl.Shewasstillwarmwhenwearrived,herbodytemperaturehadn’tfallenmuchatall,noonsetofrigor.Ifigureshewaskillednotlongbeforehearrivedatthehouse.”Hiseyebrowsdrewtogether.“ShediedwhileSandywasunconsciousintheotherroom.You’llneedtokeepthatinformationfromher.Atleastuntilsheisovertheshockofwhathappened.”
“That’sgoingtobedifficultbutI’lldomybest.”Jennastoodhandsonhipsandsurveyedtheroom.“We’llcomebyafterwe’vespokentothevictim’sparents.Kaneisorganizingapatroltowatchthehouseovernight;Riowillneedtoheadhomewhentheyarrive.”ShelookedatCarter.“Areyoustayingordoyouwantaridebacktothehotel?”
“I’mstaying.”Carterwasexaminingtheceiling.“Shaneisnotthroughhereyet.”
“I’dappreciatehishelpifyoucansparehim?WehaveatonmoreareastoprocessandIhaven’tstartedontheotherbedroomyet.”Wolfeindicatedtothefloor.“Thekillerstippedbleachoverthevictimbutwherethebodypressedagainstthewall,Ifoundtraceevidence.TheyrushedthecleanupandI’mgoingtocheckeveryinchofthisroombeforeweleave.”
Jennawrinkledhernoseatthepungentsmellofbleach.“Weshouldn’tbetoolong.I’lldropbyAuntBetty’sCafé,I’msureweallneedcoffeetokeepusgoing.”
“Goodidea,we’llusethefamilyroom.It’sacleanareaandnoonewentinthereduringtheattack.”Wolfesighed.“Keepasquietaspossible,wewon’tbepopularwiththeneighbors.Webberisgoingtobesearchingallthetrashcansoutfrontofthehousesbeforeweleave.Thevictim’sclothesaremissingandthekillerscouldhavedumpedthembeforeleaving.”
Jennanodded.“Itonlytakesonemistakeandwe’llhavethem.Thatwillbetheirdownfall.Killersallbelievethey’vecommittedtheperfectmurder.There’snosuchthing.”
THIRTY-THREE
Thewindwaspickingup,rustlingthetreesandmakingthefallleavesraindownacrosstheblacktop.Inthestreetlight,itremindedKaneofaflockofbutterflies.HeleanedagainstthedoorofhistruckwaitingforJenna.ConcernedaboutSandyandhowRowleywascoping,hepulledouthisphonetogetanupdate.“Hi,Jake,it’sDave.Anynews?”
“Some.Theyperformedanultrasoundonthebabiesandassuredmethey’refinebutSandyishavingabrainscan.Shesaidhervisionwasblurry.Herfolksarehereandmineareontheirway.It’sgoingtobesometimebeforetheycompleteallthetestsandstitchherup.I’llknowmorelater.”
KaneglancedupasJennawalkedtohisside.“We’lldropbybeforeweheadhome.DoyouneedachangeofclothesoranythingelseIcangetyou?”
“Nope,myparentswillgrabwhatIneedifIhavetostay.”
“Okay,we’llseeyousoon.”Kanedisconnected.
“Anynews?”Jennapulledopenthedoortothetruck.
Kaneslidinbehindthewheel.“Babiesarefine,nothingonSandyyet.”Hebackedouttheparkingspaceandheadedintotown.“ThePowells’addressisalreadyintheGPS.”HelookedatJenna.“Igetaknotinmystomacheverytimewehavetoinformnextofkin.It’ssomethingyoucannevergetusedto,isit?”
“Nope.”Jennaleanedbackinherseat.“ItryandrehearsewhattosayinmyheadbutwhenIgetthereI’mneverprepared.”
AstheyenteredMain,Kanewassurprisedtoseetheclustersofpeoplestillmillingaround,mostofthemyoungpeopleinsmallgroupschattingoreatingtakeout.Thehotdogcartwasdoingafinebusinessandseemedtohaveanendlesssupply.Hesmiled.“Howdotheykeepthatcartgoing,dayandnight?”
“Theyowntheconveniencestoreandwithsixgrownsons,theycankeepgoingaroundtheclock.”Jennasmiled.“Theyhavemorethanonecart.”ShepointedatthepeopleinalineoutsideAuntBetty’s.“Oh,IhavetocallAuntBetty’s.They’resobusytonight,Ishouldordercoffeefortheteamandwe’lldropbyonthewayback.Wolfesaidit’sgoingtobeagesbeforehe’sthrough.I’llordersomefoodaswell.”Shemadethecall.
KaneheadedforthePowells’houseandsmiledtohimself.Shewasusingoneofhistactics,toeasethestressofthenight.Agirl’sbrutalmurderandthesenselessattackonSandyhadshakentheteam.HecouldfeelthesimmeringangerfromeveryonewiththeexceptionofRio.HisintroductiontoBlackRockFallshadbeentoughbuthe’dhandledhimselfwithaprofessionalismhehadn’texpected.HeglancedatJenna.“IfigureZacisgoingtobearealassettoourteam.Hedidn’tneedanydirectionandjustmuckedinandgotthejobdone.”
“Iagreebutdoyouthinkhe’swhatheseems?”Jennaclearedherthroat.“Imeanheactslikehe’sseenitall,noemotion.Mostguysofhisagewouldhavepukedatthesightofagirlbludgeonedtodeathbuthetookitinhisstride.”
Kanenodded.“Hemusthaveabuilt-inmechanism.Thinkaboutit.Hecan’tforgetanythingheseesandasadetectiveinLosAngeles,he’sseenhisfairshareofbloodandgore.Notbeingabletoforgetisanincrediblefreakofnature.It’snotclassedasaneideticmemory.That’sbeingabletorecallanimageforaboutaminuteindetailandhehasn’tgotwhat’sclassedasaphotographicmemoryeither.Whathehasisamixtureoflong-termmemoryandinstantrecall,somethingthathasn’treallybeenlabeledcorrectlyyet.HisIQmustbeofftheboardbutwhateverthedoctorsdecidetocallit,he’shaditforever.Iguesshe’slearnedtocopewithitandturnofftheemotionattachedtothememory.”
“Youdothatallthetime.”Jennashrugged.“What’ssodifferent?”
“Idon’thavehismemory.”Kanekepthiseyesontheroad.“Idoturnoffemotionbutit’spartofmytrainingandit’satechniqueIusedtomaketheshotandkillthetarget.Idon’tforgetthepeopleI’vekilledbutI’velearnednottodwellonit.Hemustdothesame.Hismemoryisagiftandacurse.”HeslowedastheGPSindicatedthey’dreachedtheirdestination.
Outsidethehouse,heremovedhishatandturnedtoJenna.“Herewego.”
“Thefrontporchlightisonandthey’reprobablywaitingupforher.”Jennaremovedherhat,droppeditontotheseat,andopenedthedoor.
Theywalkeduptothefrontdoor,andKanepressedthedoorbell,hearingthechimesechoinside.Footstepsandthenawomanwearingadressinggownflungopenthedoor.
“Mrs.Powell?”Jennasteppedcloser.
“Yes,whatcanIdoforyou,Sheriff?”Thewomangrippedthefrontofhergownandhermouthhungopen.“Oh,sweetJesus,hasBeckyhadanaccident?”
“Maywecomeinside?”Jennaliftedherchin.
“Yes,ofcourse.”Sheturnedasamanwalkedfromasideroom.“Albie,something’shappenedtoBecky.”
Kanelookedatthedistraughtman.“Istheresomewherewecansitdown?”
“Yes,inhere.”Themanwavedthemintothefamilyroomandstoodinthemiddlestaringatthem.
“Mr.andMrs.Powell,pleasesitdown.”Jennawaitedforthemtositonthesofa.“I’msorrytoinformyou,Beckyisdead.”
“How?Sheneverdrivesfast.”Mr.Powelllookedupatthem,hisfacedrainedofcolor.“Whathappenedtoourlittlegirl?”
“I’mafraidthatisyettobedetermined.”Jennasatopposite.“ShewasfoundaboutanhouragoinahouseonStanton.Iidentifiedheronscenebutwe’llneedyoutomakeaformalID.”
“Ineedtogotoher.”Mrs.Powellwasstaringstraightaheadobviouslyinshock.“She’llbeallalone.Sheneedshermother.”
Kaneclearedhisthroat.“She’snotalone,Dr.ShaneWolfethemedicalexaminerandhisdaughterEmilyarewithher.She’singoodhands,safehands.”
“Whenthen?”Mr.Powellseemedtoshakehimselfandtookhiswife’shand.
“Tomorrowattenatthemedicalexaminer’soffice.”Jennalookedfromonetotheother.“YoumentionedBeckywasdrivingtonight,whatisthemakeandcolorofhervehicle?”
“It’saredChevroletEquinoxSUV.”Mr.Powelllookedtroubled.“Shesaidshewasgoingtomeetfriendsatthelibrary.Shecamehomefordinnerandthenwentbackout.Itoldhernottobelatebecauseofschooltomorrow.Shepromisedtobehomebynine-thirty.Weweregettingworried.”
“Doyourecallthenamesofanyofthefriendsshewasgoingtomeet?”Jennatookouthernotepad.
“Someboy,Ithink.”Mrs.Powelllookedatherhusband.“Shedressedrealprettyandwassoexcitedshehardlytouchedhermeal.”
Kanenodded.“So,nonamesyoucanrecall?Whatwasshewearing?”
“Whatdoyoumeanbythat?”Mr.Powell’seyeswidened.“Areherclothesmissing?”
“Weneedalisttomakesurenothingismissing.”JennaflickedKaneameaningfulglance.“Ifyoudon’tmind?”
“Whitetopandadenimskirt,shewaswearingherboots.Browncowboybootswithfringes.”Mrs.Powell’seyesfilledwithtears.“Shetookabackpackandherpompoms.Isawherputtingthemintoherbag.”
Kanenodded.“Isthereanyonewecancall,familyoraminister?”
“No,we’llcallthefamily.”Mr.Powellranbothhandsdownhisface.“It’sbettercomingfromus.I’llcallherbrothers,they’rebothawayatcollege.Andthentherestofthefamily.”Hepushedunsteadilytohisfeet.“Tentomorrowatthemedicalexaminer’soffice,yousaid?”
“Yes,that’sright.”Jennastoodandhandedhimhercard.“Ifthere’sanythingyouneedorcanrecall,pleasecontactme,dayornight.”
Kanelookedatthedevastatedcouple.“We’llseeourselvesout.I’msosorryforyourloss.”Heledthewayoutsideandbacktohistruck.
“Itwillhitthemsoon.”Jennaclimbedintotheseatandpushedonherhat.“Afterwedropbyfortakeout,swingpastthelibraryparkinglot.WemightlocateBecky’svehicle.”Sheletoutanexplosivesigh.“It’sgoingtobealongnightbutwe’llhavetokeepgoing.We’llneedmoreevidenceifwe’regoingtocatchthekiller.”
THIRTY-FOUR
SteambillowedasthehotshowerspilledoverherandwashedeverytraceofBeckyPowellfromherhairandskin.Thescentofrosesfilledtheroom,removingthesmellofthedyinggirlandbleach.She’dshampooedtwiceandscrubbedherskinaftersneakingintothehouseandundressinginthelaundry.She’ddumpedherclothesinthewashingmachineandcleanedherbootswithbleachbeforecreepingupstairstotheshower.Onceshewasdone,she’dtakeherlaundrydownstairsandstartthemachine.Withinthehour,she’dhaveeverythinginthedryerallspickandspan.
HermindreplayedseeingBeckydie.Itwasasifshecouldrelivethemoment,rewind,andfastforwardatwill.Herheartstillpoundedatthememoryofthelookinherboyfriend’seyesasheraisedtheflashlight.Theevilinhimhadthrilledher.Itwasn’tthekilling;itwasmakinghimdoitforher.Powerhadsurgedthroughher.Afterthey’ddraggedBeckyagainstthewallandturnedherheadtowatchthem,hiskisshadbeenbrutal.She’dpushedhimawayandenjoyedseeinghimcrushedatherrejectionbutthere’dbeennotimetowaste,they’dhadtoleaveandhe’dfollowedherorderslikeapetdog.Shecontrolledhimnow.He’dneverleaveher.
Afterdryingherhair,shewrappedatowelaroundherandcollectedherthings,creepingdownstairstothelaundry,settingthemachine,andslippingbackunnoticed.Shecheckedthetime;oflate,shetimedeverything.Thewashingmachinecycletookthirtyminutesonasmallloadandshecouldsetthetimeronthedryerandgotobed.Notthatsleepbeckonedher.Shewonderedifherboyfriendhadaddedthepompomstotheircollectionintheoldbarn.Theylookedgoodsidebysideontheshelf.Noonewentthere,itwastheirsecretplace.Sincehispahadleft,theyweretheonlypeopletovisittheoldbarn.
HermindwenttoVickyPerez.Planningoutherdemiseexhilaratedher.Sheenjoyedfrighteningpeopleandafterchasingdownthepregnantwomanatthehouseandhearingherbegforherlife,shewantedmore.Anindescribablerushfilledherattheexpressionsontheirfaceswhentheyknewtheyweregoingtodie.Ifshecouldmakeitlastlonger,itwouldfeedherraginghungerfordeath
THIRTY-FIVE
JennaplacedtheboxcontainingcoffeeandsnacksfortheteaminthebackoftheBeastandcovereditwithablanket.ShejumpedintothepassengerseatandwavedahandatKane.“Drivepastthelibraryparkinglot.”Shebuckledup.“Wemightbeluckyforonceandfindhervehicle.”
“Ifwedo,I’llcheckitforprintsbutIdoubtthekillerwouldhavesetfootnearit.”Kaneturnedintothelibraryparkinglot.“He’stoocareful.”Thelightsmovedinanarcacrossthelot.“Well,wehaveahit.”
“Thankgoodness.”Jennasmiledathim,pullingbacktheurgetogivehimahigh-five.“I’llruntheplates.Yougocheckforprints.”
AstheMDTworkedthroughitsprogramandconfirmedtheowner,shewaitedforKaneashedustedandliftedfingerprintsfromthevehicle.Innotime,hewasback.“I’veaddedthemtothefileandsentacopytoWolfeforidentification.”HeturnedthetruckaroundandheadedbacktoRowley’soldhouse.“Ihopethecoffeewillstillbehot.It’sgottenquitecoldtonight.”
Jennanodded.“SodoI.”Sheturnedinherseattolookathim.“ThecoffeeisinThermoses;we’llhavetodropthembacktoAuntBetty’sinthemorningbutI’msureRowleywillneedsomethinghotandthecoffeeatthehospitalisdisgusting.”
“Yeah,Iremember.”Kanepulledaface.“IwonderhowSandyisdoing?”
Jennatuckedherhairbehindoneearandadjustedherhat.“Jakewouldhavecalledifithadbeenbadnews.I’mkeepingmyfingerscrossed.”
Astheypulledupoutsidethehouse,JennaspottedaBlackwaterSheriff’sDepartmentvehicleoutsidewithadeputyonduty.ShegavehimawaveasKanepulledupbehindRio’scruiser.ItwasCarterwhogreetedthematthedoorandJennanoddedtohim.“AnythinghappeningIneedtoknowabout?”
“Tons.”CarterindicatedtoWolfe’svan.“Wolfehasthevictiminhisvanbuthe’swaitedforyoubeforeheleaves.There’ssomethingheneedstoshowyouupstairs.Thescene’sbeenprocessed,youwon’tneedbootiesjustgloves.”
“I’lltakethecoffeeintothefamilyroomandberightbehindyou.”Kaneheadeddownthehallway.
“Sure.”JennaglovedupasshefollowedCarterupstairs.Sheenteredthefirstbedroomandscannedthewearyfaces.“We’vesetupcoffeeinthefamilyroomifanyoneneedsabreak.”ShelookedatWolfe.“Whathaveyougotforme,Shane?”
“Ah,I’mgladyou’reback.”WolfeturnedtoEmily.“Goandgrabmeacup,I’mdeadonmyfeet.”HeturnedbacktoJenna.“We’vefoundadistinctdifferencetothebloodspatterinvolvedinbothcrimes.”WolfeturnedasKaneboundedintotheroom.“Ifyoulookhere…”Hepointedtodropletsofbloodonthefloorandaboveontheceiling.“Lookatthearcandthepatternofbloodspatter.Thisisthetransferpatternfromabluntinstrumentafterithitsthevictim,andwe’reassumingfromSandy’sstatementitwasaflashlight.Thekillerbroughtitupinanarcafterstrikingthevictim.Thesecondblowpicksupthevictim’sbloodandcentrifugalforceflingsitoutinanarc.”
Jennastaredatthebloodspatterandnodded.“Yeah,thisindicatesthekillerraisedtheweaponabovetheirheadsmorethanonce.”
“Butthere’smore.”Cartermovedthetoothpickacrosshislipsandsmiledather.“NowlookatwhereSandywasattacked.”Heledthewaydownthehallwayandintothefrontbedroom.“Whatdoyousee?”
WhydidCartermakeherfeellikearookie?Jennasighed.“Yeah,it’sthesamethinghere.Sandytoldushowthisoccurred,whatareyougettingat,Carter?”
“It’sthesizeofthearcmadebytheblood.”Kanesteppedbesideher.“Thisproveswehavetwokillers.”Heshrugged.“Anarcispartofacircle,sobydeterminingthesizeofthearc,wecanobtainthekiller’sheight.Thekiller’sheightwitharmoutstretchedplusweapon—”hedemonstratedwithhisarm“—isthediameterofthearc.”
“That’sinteresting.”Jennastaredatthebloodspatter.“So,whodoweneedtomakethesecalculations?Geometrywasneverastrongsubjectofmine.”
“Ialreadymadethecalculations.”Rioshrugged.“Sandy’sattackerwasfive-fiveandthevictim’sclosetosixfeet.”HehandedJennahisnotebookwithprecisediagrams.“FromtheviolenceofthefirstvictimandthemanyattemptstokillBecky,Iwouldbelookingatamanandawomanteaminguptomurder.”
“Thereissomethingelse.”Carterinclinedhishead.“Thevictim’sbackpackhadn’tbeentouchedbyanyonebuther,butitwasopen.Icheckedinside.HerclothesaremissinglikeintheLaurieTurnercase,andWebberfoundapartofapompomonthestairs.We’llneedtoconfirmitfromherparentsbutIthinkshehadherpompomswithher.Ifigurewhoeverdidthistookherclothesandherpompoms.Trophiesperhaps?”
ThelastthingJennaneededwasanotherserialkillerorkillersintown.Shepressedherlipstogetherandthoughtforabeat.“Yeah,I’mofthesameopinionandherparentsmentionedshehadtakenherpompomswithher.”
“Anotherthing.”Wolfenarrowedhisgaze.“WhenwedotheautopsyonBecky,I’llhaveSandyreleaseherX-raysandscanstomeforcomparison.We’llbeabletocalculatetheforceusedineachcase.”HelookedatJenna.“Fromthisevidence,andthespatterwefoundatLaurieTurner’scrimescene,wecanassumethesamepersoninflictedwoundsonbothLaurieandSandy.Theybothcamebackasapersonaroundfive-five.”HelookedatJenna.“ThisisallIneedhere.I’llwaitforWebbertofinishcheckingthetrashbinsandthengetthebodyonice.I’llbringtheteamoveraftertheparents’viewingandwe’lldoawalkthroughindaylightandthen,youcangetthecleanersin.”
Jennanodded.“Okaygreat.”SheglancedatRio.“Thanksforstayingback.”
“Mypleasurebutifthecoffeeisinato-gocup,I’llgrabonefortheridehome.”RiostoodtoonesideasJennaheadeddownstairs.
“We’llbedoingthesame.”Jennalookedoverhershoulderathim.“We’reheadingforthehospitalnexttocheckonSandy.IfigureRowleywillneedadecentcupofcoffeeaswell.”
AfterWebberreturnedwiththenewsthathe’dfoundnothingofinterestinthegarbage,Jennareturnedtheunusedcoffeeandfoodtothebox.ShesmiledtoherselfasKanegrabbedsandwichesfromabagandfilledtwo,to-gocupsofcoffeefromtheThermos.ShetookthecoffeefromhimandfollowedKaneouttohistruck.“Nothingspoilsyourappetite,doesit?”Shesetthetwoto-gocupsofcoffeeintheconsoleandstaredathim.
“Somethingsdo.”Kanepulledtheplasticwrapoffapastramionryeandbitintoitwithasigh.“Butwhenthejobgetsinthewayofstayinghealthyit’stimetoquit.Eatingwhenunderstressiscalming.”Heindicatedtowardthesandwich.“Eat,it’sgoingtobealongnight.”
Jenna’sphonechimedandshestaredatthecallerID.ItwasRowley.Herheartpickedupabeatandsheputthecallonspeaker.“IsSandyokay?”
“Yeah,she’llbeokay.”Rowleysoundedexhausted.“Thebabiestoo.Shehasaconcussionandneededsixstitchesinthewoundonherheadandthreeabovehereye.”Heletoutalongsigh.“I’mstayingwithhertonight.MyfolksbroughtmeachangeofclothesbutI’vesentthemhomenow.Sandycan’thavevisitors.Theywanthertoresthereforacoupleofdays.”
Jennanodded.“Takeallthetimeyouneed,Jake.”Shestaredatthesandwichonherknee.“We’lldropbyanyway.IhaveaThermosofhotcoffeeandsandwichesfromAuntBetty’sifyouwantthem?”
“Oh,boy.I’mfamished.Thankyou.I’llcomedownandmeetyououtfront.I’msureyouwanttogetonhome.”
JennaglancedatKane.“We’releavingnow,headondown.”Shedisconnected.“ThankGodshe’sokay.”
“Yeah.”Kanelickedhisfingersandthenstartedthetruck.“It’sjustaswellorwe’dhavehadavigilantedeputyonourhands.Ifigureyou’llneedtokeepJakeonashortleash.Usguysdon’ttaketookindlytopeoplehurtingourwomenfolk.”
THIRTY-SIX
Wednesday
SleepinginjusthappenedtobetheonethingthatneverhappenedtoJenna.Shesatboltuprightwhenascrapecameonherbedroomdoor,followedbyathumponthebedandagoodfacewashingbyDuke.“Yuk,howdidyougetout?”Shepushedhimawaybutcouldn’tresistrubbinghisearsbeforereachingforapacketofwipesonherbedsidetableandwashingherface.
“You’llhurthisfeelings.”Kane’svoicesoundedmuffled.
“Dave?”Sheblinkedintothedimlight.“Issomethingwrong?”
“Nope,I’mjustcheckingonyouisall?”Kanepokedhisheadaroundthedoor.“Whenyoudidn’tshowforworkbyeight,Istartedtoworryandletmyselfin.WhenIsawyouweresoundasleep,Iputonapotofcoffee.”
Bewildered,Jennastaredatthebedsideclock.HerusualmorningworkoutstartedatsixwithKaneafterthey’dtendedthehorses.Byeight-ten,sheshouldbeheadingfortheoffice.“Oh,darn.I’msorry,Ineveroversleep.”
“It’sallgood,RioisattheofficewithMaggie.Theybothfiguredwehadsomethingtodothismorningandanyway,Ineededsomesparetimetoupdatethefiles.We’reallsquaredawaynow.”Kanecarriedtwocupsofcoffeeintotheroomandplacedthemonthebedsidetable.“IcalledRowley.Sandyisdoingokay.She’sabitbatteredandwillbestayingforadayorso.Thedoctorwantshertorest.Rowley’sfatherhasofferedtotendtheanimalsandwillstayontheranchuntilSandyishome.”Hesighed.“ItoldRowleytotakeallthetimeheneeds.Hecan’tbeinvolvedintheinvestigationandmightaswellbewithSandywhensheneedshim.”
Relieved,Jennanoddedinagreementbutherheadhurt.“That’sgoodnewsaboutSandy.”Shepattedtheedgeofthebed.“Sitdown.”Sheleanedbackinthepillows.“Whydidyouletmesleepsolong?”
“Youfellasleeponthedrivehome,Jenna.Youhaven’trecoveredfromtheheadinjury.You’velikelybeenwalkingaroundwithconcussion.Mr.Lawbeltedyouprettyhard.”Kanesatbesideherandgentlytouchedthebruiseunderhereye.“ThebruiseonyourfaceispurpleandIknowithurts.Anextrahourorsoisn’tgoingtomakeanydifferencetotheinvestigation.”Hehandedheracup.“We’rewaitingonaformalIDonthelastvictim.Riohasalreadyissuedamediareport—it’sgenericandIapprovedit—soitwillmakethenews.HedidmentionwearelookingforasilverGMCtruckandhasaskedtheownertocomeforward.”
Jennasippedhercoffee.“Goodluckwiththat.”Shetookhishandandsqueezed.“Thanksforcoveringforme.IguessIdidneedtherest.MyfacedoeshurtandmyheadachessomebutIdon’tfeelconcussedjustexhausted.It’sbeenagruelingweeksofar.”
“Withtwomurderstosolve…”Kanesmiledruefully.“It’sonlygoingtogetworsebeforeitgetsbetter.”
“ItseemsRioarrivedjustintime.”Jennafinishedhercoffee.“I’llhavehimhuntingdownoursuspectstodiscoverwheretheywerelastnight.”
“Hmm,wellmostofthemwouldhavebeenatthefestival.”Kanesippedhiscoffeeandstaredatthewallthinking.“WyattCooperseemedtovanishaftertheparadeandIdon’trecallseeinghimwithanyofthegroupsofpeoplehangingaroundtown.IfigureweshouldpickupwhereweleftoffandseehowhereactstoknowinghisDNAwasatLaurie’smurderscene.”
ReluctantlyJennareleasedhishandandsighed.“Wecan’ttellhimaboutthebriefs,it’sapartoftheevidenceIwantsuppressed.It’sasignature.Idon’twantanypotentialcopycatkillersgettinginontheact.”
“So,wejusttellhimabouthisDNAandwatchhisreaction.”Kanestoodandlookeddownather.“I’llcook,whileyoushower.”Helingeredatthedoor.“I’mleavingDukehometodayaswehavetheautopsythisafternoonandsomefollow-upinterviews.Ifigurehe’dappreciatetimewithPumpkinandthehorsesratherthanbeingstuckintheofficeallday.”Herubbedhisshoulderandmovedhisarmaroundincirclesasifithurt.“Cartercalledearlier.HesaidJoistakingJaimeoutforthedayandhe’sgoingfishing.Ifigureitwashiswayofremindingusthey’reonvacation.”
Jennafrowned.“Istheresomethingwrongwithyourarm?”
“Maybe.”Kanethoughtforabeatasifdecidingtotellhersomething.“I’llaskWolfetocheckitwhenwegofortheautopsy.”Hestaredattheceilingasifcontemplatingwhattosay.“I’llgomakebreakfast.”
Insteadofleavingtheroom,hegrabbedthenotepadbesideherbedandscribbledanote.Aflashofannoyancemovedoverhisface.
I’msureI’vebeenchippedandIfigureit’smoved.IcutoneoutwhenIreturnedaftermylastassignment.IfigurewhenIwasshot,theyreplaceditsomewhereIcouldn’treachit.Thechipsarenotonlyusedforlocationtheycanpickupeveryword.Ifit’sthere,Iwantitout.Iftheycan’ttrustmebynow,theyneverwill.
Annoyedandastounded,Jennaswallowedhardandtookthepenfromhishandsandwroteback.
Ifyouhaveone,theydon’ttrustmeeither.I’llaskWolfetocheckmetoo.Howwillheknow?
JennapassedthenotepadbacktoKaneandrubbedhershoulderfeelingallaroundforalump
Kanewrotefast.
He’llrunascanneroveryou.They’dhavechippedyouforsurewhenyouwentundercover.They’dneedtoknowwhereyouwereincaseyoumissedacontact.
Infuriated,Jennanoddedandmouthed“Okay”beforeheadingsilentlytothebathroom.
Afterbreakfast,Jennastoodforafewmoments,inhalingthefreshairandallowingtheperfumesoffalltocenterher.Asafragrantbreezeliftedherhair,shestaredacrossthelowlandsandturnedtoenjoytheviewofthemountains,thepeaceandserenityawayfromthecrazinessofherjob.Herhomehadthebestofbothworldsandwastheonereasonshe’dpurchasedtheranch.IthadchangedsomuchsinceKanearrived.Apartfromhisskillsasacrimefighter,heseemedtobeabletoturnhishandtojustaboutanything.Theranchhadbeenpainted,thevastroomsandthecellarchangedintoagymwithhottub.Changeshadbeenmadeallaround,thestables,thecorrals.She’dhaveneverbeenabletodoeverythingonherown—ithadbeengoodtohaveamanaround.Shesmiledathimandclimbedintothetruck.“Youknow,thedayyouwalkedintomylife,Ithoughtyou’dbeensenttokillme.Ohboy,myinstinctswereoffthatday.ThingshavebeenarollercoasterbetweenusovertheyearsbutIwouldn’tchangeathing.”
“Well,Icouldhavedonewithouttheinjuries.”Kaneflashedherawhitesmile.“I’mgladIcameheretoo,puttingasideallthemurdersanddanger,meetingyouandtheteamhasbeenlikefindingmyfamily.Thisismyhome.I’mnotgoinganywhere,Jenna.Ibelonghere.”
Jennaleanedbackandsighed.“Iknow,Ido.”
Fallleavesblewacrosstheblacktopastheyheadedalongthequietroadstowardtown.JennawasenjoyingtheviewasKaneaccelerateduptheon-ramptothehighway.Withoutwarningheslammedonthebrakes,sendingJennasurgingforwardagainstherseatbelt.AspeedingsilverGMCtruckfishtailedpastthembarelymissingthefrontoftheBeast.Ithitthedirtalongsideofthehighwaysendingashowerofrocksandcloudsofdustinitswake.Shestaredafterthevehicleasitdisappearedintothedistance.“Jerk!He’sanaccidentwaitingtohappen.Ifhegoesthroughtownatthatspeed,he’sgoingtokillsomeone.Isn’tthattruckamatchtothevehicleseenoutsideRowley’shouseduringthemurder?Gogethim,Dave.”
“Mypleasure.”Kaneflickedonlightsandsirensandthetruckliftedwitharoarandshotoffalongthehighway.
Theblacktopturnedintoablacksnakewindingawaythroughaseaofgreen,andothervehiclesbecameflashesofcolorastheyspedby.Tornbetweenexhilarationandfear,Jennagrippedtheseat.Shetriedtorelaxandenjoytherushofspeedbutshepreferredtobeincontrol.TrustingKane’sdrivinghadtakensometimetogetusedto.Fearlesscameclosebutfoolhardyhewasn’t.Theyslowedtotakeasweepingbendandthenthepowerfulenginethrewherbackinherseat.TheBeasthadbecomeanunstoppablemissile.
IthadbeennamedtheBeastforareason.Trickedoutdidn’tdescribeKane’scustom-builttruckbutthename,howeverwentclosetodescribingthepowerandprotectionitprovided.BeforeKanearrivedinBlackRockFallsthespeciallydesignedtruckhadbeenmadetoprotecthim.Reinforcedlikeatankwithbulletproofwindows,itsspeciallydesignedmotorwasupdatedyearlytokeeptheBeastrunningatpremiumperformance.ItwasinfactarocketonwheelsandKanecouldtakeitapartandreassembleitblindfold.Hedroveitasifitwasanextensionofhimself,whichtakingintoconsiderationtheweightandpowerofthevehicletookskill.She’ddrivenitonceortwiceandithadbeenlike
Astheyflewpassedeighteen-wheelers,Jennagrippedtighterbutwhentheypassedothervehicleswithazip,zip,zip,shechancedaglanceatthespeedo.Theywerehitting150mphonthestraightandaheadthesilvertruckwashammeringforallitwasworth.“Canwecatchit?”
“Oh,yeah.”Kanegrinned.“We’rerunningonnitro,ifwewentanyfaster,we’dbeairborne.”Hechuckled.“Trustme,theupgradesIworkonwithWolfeduringthedowntimemakethevehiclesinspymovieslookliketoys.”
AstheycamelevelwiththesilverGMC,amanlookedwildlyoutthewindow.Jennagapedindisbelief.“That’sLaw.Hemustbeoutonbail.Whyishedrivinglikeamadman?”
“Howishedriving?”Kanestaredatthevehicle.“Ifiguredyou’dputhiminthehospital,yousurekickedhimhard.”
“Clearlynothardenough.”Jennapickedupthemicrophone.“Pullovernoworwe’llramyou.DoitnowMr.Law.Youcan’tgetaway.”
Thetruckedpulledupandbouncedandskiddedonthedirtalongsidetheblacktop.TheystoppedbehindhimandJennaclimbeddownfromthecab,drawingherweapon.Peoplegotonechancewithhertobeniceandasherfacestillhurtfromtheslapshe’dreceivedfromthismanshewasn’tgivinghimasecondchance.“HandswhereIcanseethem.”Shemovedclosertothedoor.“Areyoucarryingaweapon?”
ThetruckdoorflewopenandLawcameoutlikeatornadowithhisfistsflying.Sheduckedawayashisknucklesbrushedoverthetopofherhead.Sheturnedandcaughtaflashinthesunlightashedrewaknife.ShetookaimbutKanehadmovedintoherlineoffire,placinghimselfbetweenherandtheblade.Thenextmoment,Lawwasonhim,wavingtheknifefromsidetosideasifcompletelyoblivioustothefactbothofthemwerearmed.
“Youwantsomeofthis?”Law’seyesblazedwithfury.“I’mgonnagutyoufromnaveltoneck.”
InthenextinstantKanehadknockedtheknifefromLaw’shand.Agruntandascufflewasfollowedbythesoundofaslaplikeagunshot.JennakeptherweapontrainedonLaw.Thesuddenlysubduedmanwasbug-eyedandpressedagainsthistruckholdinghischeek.
“Handsbehindyourback,Law.”KanepulledLaw’shandsbehindhimandcuffedhim.
JennastaredatthehuntingknifeglintingontheblacktopandthenbackupatLaw.He’ddecidedinasplitsecondofmadnesstogutherandKane,foraspeedingfine.
“Hehitme.”LawglaredatKanewithcontemptandrubbedhisreddenedcheekononeshoulder.“Yousawhim.That’spolicebrutality.”
“Iwaswithinmyrightstoshootyouforpullingaknifeonthesheriffbutwhenyouresistedarrest,Ifigured,nah,givethisguyatasteofhisownmedicine.”Kanesmiledathim.“Howdoesitfeeltobeslapped,huh?Itreatedyouthesamewayasyoutreatyourwife.Nowyouunderstandwhatit’sliketobebulliedandbeatenbysomeonebiggerthanyou.I’msureyou’llfindoutjusthowitfeelstoliveinfearwhenyou’reinjail.Mostintheredon’ttaketookindlytomenwhobeatonwomen.”
JennareadLawhisrights.“I’llbechargingyouforrecklessdriving,armedattackonalawenforcementofficer,andresistingarrest.”ShepulledoutherphoneandcalledRio.“We’reoutonthehighwayaboutfivemilessouthoftown.Comeandpickupaprisoner.”ShedisconnectedandlookedatKane.“Rioisonhisway.”SheleanedintoLaw’struckandgrabbedhiskeys.“Getinthebackseat,Mr.Law.Youcansitinthere.”Shewaitedforhimtoclimbinsideandlockedthetruck.
“Wecould’vetakenhimintotown.”Kane’seyesnarrowed.
Jennashookherhead.“He’dlikelyhavespatatusortriedtoheadbuttmefrombehind.”Sheglancedatthemannowsubduedinthebackofhisvehicle.“Hemustbeonsomething.Nooneisstupidenoughtoattacktwoarmedofficers.”
“I’mwonderingwhythehurry.”Kanestaredathisboots.“Hemusthavebeengivenbaillateyesterdayandwenthome,whycomebacktoBlackRockFalls?He’dhaveanorderagainsthimnottogonearhiswife.”
Jennashookherhead.“We’llneedtofindout.”Shewaitedforhimtomeethereyes.“Whydidyoublockmylineoffireandstepbetweenmeandtheknife?”
“Youwereonthebackfoot,afterduckingfromthefirstblow.”Kaneshrugged.“He’dhavestabbedyoubeforeyouhadtimetoraiseyourweaponandaim.Iwaswatchingyourbackisall.”Hegaveheralonglook.“Iusednecessaryforcetosubduehim.Isureashelldidn’twanthimdead.Hedeservesjailtimeingeneralpopulation.Ifigureitwillchangehisoutlookonlifeandhisattitudetowomen.”
THIRTY-SEVEN
He’dtossedandturnedallnight,searchedtheinternetforanswers,andfinallyfoundwhatheneededontheschool’swebsite.ItwasabioforDr.RobertTurner,theshrinkhiredbytheschooltofixkids’headsandhejusthappenedtobeLaurie’spa.Thepostwasdirectedtobothparentsandstudents,statingcompleteconfidentialityonanymatterofconcern.BeckyPowell’sdeathhadbeenalloverthenews,nothernamebutthefactagirl’sbodyhadbeenfoundintown.Hecouldn’teathisbreakfastandwentbacktohisroom.Hereadandre-readthepostaboutthedoctorbeforeheadingtoschoolandthemomenthewalkedintothebuilding,hewenttotheoffice.“IwanttospeaktoDr.Turner.”
“You’renotrequiredtogiveareasonoryourname…well,tomeanyway.”Thewomanbehindthecounterlookedhimover.“Ifit’sanexcusetogetoutoffailingyourgrades,hewon’thelpyou.”
Herubbedthebackofhisneckandtriedtocomeupwithanexcuse.“I’vebeenhavingrealbaddreams.Ineedtospeaktosomeoneaboutthemisall.”
“Oh,sure.”Sheliftedthephoneonherdeskandspoketosomeoneinhushedtonesandthenlookedupathim.“Itmustbeyourluckyday,he’sfreenow.Youcangostraightin.Thirddoorontheleft.Whenyou’redonedropbyandI’llissueyouahallpass.”
Henoddedandtriedtosquashtherollinginhisstomach.Wouldspeakingtothedoctorabouthisfearsbetrayhisgirl?Turnercouldn’tsayanythingtoanyone,soheshouldbesafe.Noonewouldknowhe’dbeentoseehim.Heknockedonthedoorandsteppedinside.Ratherthanacouchthedoctorsatbehindadeskandlookedathimoverhisspectacles.
“You’rehavingbaddreams?”Turnerleanedforwardandrestedhisclaspedhandsonthedesk.“Sitdown.”
“No,Isaidthattocomeandseeyou.”Hesprawledinthechair.“NothingIsayheregoesanyfurther,right?”
“That’scorrect,patient-doctorconfidentiality,buttoaffordyouthat,I’llneedyourname.”Turnerfrowned.“What’sonyourmind?”
Hegavehisnameandthenchosehiswordscarefully,makinglikehehadthesefriendsthathefiguredwerealittlecrazybecausetheykepttalkingaboutkillinggirls.Whenthedoctoraskedquestions,hetoldhimwhathadbeenreportedinthepressbutleftoutanyotherdetails.Hesaidhewasfrightenedforhislife,thathisfriendsmighttryandkillhimiftheyknewhe’drattedonthem.
“Well,unlessyougivemetheirnames,you’renotrattingonanyonebutasmydaughterLauriewasmurdered,anyassistanceyoucanofferthesheriffwillbedealtwithinthestrictestconfidence.”Turnerlookednonplusedasifdiscussinghismurdereddaughterhappenedeveryday.“Shewasacheerleaderlikehermom.They’dpracticetogetherbutIwasgladwhenmywifeleft.IwantedLaurietostopcheerleading.Irefusedtowatchherflauntherselfinfrontofeveryonelikeacommonwhore.”
Stymied,hestaredatTurner.“Yousaying,youfigureshedeservedtobemurdered?”
“Noofcoursenot.”Turner’sfistsclenchedonthedesk.“Let’ssaysheattractedthewrongsortofattention.Footballplayersaretroubleandsheknewtherisksshewastaking.”
Herubbedhischin.Thiswasn’tgoingashe’dexpectedandthedoctorwasnohelpatall.“Theplayersareokayguys.She’dhavebeensaferifshe’dhadaboyfriend.”
“Boyfriend?”Turnerleanedbackinhischair.“Shewassixteen.That’stooyoungtobeinvolvedwithanyone,shewasaskingfortroublegoingoutwithWyattCooperandItoldherso.”
“So,howcanyouhelpme?”Helookedacrossthedesk.“They’vekilledagain.Lastnight.Itwasanothercheerleader.”
“Howwouldyouknowdetailsaboutthemurderunlessyouwereinvolved?”Turner’scomboverdroppedoverabrowbeadingwithsweatandstucklikeaflyinhoney.“Didyoukillmydaughter?Orwereyouinvolvedinsomeway?”
“No!Ididn’tkillLaurie.Thishappenedlastnight.Aren’tyoulisteningtome?”Uneasecrawledoverhim.“Youknow,Icamehereforhelp,there’snoneedtostartinterrogatingmelikethecops.I’minfearformylife,man.TheywouldkillmeiftheyknewI’dbeenhere.”
“Iknowyouwerethere.”Turnerglaredathim.“Youhadtobetoknowthedetails.Icanonlyhelpyouifyoutellmethetruth.”
Panicsweptoverhim.“IwastherebutIdidn’tkillanyone.”
“Ifyouareasinnocentasyouclaim,evenifyou’reinfearforyourlife,thesheriffcan’thelpyou.You’dbechargedwithmurderbyassociation…forjustbeingthereandnotstoppingit.”Turnertookafoldedhandkerchiefoutofhispocketanddabbedathisface.“Now,ifyouwantmyprotection,you’llhavetocomecleanandtellmeeverything.”
“That’sallIcantellyou.”HewenttorisebutTurnerraisedahandtostophim.Heglaredathim.“Whydoyouwantmetostay?You’vebeennohelpatall.NowyoufigureI’minvolvedinLaurie’smurder.”Hestaredathim.“DoyoufigureI’dcomeandconfesstoherfather,ifIhad?I’mnotthatstupid.Ishouldn’thavecomehere.Ican’tgivetheothersuptothesheriff.IfoneofthemnoticedmecominginherethenI’madeadmanwalking.Ineededyourhelp.”
“Okay.Iguessifyou’dbeenwiththoseboyswhentheykilledthatgirllastnightbutdidn’tparticipate,Icouldhelpyou.”Turnerwasclearlytryinghardtocomposehimselfandhismouthtwitchedintoagrimace.“Infact,Iwouldgiveyouanalibi.”Heclearedhisthroat.“Andmaybeevenoneforlastnightaswelldependingonhowyoucooperate.Yousee,thesheriffhasmeonherlistofsuspectsaswell.Theparentsarealwaystheirfirstsuspects,andIdon’tneedherhasslingme.”
“Okay.”Hehunghishead,notwantingtodivulgehispartinthemurders,butthedoctorhadofferedhimalifeline.“Theytoldmelastnightthey’dkilledanothergirl,inahousejustoffMain.”Heliftedhishead.“Whattheytoldmemademesicktomystomach,soIhadtotalktosomeone.”
“Isthereanythingelseyouremember?Everythingyou’vesaidaboutLauriehasbeeninthepapers.Toconfirmtheirinvolvement,you’dhavetoknowsomethingthatonlythekillerswouldknow.Thisincludesthetimeofthemurders.Thatinformationiscrucialtoprovidinganalibi.”
Hepushedahandthroughhishair.“I’llgiveitsomethoughtandgetbacktoyou.”
“Good.”Turner’seyesbrightened.“I’llgiveyoumynumberandifthishappensagain,youmustgivemethetimeandI’llsayyouwerewithme.I’llcallyou,toconfirmdifferenttimesyouhadasessionwithmeaswelloritwillappearthatyouonlycametoseemewhenamurdertookplace.”Helookedathim.“TellmeeverythingyourememberandI’llprotectyoubutyoumustbackmeup.IfIsayyou’vebeenhavingcounselingsessionswithmeatthetimeofthemurdersoratanyothertimeIgiveyou,youmustconfirmit.Areweclear?”
“Yeah,anythingyousay,Doc.”HesmiledatTurner.Hehadhimhook,line,andsinker.He’dgivehimjustatasteofwhathappenedandleaveoutthegruesomestuff.“Yeah,theysaidthey’dstrangledthemandthentookoneoftheirpompoms.”
THIRTY-EIGHT
Afterwavingawayoffersofhelp,JennadeliveredthepaperworktothejudgeforanarrestwarrantforLaw,andwentfromtheretospeaktotheDA.She’ddiscoveredduringabriefinterviewwithMr.Law,thathe’dbeenreleasedyesterdayandwasoutsearchingforhiswife.He’dadmittedtosubstanceabuse.DocBrownhaddroppedbyandtakenbloodfortesting.Lawwouldbecollectedbythecountyjailandwouldlikelyremainthereuntilhiscourthearing.
ItwaslunchtimebythetimeshereturnedtoherofficeandshemetKaneandRioheadingtothefrontdoorcarryingtakeoutfromAuntBetty’s.Shesmiledatthemandledthewayinside.“Comeintomyofficesowecanbringeveryoneuptospeedbeforeweleavefortheautopsy.”
Shestaredatthewhiteboard,noticingRiohadupdatedeverythingsinceshe’dleftthepreviousday.HewasanassettohavearoundbutshemissedRowleyandhadcheckedinwithhimwhenshe’darrivedearlier.Ithadtakenlittlepersuasiontoinsistheremainwithhiswifeuntilsherecovered.Shesighed.AtleastallwaswellwithSandybuthavingherinvolvedinahomicidehadgiventhecaseanastytwist.Itwouldseemthekillerorkillerswouldstopatnothingtosatisfytheircravingsformurder.
“What’sonyourmind?”Kanepushedabagandato-gocupofcoffeeacrossthedesktoher.
Jennapeeredintothebag.Shehadn’thadabagelandcreamcheeseforawhileandgaveKaneasmallsmileatthesightofit.HealwayscamebackfromAuntBetty’swithsomethingsheenjoyed.Shepulleditoutandtookabite,chewingslowlyasshethoughtthroughwhatneededtobedonebutfirst,sheneededanupdatefromRio.“AnycallscomeinaboutthesilverGMC?”
“Afew,andIhuntedthemdown.”Rioleanedbackinhischair.“TheywereownedbyneighborsofpeoplewhohavethesamevehicleandliveinStantonbuttheywereathomeoroutwatchingthefireworks.It’sapopulartruck,sowe’llhavetonsofsightings.”
UnabletoremovetheincidentwithMr.Lawearlierintheday,shestaredatthefileonhercomputerscreen.“LawwasreleasedlastnightandhasasilverGMC.He’saviolentoffender.Howdoweknowhe’snotinvolvedinthemurdersaswell?”
“Hehasn’tcomeuponourradar.”Kaneshrugged.“Andhedoesn’tfittheprofile.”
“I’mthinkingoutsidetheboxhere,Dave.”JennalookedatRio.“Checkhimoutwhilewe’reattheautopsyandhuntdownthepersonsofinterestonourlistanddiscovertheirlocationatthetimeofthemurder.Mostarehighschoolkidsbutdon’tforgetCoryHughes,herateshighonmylistofpossiblesuspects.”
“Sure,butI’mguessingmostofthekidswillhavebeenintownatthefestival.”Hetookabiteofhissandwichandwasheditdownwithcoffee.“Ihavetracedmedallionsoncowboyboots.They’repopularaswellbutonethingdidwavearedflagatme:they’reafeatureofthecheerleadingsquad’sboots.”Heputdownhissandwichandaccessedthefilesonhisphone.“Seeinthisgroupshot,theyallhavethemedallions.IguessshowingthistoSandyisoutofthequestion?”
Jennanodded.“Yeah,Idon’twanttocauseanymorestress.We’llspeaktoherassoonasherdoctorsaysit’sokay.Rightnow,they’rekeepingherquiet.”Shescannedthewhiteboardagain.“Cheerleadersarepartofourinvestigation.ConcentrateonVernaHughes,shefitstheprofileandcouldbeinvolved.MaybeincludeMarleneMooreaswellasbotharecheerleadersandfittheprofile.”SheturnedherattentiontoKane.“AnyinfofromCarteronwhat’shappeningwithStanWilliams?”
“FromwhatIunderstand,CartercontactedAgentJoshMartinfromtheChildExploitationandHumanTraffickingTaskForceandforwardedthefilesandourreports.”Kaneshrugged.“Youknowhowtheywork.Theywon’trushinandarresthim,theyhaveateamofpeoplewhogetinvolvedandtrackdowntheentirepedophilering.Ittakestimebuttheydon’twantonerattheywanttheentirenest.”
JennaandKanearrivedatthemedicalexaminer’sofficeatalittleafterone-thirty.AftergreetingWolfeintheirusualmanner,shewassurprisedtoseeKanehandWolfeanotewhichhereadandraisedbotheyebrows.Jennalookedfromonetotheotherandfollowedthemintohisoffice.Withoutsayingaword,Wolfetookadeviceoutofhisdrawerandstood.“Istillhavesomethingstodobeforewestarttheautopsy.Youmightaswellwaithere.Helpyourselftocoffee.”HehandedKanethedeviceandlefttheroom.
“It’slikewaitingtoseethedentist.”Kanemotionedhertostandandranthescanneroverherandthenhelditoutandshowedherthereading.
Astoundedtofindshehadatrackerimplantedunderherskin,Jennapulledasadface,tookthescannerfromKane,andmoveditoverhisshoulder.“Inevermindedthedentist.”Shehandedhimthereadingandcaughtthereactiononhisface.Hewasfuming.
“Whydon’tyoumakecoffee?Icoulddowithonerightnow.”Hetookouthisnotebookandscribbledanote.
Fromthereading,onlyminehasaudio.GoandtellWolfe,he’llknowwhattodo.
Jennanodded.“Youmakethecoffee.Ineedtovisitthebathroom.”SheheadedoutthedoorandWolfewasoutsideleaningagainstthewall.Shelookedathim.“OnlyDave’shasaudio.Youcan’tbeseentoremovethem.They’llknowweknow.”
“Theyshouldhavetoldmeatleast.”Wolfe’sbrowfurrowedintoafrown.“Don’tworry,There’saway.Wedestroythemfirstandthenremovethem.Theywon’tknowI’minvolved.”
Jennapushedherhairfromherfaceandsighed.“He’sangry.Whatcanyoudo,liketoday?”
“Simplestthingisastrongmagnet.”Wolferubbedthebackofhisneck.“Itdependshowsophisticateditisanditmayonlyscramblethecircuitsforafewseconds.”Hethoughtforabeat.“Givemesevenminutestoprepare,thencomeintoexaminationroomtwo.Theautopsywillbeinroomthree.Gethiminnumbertwowithouthisshirt,I’llsaysomethingabouthavingtoextractmetalfilingsfromabodybyusingapowerfulmagnet.They’llexpectsomedisturbance.Itwillgivemetimetoremovehisandwe’lldoyoursnext.”
JennanoddedandwroteatexttoKaneexplaining.Shehitsend.“Okay,howmuchisthisgoingtohurt?”
“Itdependshowdeepit’sembeddedbutyou’llneedacoupleofstitches.”Wolfeinclinedhishead.“You’renothavingsecondthoughts,areyou?YoudoknowIcan’ttrackyoufromthechip,that’swhyIsuppliedeveryonewithapersonaltracker.Yourringliketheotherdisguisedtrackersaretheonlydirectcontacttotheteammembers.”
“No,Iwantitremoved.”Jennapulledherhairbackintoaponytailandsecureditwithabandfromaroundherwrist.“It’snotthat,it’sjustknowingthateverytimeI’vebeenwithDave,someonehasbeenlistening.IknowaboutAnnie,hispastlife,andthatmakesmealiability.”
“Themomentyourecognizedhimasanagent,heaskedforpermissiontogiveyousomedetailsbecauseofyourclearance.”Wolfestaredintothedistanceoverhershoulderasifconsideringhiswordswithcare.“You’llneverknoweverythingabouthislife,orhisotheridentities.Ifanyonesearcheshisbirthname,they’dfindanautopsyreport,adeathcertificate,andagrave.He’dneverriskyoubydivulginghismissionsorthepeopleheworkedwithoverthattime.I’mnotblindandIknowyou’reclosenowbutifyou’replanningarelationship,I’dsuggestyoukeepitsecretandavoidaskingquestionsabouthispast.Hewon’ttellyoubecauseifhedid,you’dbetakenoutintheinterestsofnationalsecurity.”
Dismayed,Jennaswallowedhard.“So,marriageisoutofthequestion?Itwouldbetoomuchofariskfornationalsecurity?”
“Notnecessarily.IfyouappliedinadifferentcountyhereinMontanaforalicenseandsnuckofftoaJPorretiredjudge.”Wolferegardedherclosely.“Hasheaskedyoutomarryhim?”
“No,wehaven’tgotthatfaryet.”Jenna’sfacegrewhot.“Butwe’vetalkedabouthavingkidsandIknowhe’sgotoldschoolvalues.”
“Likeme.”Wolfesmiled.“Well,ifthetimecomes,I’lldowhatIcantohelp.”
Jennasqueezedhisarm.“That’sgoodtoknowbutweneverhadthisconversation,right?”
“Whatconversation?”Wolfelookedatherblanklyandshrugged.
JennachuckledandwavedbehindhertowardWolfe’soffice.“I’llleaveyoutogetready.”
SheheadedbacktoWolfe’soffice.Kanewasonhisfeet,hisjacketandT-shirtfoldedonWolfe’sdesk.Shestaredathim,takinginallthescarsonhisbodyandthenshookherheadindismayofwhathehadsufferedinthelineofduty.“Beforehestartstheautopsy,hewantstoshowushisnewtoyforextractingmetalfromflesh.It’ssometypeofsupermagnet.”
“Great.”Kaneheadedforthedoor.“Let’shaveatit.”
JennamadeidleconversationasWolfezappedKane’simplantandseemedtotakeagestoremoveit.ThedarnthinghadsettledinthemuscleonKane’sshoulderandtooksomediggingtolocateit.Onceitwasout,shedestroyeditbysmashingitwiththehammer,Wolfeprovided.AfewstitcheslaterandKaneheldupafingertohislips.Hehandedthe
“You’regoodtogo.”Wolfesmiledathim.“Tendaysforthestitchesandtrynottobustthemopen.YoucanshowerwiththatdressingbutIwanttoseeittomorrow.Thedevicewasdamagedduringremovalandmaycauseaproblem.”
“Rogerthat.”KaneturnedtoJenna.“I’llgoandcollectmythingsandgiveyousomeprivacy.”Heheadedforthedoor.
JennapulledherT-shirtoverherheadandturnedherbacktoWolfe.“Hedidn’tasmuchasflinch.Ouch!”Shecaughtherbreathasthelocalanestheticneedleslidintoherfleshfollowedbyacoldburst.“Thanksforthewarning.”
“Sorry,I’musedtoworkingonpeoplewhodon’tcomplain.”Wolfechuckled.“Butthentheydon’thavetheadvantageofalocal.”
Notamused,Jennaglaredathimoveroneshoulder.“That’sbecausethey’redead.”
“Thanksforlettingmeknow.”Wolfegrinned.“Standstill,thiswon’ttakelong.”
ThedoorslidopenandEmilystoodattheentrance,eyeswide.Jennalookedatherandsmiled.“Hi,Em.”
“What’sgoingon?”Emilylookedbackdownthepassage.“Davejustwalkedpastmewithouthisshirtandnowyou’rethesame?”
“It’sacoverupoperation.”Wolfewinkedathisdaughter.“Ouresteemedsheriffandherdeputytangledwithsomethornsthismorningandlost.It’sallgood.Goandpreparethebody,I’llbestartingtheautopsyassoonasI’mfinishedhere.”
“Thorns,huh?”Emilywrinkledhernoseandturnedaway.“Anythingyousay,Dad.”
Jennasighed.“It’shardtellingliestoprotectsomeone,isn’tit?”
“Notreally.”Wolfeslappedadressingonhershoulder.“It’sawayoflifeinourbusiness.”Hehandedheradishcontainingthesmalltracker.“Doyouwanttodothehonors?”Hefollowedhertothebenchandwaitedforhertopulverizethedevice.“I’llmicrowaveallthepiecesjusttobesure.”
Jennapulledonhershirtandwaitedforhim.SheledthewaytojoinKaneinthealcoveinthehallwayandpulledonscrubs,masks,andgloves.ShelookedatKane’sbleakexpression.“Yougood?”
“IwillbewhenIgetoverthefactsomeonehasbeenrecordingeverythingIsayanddoforthelastfewyears.”Kane’seyesflashedwithanger.“Ihadarighttoknow.Afteryearsofputtingmylifeonthelineforthem,it’sasoberingthoughttoknowtheydon’ttrustme.”
THIRTY-NINE
ThetensionseemedtoshimmeraroundKaneintheexaminationroom.Heneededabreak,andJennaknewjustthemantodoit.AsWolfepreparedthefilesonhispreliminaryexaminationofBeckyPowell,JennasentamessagetoTyCarter.
We’reattheautopsyoflatestvictim.IfigureKaneneedsacoupleofhoursdowntime.Canyouorganizesomethingforlater?
Afewsecondswentbybeforeherphonesignalledamessage.Jennastaredatthescreen.
Justusguys?Yes,I’llstayintownandcatchupwithJo.JoisstayingoveratLouantonight.Ifwe’rehavingaguys’nightout,Davecanbunkwithme.I’llcallhimlater.Leaveittome.
“Wasthatanythingimportant?”Kanemovedtoherside.
Jennadidn’tmeethiseyes.Hecouldreadalieinaninstant.“No,JoisheadingovertoLouanandstayingoverisall.”
“Areyouready?”Wolfepeeredoverhismaskatthem.“Good.WehaveBeckyPowell,sixteenyears,Caucasian,browneyes,andhair.Sheisaverageheightandweightforherageandingoodphysicalshape,exactdetailswillbelistedinmyreport.Herbodywasformallyidentifiedbyherparentsattenthismorning.PreliminaryX-rays,scans,andsamplesarereadyforexamination.”Hepointedtoanevidencebagonabench.“Iremovedtheblackgaffertapecoveringhermouthandfoundapairofmen’sbriefsstuffedinside.Ialsoremovedthetapebindingherwristsbehindherback.Bothhavebeenexamined.FromthetapeallthetraceIfoundwasfromBecky,sowhoeverwashandlingthetapeusedgloves.TheDNAfromthebriefsisn’tamatchforWyattCooperandBobbyKaloisrunningitthroughthedatabasesaswespeak.”
“Didyouconfirmthetimeofdeathassuggestedlastnight?”KanesteppedforwardtostareattheX-rays.
“Yes,fromthebodytemperature,stateofrigor,anddegreeofcongealinginthebloodfromtheheadwound,orlackofit,Istandbymyobservationsthatthisgirldiedwithinfifteenminutesofherdiscovery.”
“Theheadinjuriesontherightappeartobelessthanthoseontheleft.”Kanepointedtothescreen.“YetIcanonlyseeonesideofherheadwithanysignofinjury.Wouldthisindicateapunch?”
“ThisX-raybelongstoSandy.”Emilypointedtotheoneontheright.“Weneededcopiestocompareaswebelievetwopeopleareinvolved.”Sheraisedbotheyebrows.“Rememberthediscussiononthebloodspatterarcatthehouse?”
“Idoindeed.”Kane’seyescrinkledatthecorners.
Jennastaredattheimages.“Thiswouldindicateinjuryfromthesametypeofbluntinstrumentusedwithvariableforce.”
“Yes,andresultinginadifferentoutcome.”WolfepointedtospiderwebmarksonBeckyPowell’sX-rayofherskull.“Thatrepresentsmassiveheadtrauma.Askullfracturecausingdeath.Itwouldhavetakenconsiderableforcetoinflictthatamountofdamage.Bloodhasaccumulatedinsidethecranium,soshedidn’tdieinstantly.Iwouldestimatethekillerusedtwoblows,sonotthesametypeofuncontrolledfrenziedattackwesawinLaurieTurner’scase.”WolfemovedtoSandy’sX-ray.“Hereweseeaconcussion,causedbyasignificantblowtotheheadbutnotresultinginafracture.Manypeopleconsiderthataconcussionisnothingtoworryaboutbutit’satraumaticbraininjurythataffectsbrainfunctionandcanbedelayed.ThisiswhythedoctorsarekeepingSandyunderobservation.”
Slightlyconfused,JennastaredatthebodyofBeckyPowellandthemassivebruisinginherneckarea.“Shedidn’tdiefromstrangulation?”
“No.”Wolfeliftedthegirl’seyelids.“Shehasnoburstcapillariesinhereyesandherhyoidboneisintact.Fromthebruisesonherbody,thehip,knees,elbows,I’dsayshewasfightingback.Thestrangulationwasn’tworkingsotheyhither.”Heshrugged.“I’llopenherupandconfirmbutthedamagetoherneckissuperficialandwasn’tsustained.Shedoeshaveabruisemid-spine.Iwouldsayherkillerwastryingunsuccessfullytogainleverageusingtheirkneeperhapsandfailed.”
“Anysexualcontact?”Kanewasscanningthebody.“Ican’tseetheusualsignsofrape.”
“No.”WolfelookedatJenna.“Theredoesn’tseemtobeamotiveforthismurder.Apartfromthefactthatbothvictimsarecheerleaders,theMOisdifferentineachcase.Theonlylinkwehaveisstrangulation,wellattemptedinthiscase,andthemen’sunderwearinthemouth.Withoutthat,I’dfinditdifficulttobelievetheywereconnected.”
Jennathoughtforabeat.“Theyhaveanotherconnection;theybothgotaridewiththeirkiller.Becky’sSUVwasleftatthelibrary,itonlyhasherprintsonitandwefounditlocked,soitwasn’tanabduction.”SheglancedatKane.“Thegirlsknewtheirkillerandwentwillinglytotheirdeaths.NooneheardagirlscreamingforhelpoutsideRowley’soldhouseandit’saclose-knitcommunity.Shewalkedinthehouseunderherownsteam.Whatwouldtemptagirltoentersomeone’shouseatnight?”
“Oh,that’sprettyeasy.”Emilysnortedwithlaughter.“Asecretdatewithahunk,maybesomeoneonthetrackteam…anathleteofsomekind.Mostgirlsofthatagewouldwalkonhotcoalstobeseenoutwithahandsomejock.”
“Thatwouldmakesense.”KanelookedatWolfe.“TheforceusedtokillisdifferentfromwhatI’dexpectfromsay,twomen.There’dbeconsiderablebruisingfromrestraintsandit’smorelikelyrapewouldbeinvolved.”
“Myconclusionwouldbeonemale,onefemale,forthatreason.”Wolfepointedtothevictim’shead.“Fromtheangleofthebluntforcetraumaandthefactitisintwoareas.IwouldsayBeckywasonherkneesandthefemalewasstranglingherfrombehind.Beckywasfighting,sothefemalekillerwasunabletorestrainher,shelikelyorderedthemaletokillher.”
“Justdon’tforgetStanWilliams.”KanepeeredatJennaoverhismask.“Heseemstobeabletolurecheerleadersintohisapartmenttotakephotographs.TheFBIarewatchinghimbutdon’trulehimout.”
“Ican’tseehimbeingthekiller.”Wolfenarrowedhisgaze.“Thinkaboutit.IfheluredthegirlintoRowley’shouseandtriedtostrangleherbutshefoughtback,whatwouldusuallyhappen?”HelookedatKane.“Amanismorelikelytopunch,knockhersenseless,andthenstrangleher.”Heshrugged.“Inmyopinion,thisisclosetoapanickill.Thefirstonewentlikeclockwork,lookatthecomparison.”Hewenttothecomputerandimagesfilledthescreen.HepointedtoLaurieTurner’sneck.“Shewassecured,likelybyaseatbeltandattackedfrombehindinanupwardfastmotion.Thepressureonthecarotidarterywouldhavebeenenoughtomakeherblackoutintenseconds.Thenthekillerkeptthepressuregoingwithoutthevictimfighting.Thesecondisamess.Ifigureit’steenagers,mostlikelyinthesameagebracketasthevictims.”
“Thatwouldtieinwithourlistofsuspects.”JennaturnedasthedoorswhooshedopenandColtWebbercameintotheroomcarryinganiPad.
“Ihavesomeresults.”WebberhandedtheiPadtoWolfe.“ThetraceevidencewefoundonthebedheadisamatchforthespittlewefoundattheLaurieTurnermurdersceneandthebluefabricfoundonthestepsmatchesthepompomsofthehighschoolcheerleadingsquad.”
“Didbothsamplesidentifyasspittle?”Wolfestudiedtheresults.
“Nope.”Webberpointedtoaresultonthescreen.“Thesecondonewassweat.”
Jennaleanedagainstthecounter,runningthescenariothroughhermind.“Theyspreadbleachallovertheplasticcoveronthemattressandslippedupagain.Doyoufiguretheytriedtostrangleheronthebed?”
“Justhowlonghasitbeensinceyouwereallinhighschool?”Emilyshookherhead.“Weknowtwopeopleareinvolvedbytheextentoftheheadinjuriesandthebloodspatter.It’slikelyathrillkillorperhapsapaybackkill.”Shetookabreath.“Thesekidshavejustkilledagainandtheylikedit.WeknowfromthebloodspattertheykilledBeckyinthemiddleoftheroom,draggedherbodytothewall,andsatherup.They’reyoungwithhormonesraging.Theywantedhertowatchthemmakingout.”
“Likeavictorydance.”KanestaredatEmilyandshookhishead.“Arekidsreallythatirresponsible?”
“Somearebutmosttimesit’speerpressurepushingthemintodoingthingstheyknowisn’tright.”Emilysighed.“It’sallaboutthecliquesinschoolthesedays.”
Jennafoldedherarmsandsighed.“So,thispoorgirlthoughtshewasmeetingherdreamdateanditwasatrap.”Sheallowedthefacesofthekidsthey’dinterviewedtorunthroughhermind.Whichoneofthemwascapableofmurder?
FORTY
Mentallydrainedafterahardday,JennadroppedintoherchairattheofficeandwaitedforareportfromRio.Shewrappedherhandsaroundacupofcoffeeandtookinalltheadditionstothewhiteboard.ShehadupdatedWolfe’sautopsyresults.AsshewavedRiointoachair,Kanewalkedinbehindhimandsatdown.“Okay,Zac,whathaveyougotforme?”
“EveryoneonyourlistofpersonsofinterestwereintownwhenBeckyPowellwasmurdered.”Riowavedahandatthewhiteboard.“I’velistedeachoneandanyonewhorecallsseeingthematthefestival.Ihadtobreakitdownasbeforethefirstsetoffireworksandafterthelastset.Mainlybecausewitheverythinggoingonnobodycouldgivemeaspecifictime.Iconsideredthislogicalaseveryonewasoutenjoyingthefestival.”
Jennanodded.“Igatheredasmuch.Whataboutthelibrary?”
“IviewedtheCCTVfeedfromlastnightoutsidethelibrary.”RioofferedJennahisiPad.“YoucanseeBeckyarriving,sheparks,locksup,andgoesinside,usingthefrontentrance.Ifyoufastforward,you’llnoticemovementatthefiredooroutbackaboutfiveorsominutesafter.Anindistinguishablelight-coloredtruckdrivesout,nolightsandalthoughI’vemagnifiedtheframes,Iseeablurreddriverandnopassengers.”
“Howlongdidyouobservethefootage?”Jennascrolledthroughthefeed.“DidyouseeBeckyleave?”
“NopeandtheycloseattenonTuesdays.”Rioremovedhishatandstrokedtherim.“Shedidn’tleavethebuildingunlessshesnuckoutthefiredoorandkepttotheshadows.Thetruckwasparkedintheshadows,soifyougoback,it’simpossibletotellandthelightisoutinthestairwell,thetruck’sinteriorlightwasoutaswell.”
“Howconvenient.”KanesortedthroughthepileofstatementsthatRiohadcompiled.“Ifthisiskids,theythoughtofeverything.Problemiswecan’ttieitinwithasilverGMCtruckoraChryslersedan.Bothwereseenatthetimeofthemurders.”HeheldouthishandfortheiPadandscannedthescreen.“IfigurethatisaGMCtruck.”Herewoundandwatchedthefeedafewtimes.“SendittoBobbyKaloattheFBI.Hisnumberisonfile.Askhimtoenhanceit.Theproblemis,wehavetwomurdersandtwodifferentvehicles.Maybewecangetalistofeveryonewhowentintothelibrary.”
“Ialreadythoughtofaskingaboutthatandonlythreepeoplewereloanedbooksthatnight.”RiosmoothedhiscurlyhairandpushedonhisStetson.“Thelibrarianwascoyaboutgivingoutpersonaldetails,soIaskedifshecouldtellmethesexofthepeople.AllfemaleandthenIaskedifonewasBeckyPowell.”Hesmiled.“Beckywasthere,becauseIsawherarrivebutshedidn’tloanabookandifshemetaguyinthere,neitherdidhe.”
Jennanodded.“OkayandwhataboutMr.Law?Doeshehaveanalibiforlastnight?”
“Nope.”RiotooktheiPadfromKaneandscannedthroughthefiles.“HedrovefromcountytoBlackRockFallsandwasintownatthetimeofthemurder.IhavehimleavingAuntBetty’sCaféateight-forty-five.HesayshewenthometoBlackwater,hasnowitnessesandwasarrestedbyyouonhisreturn.”
“Again,hereisamanwhoattackswomen’sfaces.That’sabully,acoward.Strangulationisupcloseandpersonal.Hiswifewasaskedspecificallyifhe’devertriedtostrangleherandshedeniedit.Aleoparddoesn’tusuallychangehisspots.”Kanestoodandwenttothecountertopouracupofcoffee.“Ican’tseewhatmotivehe’dhavetokillacheerleaderandIreallycan’tseeeithergirlgettingwillinglyintohisvehicle.”Hisphonepingedamessageandhestaredatthescreen.Thenextmomenthisringtonefilledtheroom.HeglancedatthecallerIDandlookedatJenna.“It’spersonal,I’lltakeitoutside.”Hestoodandwentintothehallway.
JennaturnedherattentionbacktoRio.“Areyousureyouwanttomoveintothehouse?Haveyouhadsecondthoughts?”
“Nope.I’vespokentothetwinsandtheythinkit’scool.They’rehopingforaghost.I’mnotsosureaboutMrs.Jacobs,thehousekeeperI’veengaged.”Riomethereyeswithasteadygaze.“Ididwonderwhatsecuritywasneededandthecostofupdatingit.I’vespokentoJake.I’vebeencheckinginwithhimtomakesurehedoesn’tneedanything.Hesaidtheyoftenleftthefrontdoorkeyonthestoopabovethedoor.So,Ifigurethat’showthekillershavegotteninside.Thismakesthemlocalsandpeoplewhomovealongthatroadfrequentlytohavenoticedoneofthemtakingthekeyfromitshidingplace.”
Jennasighed.“Notoften,weleftitthereforthedeliverymanandforsomerepairmentogetinsideafterJakehadleft.Kidswalkpastthereonthewaytoschool.There’sabusstopacrosstheroad,anyonemighthaveseenthemaccessthekey.”Shechewedonherbottomlip.“Butwewillbeefupsecurity.Itdoesn’thaveanalarmsystemandIcanarrangetohaveitinstalled.Wolfewilllikelyclearthehouseasacrimesceneshortly.I’llhaveprofessionalcleanersgothroughandmakesureeverythingisgoodbeforeyoumovein.”Shestaredintothedistance.“RunitpastMrs.Jacobs,thehousekeeper,butshe’sverydowntoearthandnoonediedinherpartofthebuilding.”
“Okay.”Riosmiledather.“IsthereanythingelseIneedtodo,Sheriff?”
Impressedbyhisthoroughness,Jennashookherhead.“No.You’vecoveredeverythingI’veaskedfor.”Sheglancedatherwatch.“Itwasalatenightforallofus,sowhydon’tyouheadonhome?IhavetheBlackwaterdeputiespatrollingduringthefestivalandthere’snotmuchgoingonnowuntilSaturday.”
“BeforeIleave…”Riostood.“Jakesaidhe’llbebacktomorrow.Sandyisstayinganotherdayatleastandisdoingjustfine.”
Jennasmiled.“That’sgoodtoknow.I’llseeyouinthemorning.”
AsJennawasrefillinghercup,herphonechimed.ItwasWolfe.“Haveyoufoundanything?”
“Notspecifically,no,butIdohavesomethingofinterestregardingtheunknownDNAtracewefoundatthecrimescenes.”Wolfesoundedpleasedwithhimself.“I’veknownforsometimeofacompanywhichdevelopedaveryinvolvedprograminconjunctionwithfundingfromtheDepartmentofDefense.FromwhatI’veread,theSnapshotForensicDNAPhenotypingSystemaccuratelypredictswhatapersonlookslikeincludingeyecolor,haircolor,andskincolor.”
Fascinated,Jennasatdownatherdesk.“Howinvolvedisthisprocess?”
“Ittakestimeandiscomplicatedbutit’sworthatry.I’vesubmittedthesampletoapublicgenealogydatabaseandtheresultswillbeforwardedforSnapshot’sGeneticGenealogyanalysis.Withluck,we’llgetanimageofthefaceofthekiller.”
“Wow!”JennastaredatthedoorasKanewalkedin.“Canyougetarushonit?”
“I’llpullinafewfavorsandhopeforthebest.”Wolfeclearedhisthroat.“HasDavecooleddownsomeyet?”
Jennalaughed.“I’llletyouknowlater.”
“Okay,copythat.”Wolfedisconnected.
JennaupdatedKaneandstretched.“There’snothingmorewecandotonight.IthinkI’llgrabsometakeawayfromAuntBetty’sandheadonhome.”
“I’llcomehomeandtendthehorsesbutthenI’mgoingforasteakatAntlerswithCarter.He’sbookedatableforseven.”Kanesmiled.“Itseemshedoesn’tlikeeatingoutaloneandfiguredasJoisaway,wecouldhaveaguys’nightout.Playcards,talkaboutfishing,andrelaxforatime.”Helookedather.“Icoulddowithsomedowntime.Doyoumind?”
Shakingherhead,Jennasmiledathim.“That’sagreatidea.I’lldrivemycruiserhome.Idon’twanttobestuckoutattheranchwithouttransport.It’sliketemptingfate.”
“Uh-huh,leavingyououttherealoneistemptingfate.”Kaneregardedherwithoneeyebrowraised.“It’slikelyIwon’tbebackuntilmorning.I’llbunkwithCarter.HehastwobedroomsinhissuiteatTheCattleman’sHotel.”Heshookhishead.“ApparentlythehotelupgradedhimwhentheydiscoveredhewasFBI.”Hegrinned.“Areyousureyou’llbeokay?”
Jennasippedhercoffee.“Imanagedjustfineforthetwoyearsorsobeforeyouarrived.”
“So,you’llcallmeifanythinghappens?”Kane’sexpressionturnedserious
Jennashookherhead.“No,I’llcallRioorRowley,they’llbehometonight.Don’tworry,bothmenaremorethancapableofbackingmeupifneedsbe.Tywillbegoinghomesoon.Spendsometimewithhimwhileyouhavethechancetodoguystuff.Wespendallourdowntimetogetherandyouneedsomemalebonding.”Shelaughed.“I’llsetthealarmwhenyouleaveandkeepmyweaponhandy,plusI’llhaveDukeandPumpkintokeepmecompany.”
“Great.”Kanesmiled.“Areyoureadytogo?MaggiewillbehereuntilWaltersarrivestotakeover.”
“Yeah,I’lljustgrabmykeys.”Shestoodandcollectedherthings.Happyshe’dmadeKanesmileagainshehummedsometunesallthewaytohercruiser.
FORTY-ONE
Thursday
ThesunstreamingthroughacrackinthedrapeswokeJennaandshejumpedoutofbed,checkingtheclock.Shegaspedandpulledonclothes.Itwassix-thirtyandsheusuallywokeatfive.SherubbedPumpkin’sears.“I’llhavetostartsettingthealarm.”
Forgoinghermorningcoffee,shedashedoutthefrontdoorandrantothestables.Dukeboundeduptoherandthenranalongside,longearsflappinginthewind.ShestaredattheemptygarageoutsideKane’scottageandfrowned.She’dexpectedhimhomebynowbutnevermind,shecouldhandlethehorsesjustfine.Aftermovingthemtothecorral,shemuckedoutandemptiedthewheelbarrowbeforeheadingbacktothehouseforashower.Onethingwasforsure,shedidn’tneedaworkout.
Dressedandreadyforwork,shepushedbreadintothetoasterandpouredcoffee.TheperimeteralarmsoundedandsheheadedforthefrontdoorintimetoseeKaneemergingfromthetrees.Sheopenedthefrontdoorandgavehimawave.ThetruckstoppedinfrontofherporchandKaneslidout.Shesmiledathim.“Morning.”
“SorryI’mlate.Iwaswaylaid.”Kanestoppedatthebottomofthesteps.“I’llgoanddomychoresandgetreadyforwork.”
JennawalkeddownthestepsasDukerushedpastheranddidhishappydanceatseeingKane.“Noneed.I’vetendedthehorsesandI’mjustmakingbreakfast.”
“IalreadyatebutI’llneedtocleanup.”Herubbedhisbristledchinandstaredintothedistanceasifhedidn’twanttomeethergaze.
Stiflingtheamusementatseeinghimlostforwords,shechewedonherbottomlip.HemusthavehadanentertainingeveningoutwithCarter.Itwashardtomissthebrightredlipstickkissononeunshavencheekorsmellthestaleperfumewaftingfromhim.“Oh,yes,soIsee.”Sheturnedandwalkedbackupthesteps.“You’llneedtofeedDuke.I’malloutofhisfood.”
“I’lldropsomebybeforeweleave.”KaneremovedhisStetsonandranhisfingersthroughhishair.“I’llseeyoulater.”HehoistedDukeintothetruckandfollowedhim.
AsKanewasnotaone-nightstandtypeofguy,thelipstickandperfumedidn’tworryheratall.Although,he’dchangedinmanywaysinthelastsixmonths;afterfinallylayingtheghostofhisdeadwifetorest,they’dbecomeinseparable.Shesighed.TyCarterwasaman’sman,aconfirmedbachelor,whowasenjoyinglifetothefull,soitwouldn’tsurpriseherintheleasttoimaginewomenhadtakensomepartinhisideaofaguys’nightout.
Beforeshehadtimetofinishhertoast,thephonechimed.Itwasthe911line.“SheriffAlton,whatisyouremergency?”
“Ma’am,there’sabodysittingupagainstadumpster,outsidethehomesuppliesdepotonMain.”
Jennagrabbedapenandnotepadfromthecounter.“I’llneedyourdetails.Don’ttouchthebodyandkeeppeopleaway.”
“Idriveagarbagetruck,ma’am.IanMorrison.I’veblockedthealleywayandI’llwaitinmytruckuntilyouarrive.”
Abandoninghertoastandcoffee,Jennaheadedforthefrontdoor.TherewasnotimetowaitforKaneandhewouldn’thearhisphoneintheshower.Aftersettingthealarm,shedashedtohercruiser.“I’monmyway.”Shedisconnected.
Turningonlightsandsirens,sheusedtheBluetoothphoneconnectioninhervehicletocontactRowleyandafterhe’dassuredherSandywasfine,she’dcalledWolfe,givingthemthesameinformation.Theywouldlikelyarrivebeforeherandsecurethecrimescene.Sheacceleratedontothehighwayandarushofexcitementtingledthroughherassheharnessedthespeedofhervehicle.Beingapassengerforsolong,she’dmissedthethrillofdashingtoacrimesceneandintotheunknownalone.Thehighwayintotowncarriedthenormalflowoftrafficbutintownpeoplehadarrivedearlytosetupforanotherdayofthefestival,whichwouldculminateonSaturdaywiththecrowningofthefallqueenandtheusualdanceattheshowgrounds.
Withthewideblueskyandsunshine,itshouldhavebeenabeautifuldaybutsomeonehadspoileditwithmurder.AsshecrawleddownMain,shecouldn’tmissthegarbagetruckandparkedbehindit.Acrosstheroad,Rowley’sSUVwasslidingintothecurbandWolfe’swhitevanhadparkedonthesidewalk.ShemadeherwayaroundthevanandlookedatWolfe.“Whathavewegot?”
“I’mnotreallysure.”Wolfemovedtooneside.“Takealook.”
Jennastaredatthewoman,recognizingheratonce.Sheswallowedhard.Hadshesteppedintoanightmare?ThedeadeyesstaringatherbelongedtoLaurieTurner’smother.Shewassittingagainstthedumpster,naked,withapompominonehand.
FORTY-TWO
KanehadheardJenna’scruisertearoutthefrontgate.Hecheckedhisphoneandshrugged.Nomissedcallsandnomessages.HelookedatDuke.“What’sstuckinhercraw?”
Thedogwhinedandcrawledintohisbasket.Kanesmiledathim.“Itlookslikeit’sjustyouandmetoday.”
Hemadehiswayintothebathroom,dumpedhisclothesinthelaundrybasket,andsighed.He’davoidedgettingtooclosetoJennaforgoodreason—hesmelledlikeaperfumestore.Lastevening,Carterhaddecidedtoentertaineveryeligiblewomanintownandthey’dspentagooddealoftheirtimeatAntlerslisteningtotheband.Nottobeunsociable,he’ddancedwiththefriendofthewomanCarterhadtakenashineto,buthaddrawnthelineatextendingthepartyovernight.He’dspentthenightinthesparebedroominCarter’ssuitebutafterbreakfast,he’dhadbeenobligedtogiveCarter’sfriendaridehomeasJohadtakentherentalcar.
CarterbeingCarterhadslappedhimontheback,collectedhisfishinggear,andlefthimwiththewomanbeforeclimbingintoAtohiBlackhawk’struckforadayontheriver.Kanetookouthisshaverandstaredintothebathroommirror.Hetouchedthebrightredkissonhischeekandcringed.Carter’sfriendhadleanedoverandpeckedhimonthecheekwhenhe’dgivenheraridehome.“Darn,JennamusthavethoughtIwasdoingthewalkofshamecominghomelikethis.”
Tenminuteslater,hesetoutfortheoffice.WhenhehitMain,heslowedatthesightofJennaandRowley’scruisersandpulledtothecurb.CrimescenetapestretchedacrossthealleywayandRowleywasstandingtooneside,whileJennaobservedWolfeandhisteamworkonthebodyofawoman.HewenttoRowley’sside.“Didyoucallthisin?”
“Nope.”Rowleygavehimapuzzledstare.“Thesheriffcalledme.Shereceiveda911callandcalledmeandWolfe.”Heshuffledhisfeet.“Howcomeshedidn’tcallyou?”
“SheleftinahurryjustafterIarrivedhome.”Kaneshrugged.“IhadanightoutwithCarterandsleptoveratTheCattleman’sHotel.”HegaveRowleyadirectstare.“JennafiguredIneededanightouttodosomemalebonding,thatI’vebeenspendingtoomuchtimewithher.”
“Uh-huh.”Rowleygrinned.“Asawomansurroundedbymenfolkatwork,itshould’vebeentheotherwayaroundbutthenshedoesspendtimewithSandyandEmily,Iguess.”
Kanelaughed.“Don’tforgetMaggie,althoughshe’snotagirls’nightoutkind.”
“Girls’nightout?”JennalookedatKanecuriously.“There’sawomanlyingmurderedoverthereandyou’rechattingabouthavingagirls’nightout.”
“Me?”Kaneshookhishead.“No,ma’am.Thecompleteopposite.”
“Okay.”Jennastaredathernotebook.“Kane,Iwantyoutochecktheapartmentoverthestore,andRowleytalktothebystandersandcanvastheimmediatearea.Findoutifanyonesaworheardanythinglastnightbetweensevenandmidnight.I’llcallRiotocomeandassist.IwantsomeonehereuntilWolfehasremovedthebody,sodelegate.ContactWaltersifyouneedanextrahand.Whenyou’redonehere,I’llgowithKanetoseeDr.Turnerandinformhimabouthiswife.”ShelookedatKane.“Didyouremembertoleavethedogfoodbeforeyouleftthismorning?”
Kanenarrowedhisgaze.“Yeah,ofcourseIdid.Ileftabagonyourporch.”
“Fine.I’llseeyoubackattheoffice.”Shewalkedawaypullingoutherphone.
“Jenna.”Kanehurriedafterherandmetherstrideforstride.Peoplehadstartedtogatheraroundthealleywaytoseewhatwashappening.Hewavedthemaway.“Nothingtoseeherefolks,movealongnow.”
“Didn’tyouunderstandyourorders?”Jennapulledopenthedoorofhercruiserandslippedbehindthewheelandstaredathim.
“Iunderstandthemjustfinebutwouldliketoknowwhyyou’reactingsohostilethismorning?”Kaneremovedhishatandscratchedhishead.Hishairwasstilldampfromtheshower.“Whydidn’tyoucallmeaboutthemurder?Iamthedeputysheriff.”
“Dave,you’djustgottenhome.”Jennawrinkledhernose.“Youkindastunkprettybadandhadlipstickonyourcheek,soIfiguredyou’dneedtimetogetcleanedup.I’mnotbeinghostile,Ididthechoresandleftwithoutasmuchasonesipofcoffee.I’mnotneededonsceneatthemoment,soI’mdelegatingresponsibility.Now,I’mgoingtohavebreakfastatAuntBetty’s.”Sheshutthedoorandbuzzeddownherwindow.“Youknowdarnwell,ifIdon’tgetmycoffeeinthemornings,I’mlikeabearwithasorehead.Gowiththeflow,Dave.I’mnotthefairyprincesseveryday—somedaysI’mthewickedwitchandifwe’regoingtomakethisthingbetweenuswork,you’regonnahavetolivewithit.”
Hecaughttheannoyanceinhereyesandswallowedthelaughbubblinguphisthroat.“Sure,I’mdownwiththat.”
“Good.”Jennaeasedoutintothetraffic.
Kanestaredafterher.Helikedthewayshespokehermindtohim.Ithadbecomealmostatraditionbetweenthem.Nolies,justhonestyevenifitstungabit.Heunderstoodthemoodswings.Jennahadasoftside,butonthejob,sherarelyletdownherguard.Withamaleteamtocommand,shehadnootherchoice.Nomatterhowclosetheybecame,shewouldremainaloofatwork.ThatwasJennaandherespectedherforit.Heturnedandheadedbacktothecrimescene.
Observationwasamassivepartofdetectivework,comparingandmentallyloggingpiecesofinformation,somesoremotetheydon’tseemtomatteratthetime.Heavoidedthebodyandscannedthearea,movingalongthealleywaykeepingasclosetothewallaspossible.Henoticedadistinctdragmarkandbenttoexaminetheturned-updirt.Themurderhadn’toccurredhere,thebodyhadbeendraggedfromsomewhereelse.HemovedforwardusinghisMaglitetopeerintodarkrecessesandturnedthecornerintothesmallcourtyardthatledtothefootofaflightofstairs.Pullingongloves,hemovedupthesteps,checkingeachoneforevidence.Theoldwoodenstairscreakedandgroanedlikemostbehindtheoldstoresintown.Theapartmentsabovethestoreswereusuallyrentedforextraincome,thestores’ownerspreferringalargerhome.Hereachedthetopandfoundthedoorajarandknocked.“Sheriff’sdepartment.”
Hecalledoutseveraltimesbeforepushingthedoorwide,callingoutagainandsteppinginsidewithcaution.Thedoorledtoanopenplankitchenandfamilyroom.Signsofastrugglewereevident,chairstippedover,potsandpansstrewnaroundtheroomasifsomeonehadtriedtousethemasweapons.HepulledhisGlockandcheckedthebedroomandbathroom.Theplacewasemptybutlongstrandsofhairblewacrossthefloorfromthebreezecomingthroughthedoor.Thebedwasindisarray,sheetstrailedtowardthedoor,andclotheslayscatteredandtornonthethreadbarerug.Heholsteredhisweaponandwentbacktothefamilyroomandstaredatthephotographsonthemanteloverthefireplace.HerecognizedLaurieTurnerandthewomanwithherwasthecorpseinthealleyway.Itdidn’ttakehimlongtofindMrs.Turner’spurseonakitchencounter.TheIDinthenameofJeanetteTurnerconfirmedhissuspicions.
HemovedbackdownthestairsandwenttoWolfe.“Shelivedupstairs.Thedoorisopenandtherearesignsofastruggleinthebedroom.Ifounddragmarksinthealleyway.”
“I’massumingshewasstrangled.”WolfewasdirectingEmilyandWebbertobagthewoman’shandsandgetherintoabodybag.“Thecontusionsandscrapesappeartobepost-mortem,it’sdifferenttothecheerleaders’murdersbutsuspiciouslythesame,asifsomeonehadinsideinformation.I’llknowmorelater.You’llneedtocontactherhusbandtocomebytoIDthebody.Idon’twanttowaittoolongbeforeIdothepostonthisone.”HeturnedtoEmily.“Theapartmentupstairsisthelikelymurderscene.We’llgetherintothevanandthendoasweepupstairs.KanehasbeeninsidebutIwantyouincoverallsandbooties.I’mnotplanningonmissinganyevidence.”HeturnedbacktoKane.“I’llsendWebberbackwiththebodybutI’llneedtwohoursatleasttoprocessthescenehereandupstairs.HaveMr.Turnershowaroundnoon.”Hesighed.“Autopsyattwoasusual.”Hemovedcloser.“I’llcheckthedressingsonyourbackssoarrivealittleearly.”
Kanenodded.“Sure.”HenoticedRiohadarrived.“I’llgospeaktotheneighborsandseeifanyoneheardanything.StanWilliamslivesrightnextdooroverthegeneralstore.Funnythat,huh?”
“Maybeyourhunchabouthimisright.”Wolfebenttoheaveoneendofthebodybagontothegurney.“I’llseeyouattwo.”Heheadedforhisvan.
KanewalkeduptoRio.“Rowleyisaroundsomewheretalkingtothelocals.Comewithmeandwe’llseeifStanWilliamsishome.”
“Notatthistimeofday.”Rioglancedathiswatch.“He’llbedrivingtheschoolbus.I’dsayhe’llbebackafterten.”
KaneturnedatthesoundoffootstepstoseeJakeRowleyhurryingtowardthem.
“Ihavesomething.”Rowleycametohisside.“Oneoftheonlookers,DanStaple,saidhewaswalkingbacktohisvehiclefromAuntBetty’sCaféwhenheheardanargumentlastnightaroundeight-thirty.Hedidn’tthinkmuchofituntilhesawtheME’svanthismorning.Iaskedhimifhenoticedanyvehiclesparkedclosebyandherecalledseeinganold-styleredFordpickup.Itcaughthiseyebecauseitwassounusual.IshowedhimaphotoofLaurieTurner’spickupandheidentifieditasthesamecolorandmodel.”Hewavedhisstatementbook.“Ihavehisstatementanddetails.I’vealsospokentostoreownersbutmosthadclosedforthenight.Thepeoplearen’tathomefromtheapartmentsoverthestoreseachside.So,apartfromthevehiclewe’vegotnothing.”
“Interesting.TheFordcouldbevitalevidence.”Kanerubbedhischin.“Therewouldn’tbeanyother1950redFordpickupsintownfittingthatdescription.IthastobeLaurieTurner’sandwefindhermomdeadcloseby.I’llgocheckitout.Thesheriffwillwantamediastatementreleasedassoonaspossible.Zac,that’syourdepartment.Youknowthedrill,nospecifics,justaskingforanyoneinthevicinitybetweenthehoursofsevenandten.Jake,I’llleaveyoutoopenacasefile.”Helookedfromonetotheother.“Haveyoueaten?”
Whentheybothnodded,heorderedthembacktotheoffice.“I’llgoandspeaktoJenna.She’sstoppedbyAuntBetty’sforbreakfast.”
Hewalkedbacktohistruck,hismindrunningpossiblescenariosonthecase.WasDr.BobTurnerinvolved?Itseemedtooobviousforamanofintelligencetogotomurderhiswifedrivingadistinctivevehicle.Orwashetryingamovetopsychethemout?Hesmiledtohimself.Ifthiswashisplan,hehadnoideawhohewasdealingwith.
FORTY-THREE
Overbreakfast,Jennaperusedherfiles.Thetieinwiththecheerleaders’murderswasobviousbutwhywouldteenagers,themostprobablekillers,turnonawomaninherforties?Wherewasthemotiveandhowdidtheylureherintothealleyway?Sheglancedupwhenthechairscrapedbesideher.Withoutsayingaword,Kaneplacedapotofcoffeeandacuponthetableandthensatdown.Sheclosedherfilesandlookedathim.“It’sbusyinhere.Ifyou’rehungry,Isuggestgrabbingasliceofpie.”
“ThecerealIhadthismorningandtheweakcoffeedidn’tcomeclosetoeatingtoastandeggswithyou.”Kanecheckedhiswatch.“Maggiewillhavejustopenedtheoffice.Thedeputiesarehardatwork.Dr.Turnerwillbeintransitonhiswaytowork,sowe’llgoseehimattheschool.StanWilliamsisdrivingtheschoolbussowehavetimetospare.Iordered,pancakes,bacon,andmaplesyrup.”Hesubconsciouslyrubbedhisstomach.“Susiesaidshe’dhavethemreadyinnotime.”Hepouredcoffeeandaddedcreamandsugar.“Haveyouputthewitchbackinhercage?”
Laughing,Jennamethisraisedeyebrowandseriousstare.“Aftertwocupsofcoffee,yeahIthinkshe’sundercontrol.”
“Good.”Kanesighed.“Ineedtodiscussthelatestcasewithyou.”
Jennaheldupahand.“Beforeyougivemetherundown,I’vebeengoingovermynotesandwitheverythinghappeningsofast,westillhaven’thunteddownWyattCooperandspokentohimaboutfindinghisDNAonthebriefsfoundinLaurie’smouth.”Sheranherfingerthroughasprinkleofsugaronthetableandfrowned.“Hewasmissingaftertheparadetoo.Isthisacoincidenceorisheinvolvedinbothmurders?”
“Hmm,Ifigureweneedtocallhisfatherandaskhimtobringhimdowntotheofficeforquestioning.”Kaneremovedhishatandplaceditontheseatbesidehim.“Ashe’sunderage,anythinghesaystouswithouthisparents’permissionmightbeastumblingblockintheprosecution.”
“Okay,I’llcallMr.CooperwhenIgetbacktotheoffice.”Jennaleanedbackinherchair.“Nowwhathaveyougotforme?”
AfterKanebroughtheruptodate,Jennastaredintospaceandtriedtoprocessalltheinformation.“Wolfewilldoacompleteforensicssweepoftheapartmentbutifit’sthekidsagain,theyknowtoomuchabouttraceevidencetoleaveanythingbehind.I’vebeenconsideringifMrs.Turner’smurderisacopycat.Itdoesn’tfeellikethesamekillerorkillers.”ShewaitedforSuzietodeliverKane’smealandmorecoffee.Onceshehadmovedoutofearshot,sheopenedherphonetoscanherfilesagain.“Ontheotherhand,weknowthekillersaresmartandhavebeentryingtothrowsuspiciononotherpeoplebyusingthebriefs.Whatiftheycouldn’tstealanotherpairofbriefs?”
“They’dfindsomethingelsetousetoshifttheblame.”Kaneateslowly.
Jennaleanedforward.“WhatifthekidsgotaccesstoLaurie’spickup?Weknowsomeonedisabledhertruck,sotheyhaveknowledgeofthevehicle.Byparkingitandcommittinganothermurderthey’repointingthefingeratDr.Turner.”Sheshrugged.“Justhoweasyisittohotwireoneofthem?”
“VeryeasyandIcouldprobablystartonewithascrewdriverbutwe’dhavetoexaminethevehicletoseeifit’sbeentamperedwith.”Kanefrowned.“Idoubtwe’dgetasearchwarrantonasightingofavehicleparkedinthevicinitylateatnight.It’snotenoughprobablecause.”
“WemightgetpermissionfromDr.Turnertolookatthevehicle.”Jennasippedhercoffee.“I’llgoandspeaktothepeopleMrs.Turnerworkedwithinthebeautyparlor.TheymightknowifshehadanyenemiesorthreatsbutIdoubtit.Seemstome,theonlyproblemshehadwasherhusband.Whatifhe’sinvolved?”Sherubbedhertemples,thinking,andlookedatKane.“Although,hishostilitytowardhiswife,andthevehicleonscenemakeshisinvolvementtooobvious,almoststaged.”Shesighed.“Andhowcouldhepossiblyknowdetailsofthecheerleadermurders?We’veplayedourcardsclosetothevest.Thecausesofdeathhaven’tbeendivulgedtoanyoneandwedidn’ttellhimthedetailsofwhathappenedtohisdaughter.ItseemsverystrangethatMrs.Turnerwasstrangled,nakedandhadapompomwithher.Itdoespointthefingertothesamepeoplewhomurderedthecheerleaders.”
“UnlessDr.Turnerbelieveswe’repushovers.”Kanenibbledonastripofcrispybacon.“Rememberhe’sashrink.Ifhedidkillhiswife,makinghisinvolvementappearobviousmightbeaploy.Iwouldn’trulehimoutjustyet.”Heshrugged.“MybetwouldbethattheredFordpickupwillbereportedstolensometimesoon.”
Jennanodded.“Yeah,ifheisthekillerthat’stheusualmovebutastolenvehiclereportwouldhavehadtobefiledlastnightformetobelieveit.”Shesnorted.“Imeanthepickupisabithardtomiss,he’dnoticeforsureifitwentmissingfromhisdriveway.”Shemethisgaze.“I’dloveyoutointerviewhimwithJo.Betweenthetwoofyou,wemightfindoutifhe’sinvolved.Butfirstwe’llinformhimabouthiswife’smurderandarrangetheID.”
“We’llhavetotryandpersuadehimtogiveushisfingerprints.”Kanefinishedhismealandreachedforhiscoffee.“I’llfindaway.”Heplacedhiscupbackinthesaucerandsighed.“I’mdonehere.”Hepulledouthiswalletanddroppedbillsonthetable.“Mytreat.”
Jennacollectedherthingsandstood.“Thanks.”Sheledthewayoutthedoor,givingSusieHartwigawaveofthanks.
AfterdroppinghercruiserandDukeattheoffice,sheclimbedintotheBeastandtheyheadedtothehighschool.Afterspeakingtothewomanonthefrontcounter,andwaitingforhertocallDr.Turner,theyheadeddownalongpassagewaytohisoffice.ThedoorwasopenandDr.Turnerdidn’tstandtogreetthem,juststaredatthemfromacrosshisdesk.Jennacouldn’timaginethismanwascapableofcounselingstudents,hisattitudewashostileandunapproachable.Sheremovedherhatandwaitedabeattocomposeherwords.Itwasbettertocomestraighttothepointwithoutofferinganyreason.“I’msorrytoinformyouthatyourwifeisdead.”
“Jeanetteisdead?”Turnerleanedbackinhischairandtoweredhisfingersasifshe’djusttoldhimitwasrainingoutside.“Overdose?”
Jennashookherhead.“Wedon’thavethecauseofdeath.Wouldyoubewillingtocomebyandidentifyheraroundnoontodayatthemedicalexaminer’soffice?”
“IfIhavetobutyoudohaveLaurie’sDNAtouseasacomparison.Youdon’treallyneedme,doyou?”Turnerlookedasifhe’djustscoredapoint.“Imeanyoudidn’tneedmetoidentifyLaurie,didyou?”
“I’msorryforyourloss.”Kanetookoutanotebook,openedittoanewpage,andhandedittoTurner.“WouldyoumindlistingJeanette’snext-of-kin?Doyouknowifshehadlifeinsurance?Ifso,canyougivemethecompanynameaswell?”
“I’mhernext-of-kinandI’llhavetocheckmydocumentsforthenameandaddressofthecompany.IkeptupthepaymentsforLaurie’ssake.”Turnersplayedhisfingersonthenotebooktokeepthepagesopenandhiseyesflickeredwithannoyance.“I’llhavetheinformationbynoon.”HeclosedthenotebookandhandeditbacktoKane.“Nowpleaseleave,IhavestudentstospeaktoandIdon’twantthemtoseeyou.They’llthinkI’mbreakingourconfidentiality.”
Jennanodded.“Sure.Doyouwantustocallanyonetogowithyoutotheviewing,aclergymanperhaps?”
“No!”Turnerwavedthemaway.“Nowwillyoupleaseleave?”
Stunnedbyhisreaction,JennaturnedtoleavebutKaneblockedthedoor.
“Beforewego…”Kanenarrowedhisgazeatthedoctor.“IsLaurie’sredFordpickupathome?”
“No,myredFordpickupisparkedrightoutsideinthestaffparkinglot.”Turnerraisedbotheyebrows.“Why?”
Jennapulledoutherstatementbookandstartedtowriteasfastaspossible.SheglancedupatTurner.“Doyoumindifwetakealookatit?There’salooseendwe’dliketotieup.”
“TheMEsaidhe’dclearedthevehicleandreleasedit?Whatnow?”Turnerpulledakeyfromhispocketandtosseditacrossthetable.“You’renottakingitagain,areyou?”
“No,notthistime.”Jennahandedhimherstatementbook.“Ifyoucouldsignhere.I’llneedyourpermissiontosearchthevehicle.”
ToJenna’ssurprise,hesignedandhandeditback.Shecollectedthekeyusingthetipsofherfingernailsandsmiled.“We’llhavethisbacktoyouinafewminutes.”
“Leaveitatthefrontcounter.”Turnerwavedthemaway.“Ihaveworktodo.”
“Justonemorething,wehavetoask,I’msureyouunderstand?”Kanehadadoptedaconcernedexpression.“Wherewereyoubetweensevenandsaytenlastnight?”
“Athome.Ihadaprivatecounselingsession.”Turner’seyesburnedwithindignation.
“Okay,thankyou.”JennaledthewayoutsideanddroppedthekeyontothehoodofKane’struck.Shepulledonglovesandopenedthestatementbook.“Pleasetellmewehaveafewgoodsetsofprints.”
“Afullhandonmynotebook.”Kaneglovedupandtookthelaserfingerprintscannerfromhispocketandranitoverthestatementbook.“Ohyeah,wehavesomegreatprints.Bagthestatementbookasevidence.”Heranthescanneroverthekeyandhisnotebook.“Yeahwehaveplentytouseascomparison.”Hepulledoutanevidencebaganddroppedthebooksinside.“Ialwayskeepasparenotebookinmypocketjustincaseweneedtogatherprints.ThisisthefirsttimeI’vehitpaydirt.”
Jennaturnedaroundandscannedthestaffparkinglot.“IcanseeLaurie’spickup.So,itwasn’tstolenlastnightafterall.”
Theyhustledtothe1950redFordpickupandJennastoodbywhileKaneexaminedthevehicle,usingthescannertocaptureanyfingerprints,ontheinside,steeringwheel,doors,andseats.Helockedthedoorandtheywentbacktodropthekeyatthecounter.AstheywalkedbacktotheBeast,shelookedathim.“Youhaven’tsaidmuch.Didyoufindanything?”
“Fingerprintsbutnotampering.”Kaneremovedhisglovesandtossedthemintothetrash.“Whoeverdrovethatvehiclelastnightusedthekey.”Heraisedbotharmsintheairanddroppedthem.“Unlessbysomemiraclewehaveanotheridenticalpickupintown,thatwasthesamevehicleourwitnessspottedoutsideMrs.Turner’sapartment.”
FORTY-FOUR
OnceinsidetheBeast,KaneuploadedtheprintstothefilesandsentcopiestoWolfe,whileJennaupdatedherfiles.Theyhadtimetospare,theforensicsteamwouldn’tbefinishedprocessingthecrimesceneyetanditwastooearlytodropbytospeaktoStanWilliams.HelivedrightnextdoortoJeanetteTurnerandiftherehadbeenanargument,therewasagoodchancehe’doverheardsomething.Ifnot,Kanewantedtoknowifhehadanalibiforlastnight.HisgutwastellinghimnottotrustWilliamsbuttheywouldneedtotreadcarefullyasthey’dbesteppingontheFBI’stoesifthey’dalreadystartedtheirinvestigationintohispenchantforcheerleaders.Thefilesupdatedandevidencestowedaway,heturnedthetruckaroundandheadedbacktoStanton.Hestaredoutattheforestandslowedthetrucktoadmiretheviewspreadingouttothemountainsonesideandacrosstheprairieontheother.“Justlookatthat,itneverceasestoamazeme.”
“It’sabeautifulplaceallyeararoundbutinfallthecolorsareincredibleandtheskygoesonforever.”Jennabuzzeddownherwindowandinhaled.“ThenameBigSkyCountryistrue.Heretheviewsareendless.It’saspecialplaceandalmosttimelessinparts.It’snowonderAtohiworkssohardtopreservetheforests,hewantseveryonetoknowhowprecioustheyare.”
Kanepressedhislipstogether,recallingthelasttimehe’dseenAtohi.“IhopeCarterdoesn’tcorrupthim.They’reoutfishingagaintoday.”
“CorruptAtohi?”Jennaburstoutlaughing.“He’sprettysetinhisways.Iwouldn’tworry.”Shepokedhisarmwithherfinger.“Didhetrywithyou,lastnight?”
“Hetried.”Kaneturnedandsmiledather.“ButI’mprettysetinmywaystoo.Ishould’vedrivenhome.Ihadn’tbeendrinkingbutyouknowTy.HehadinvitedthesewomentohisroomfordrinksandIhadthetransport.”Heshrugged.“ImadeitclearIwasn’tinterestedandtheoneTyhadassignedtomedecidedtotakeacabhome.Inthemorning,AtohishowedandTyjustwalkedoutandleftmewithhiswoman.”
“So,youbeingyou,gaveheraridehomeandshekissedyouonthecheek?”Jennasqueezedhisarm.“I’veknownyouforalongtime,Dave.Aplayeryou’renot.”Sheglancedatherwatch.“AsmuchasI’dlovetosithereadmiringthescenery,weneedtotalktoWilliamsandcatchWolfebeforeheleavesthecrimescene,I’dliketofindoutwhatprogresshe’smade.”
Kanesmiledather.“Copythat.”Heheadedhome.“Justdon’tforgetWilliamsbelievesI’mafriend.Wedon’twanthimtoknowhe’sunderFBIsurveillance.”
“Imightbethewickedwitchsomedays,Dave,butmymemoryisjustfine.”Jennalaughed.
TheyfoundStanWilliamsathome.HiseyeswidenedatthementionofamurdernextdoorandKanestoodbacktoallowJennatotakethelead.
“Mr.Williams,didn’tyounoticethesheriff’svehicleswhenyouleftthismorningforwork?”Jenna’sdeterminedexpressionhadobviouslyunnervedhimandsheplayedonthefact.“Whattimedidyouleave?”
“Ileftalittleaftersix.”Williamsleanedagainstthedoorframeandfoldedhisarmsacrosshischest.“Asyoucansee,Iparkmytruckinthecourtyard,Idroveoutthealleywayanddidn’tseeanyoneatall.Afewvehiclesdroveby,Idon’trecallanyoneoftheminparticular.”
KaneexchangedameaningfullookwithJenna.WilliamswouldhaveleftbeforeJennahadreceivedthecallfromthedriverofthegarbagetruck.Hetookouthisnotebookandmadeafewnotes,tryingtolookasdisinterestedaspossible.HewantedWilliamstobelievehewasafriendandsomeonewhoenjoyedthesameinterestsortheFBIinvestigationwouldbeoverbeforeitstarted.HewaitedforJennatocontinuethequestioningandwhenWilliamsglancedathim,herolledhiseyes.
“Didyouhearanythinglastnight?”Jennastoodherground.“Anyonearguing,afightoranythingunusualfromnextdoor?”
“Notifitwasbetweeneightandten,noIwouldn’thearanything.”Williamsshruggedandturnedtolookinsidehisapartment.“IspentlasteveninggoingthroughtheshotsI’vebeentakingandmakingcopiesformyclients.Ihavemyearbudsinandlistentomusic.Ithelpsmetoconcentrate.Iwouldn’thaveheardabombexploding.”HelookedfromJennatoKane.“I’msorryIcouldn’thelpyou,Sheriff.IwishIcould,truly.”
“Okay,thankyouforyourtime.”Jennaturnedtomovedownthestairs.
“Nicetoseeyouagain,Dave.”Williamsgrinned.“I’llbeintouch.”
Kaneforcedasmile.“Thanks.”Heheadeddownthesteps.
ThegarbagetruckhadleftbutWolfe’svanhadreturnedtoblockthealleywayandoldDeputyWalterswassittinginhiscruiseroutfront.Kanegavehimawaveandwentuptohiswindow.“Needanything?”
“Nope,I’mjustfine.Wolfesayshewon’tbemorethanafewmoreminutesandIcangetbacktowatchingTV.”Walterssmiled.“Ialwaysappreciatethework,Dave.”
Kanenodded.“Wecouldn’tmanagewithoutyou.”HeheadedafterJenna.
Asheturnedintothealleyway,WolfewascomingdownthestairsleadingtoJeanetteTurner’sapartment.HewasinadeephushedconversationwithJenna.Hemovedtotheirsideandtheywentintoahuddle.“Whatdidyoufind?”
“Whatyoudescribed.”Wolfelookedathim.“There’sbeenacrudeattempttocoverupfingerprintsbutwefoundavarietyofsetsintheusualplacespeoplemissandonesetareamatchwithDr.BobTurner.”
“That’sinteresting,consideringheclaimedinhisstatementthathedidn’tknowwherehiswifewasliving.”Jennafrowned.“So,wehavetoassumethefirsttimehecameherewaslastnightandasabonus,histruckwasseenoutside.Wehavehimdeadtorights.”
“Holdyourhorses.”Wolfelookedfromonetotheother.“Justtoaddalittletwisttotheinvestigation.IfoundmorethanonematchforWyattCooperaswell.”
Astounded,KaneturnedtoJenna.“Ifigureyou’dbettercallMr.Coopernow.I’dreallyliketoknowwhatWyattwasdoinginJeanetteTurner’sapartment.”
“Yeah,metoo.”Jennapulledoutherphoneandmadethecall.Shedisconnectedwithanod.“Hecandropbyatnoon.He’llgoandcollectWyattfromschoolandcomeseeusinhisbreak.”
“I’llneedtolocktheapartmentdownandkeepitasacrimescene.There’smoreworktodoherenow.”Wolfefrowned.“We’vecompletedathoroughforensicssweepbutI’llneedtorevisitaftertheautopsy.IwanttodiscoverthetimelineofthemurderandIcan’tdothatproperlyuntilI’veexaminedtheinjuriestothevictim.”Hesmiled.“Riofilmedinsideandnowthatwehave3Dimagingsoftware,we’llbeabletoseethescenefromallanglesinthelabaswell.Havingamediaexpertontheteamisabonus,sofarhisworkhasbeenexemplary.”
“Heisagoodfit.”Jenna’slipsflattenedintoathinline.“Although,I’msurroundedbyexperts,yetwehavethreemurdersandtheevidenceisatangledmess.Nothingseemstofit.Therearesomanymissingpiecesinthetimelines,andalthoughmyguttellsmeit’stwokillersinonecase,theevidencetodateintheothertwomurderspointtooneperson.”
Kanelookedfromonetotheother.“Thenwehavetoconsiderwehavedifferentpeopleresponsible.ApairforsurefortheBeckyPowellcasebutmaybewehaveacompletelydifferentpersonresponsibleforkillingLaurieandhermother.”
FORTY-FIVE
Thewindhadpickedupanditwhistleddownthealleywayinaneeriemoanasifnaturemournedthemurderofanotherinnocentvictim.AsJennamadeherwaytotheBeast,herbootscrunchedontheleavesoverflowingthegutters.Abeautifulnuisance,theleavescameineveryshadefromgreentohoneybrownandbroughtbackmemoriesofherchildhood,runningthroughthepiles,kneedeepandkickingtheleavesabouttowatchthemsettlelikefeathersagain.Shevaluedtheleaves,andwelcomedthemtothesmallgardensherarelyhadtimetotend.Theleavesofferedherrosebushesnourishmentandwoulddisintegratecomethefirstrain.Pushingbackhermemoriesintotheirsafeplace,sheclimbedintothetruckandfastenedherseatbelt.Astheyheadedbacktotheoffice,sheturnedtoKane.“IwanttodragDr.TurnerdownhererightnowbutIguesswe’dbetterwaituntilheviewsthebody.”
“Ifigurewe’llhaveourhandsfullwiththeWyattCooperinterview.”Kanefollowedthelineoftraffic,mostlysightseersdrivingslowlytoadmirethetown,andthenturnedintotheparkingspaceoutfrontofthesheriff’sdepartment.
“I’llsendRowleyovertotheviewingandhecanescorthimbackhere.”Jennastaredoutthewindowthinking.“IhopeTurnercomesinvoluntarily.Hedoesn’thavetospeaktousandI’mnotsurewhatevidencewehaveisenoughforanarrestwarrant.Thejudgehasbeenhardertoconvincelately.”
“TellRowleytoaskhimtocomeintosignsomepaperwork.”Kanescratchedhischeek.“Addthathe’llneedtoapplytoclaimtheirbodiesaswell.I’llcallWolfeandmakesurehegivesRowleyallthedocumentstobringbackwithhim.IdoubtDr.TurnerwillknowthosemattersareusuallyhandledbytheME.”
Millingoverthescenario,Jennanodded.“Yeah,we’lltakehimdowntotheinterviewroom,gethimtosignthepapers,andthenaskthequestions.I’llswitchonthecameraandreadhimhisrights.”Sheblewouthercheeks.“He’llprobablywalkrightoutthedoor.”
“We’llsee.”Kanethoughtforabeat.“DoyouthinkJowouldcomedowntositinontheinterviewswithbothsuspects?”
Jennaliftedoneshoulder.“Shemightbebackbynow,shewantedtogoonatourofthesapphireminesoutatLouanyesterday.I’mnotsurewhenshe’sdueback.Callherandseeifshecandropby.”
SheheadedintotheofficeandbeforeshecouldstoptotalktoMaggiebehindthecounter,Dukecameflashingfromherofficeandskiddedtoahaltwithahalfyawn,halfwhine.Shebenttopathimbuthe’dspottedKanebehindheranddidhisusualwelcomedance.Sheturnedandlaughed.“He’shappywemadeitbackforlunch.Justhowmanytimesadaydoyoufeedhim?Mostpeoplefeedtheirdogsonceaday.Heatetheentirebowloffoodatmyhouselastnight.”
“He’skindastuckonthreemealsaday.”Kaneshrugged.“Idon’tfeedhimthreefullmeals.It’sbecomeahabitsinceIfoundhim.TheV-E-Ttoldmetogivehimsmallmealsorhe’dvomitafterbeingstarvedforsolong.”HebenttogiveDukeafullbodyrubalongbothsides.“He’snotoverweightandIlikehimtobehappy.”
JennasmiledandturnedtoMaggie.“AnythinghappenIneedtoknowabout?”
“Notathing.”Maggiestaredatthehotlinephone.“I’mexpectingafewcallsoncethestoryaboutthemurderhitsthenews.”ShewavedahandtowardRioandRowleyworkingattheirdesks.“IhavehelpifIneedit.”
“Well,you’llhaveoneofthem.”JennaindicatedtowardRowley.“I’msendingRowleytodoavictimidentificationformeatnoon.”SheheadedtowardRowleyandfilledhiminwiththeirplantogetDr.Turnerintoaninterviewroom.“He’sprickly,sostayasfriendlyaspossible.WeneedtoaskhimsomequestionsandIhaveastrangefeelinghe’snotgoingtolikeit.”
“Copythat.”Rowleyleanedbackinhischairandlookedather.“ThanksforgivingmethetimetobewithSandy.Itmadehersettlehavingmethere.”
Jennaleanedonehipagainsthisdesk.“Familyissoimportantandwecanalwaysmanage,Jake.Thisisatoughjobandmarriagesoflawenforcementofficershavebeenspoiledbecauseoftheworkload.I’mgoingtomakesurethatneverhappenshere.”SheglancedupasMr.CooperandWyattwalkedintotheoffice.“Hmm,they’reearly.”
Shestraightenedandwenttogreetthem.“Ah,thanksforcomingin,canIgetyouanything,coffee,water?”
“No,we’refine.”Mr.Cooperlookedapprehensive.“Whatisityouneedfrommyboy,Sheriff?”
JennawaitedforKanetocometoherside,asitwasobvioushehadsomethingonhismind.ShesmiledatMr.Cooper.“Justafewquestions.Ifyou’llgivemeaminute?I’vejustwalkedinthedoor.I’llhaveDeputyRiotakeyoutoaninterviewroom.Itwillbemorecomfortable.”SheturnedtoRio.“TakeMr.CooperandWyattdowntointerviewroomoneformepleaseandwaitwiththem.”ShelookedatMr.Cooper.“Iwon’tbelong.Iknowyouhavetogetbacktowork.”
ShewalkedawaywithKane.“Hassomethingcomeup?”
“NopebutJoisonherway.”KaneglancedatMaggie.“DoyouthinkMaggiewouldmindwatchingJaimeforawhile?”
“I’llaskher.”Jennawenttothefrontcounter.“JohasofferedtoassistwithacoupleofinterviewsbutshehasJaimewithher.IfRiotakesoverthefrontdesk,wouldyoubeabletolookafterherforme?Youcanusemyoffice.”
“I’dloveto.”Maggiebeamed.“Sheissuchanagreeablechild.”
ThedooropenedandAgentJoWellscameinwithherdaughter,Jaime,whowascuddlingaBostonTerrier.JennasmiledatJo.“Thankyousomuchforcoming.MaggiewillwatchoverJaimeforyou.”
“Iwasdrivingthroughtownlookingforsomethingtodo.”Joshrugged.“JaimeistuckeredoutandIcan’treachCarter.Iwantedtoaskhimifhewantedtoreturnhomeearly.”Shesmiled.“Atlast,twocasesIcangetmyteethinto.Kanehasbroughtmeuptodate.Whoisfirst?”
Jennaledthewaytotheinterviewroom.“WyattCooperandhisfather,thesubjectisonlysixteenandwastheboyfriendofLaurieTurnerbeforetheybrokeupjustbeforeshewasmurdered.”
“Yeah.”JolookedatheriPad.“IhavethecasefilesifIneedthem.IknowI’mhereasaconsultantbutdoyouwantmetotakethelead?Imightbeabletogetunderhisguard.”
Jennanodded.“Yeahthanks,I’mgettingmixedmessagesfromthiskid.I’msureyouandDavewillbeabletountanglethembetweenyou.I’lltakenotesandobserve.”Shescannedhercardoutsidetheinterviewroomandtheyallwalkedinside.“Thanks,Rio.Takeoverthefrontcounter.Maggieisbusy.”Beforeshetookherseat,sheturnedonthecameraandrecordingdevices.“Mr.CooperandWyatt,thisisSpecialAgentJoWellsandyouknowDeputyKane.”
“TheFBI?Whatisgoingonhere?”Mr.Cooper’sfacedrainedofcolor.“Doweneedalawyer?”
“Youarewithinyourrightstohaveonepresentbutitmaynotbenecessary.”Jo’sfacehadsetintoapleasantexpression.“Wehavetodivulgesomeinformationthatissensitive.”
“However—”Kaneleanedforward,“—Ihavetoinformyouthatanythingyousaycanbeusedagainstyouinacourtoflaw.”Hefinishedgivingthemtheirrights.“Doyouunderstand?”
“Ihaven’tdoneanythingwrong.”Wyattleanedforwardpalmsuponthetable.“I’vegotnothingtohide.Askaway.”
“Areyouinagreement,Mr.Cooper?”Jolookedattheworriedman.
“Iguessso.”Mr.Coopershrugged.
“Doyourecallmissinganyunderwear,apairofgreenbriefstobespecific?”JostaredatWyatt.
“No,I’vetonsofpairsofshorts.Idon’treallykeeptrackofthemoncethey’reinmylaundrybasket.”Wyatt’scheekspinked.“Why?”
“ApairofyourbriefswerefoundatthemurdersceneofLaurieTurner.”Jowaswatchinghimsointently,shedidn’tasmuchasblink.“They’vebeenidentifiedasbelongingtoyoubyDNAfoundonthegarment.”Sheleanedforwardslightly.“Howdoyoufiguretheygotthere?”
“Ihavenoidea.”Wyattpressedafingerintothetable.“Lauriewasanicegirl.Wedidn’thavesexandI’veneverremovedmyshortsinherpresence.NordidIgiveherapairasasouvenirorwhatever.Youmustbemistaken.”
“Nomistake.”JomadeafewnotesonheriPadbutdidn’tlookup.“Isthereanywayapersoncouldobtainapairofbriefsyouhadworn?”Sheliftedhergaze.“Areyoursoiledclotheseverleftinaplacewheresomeonecouldstealapair?”
“Idon’tthinkso.”Wyattstaredatthewallforlongminutesandthensnappedhisfingers.“IwasthinkingwhereI’vebeen,IfiguredthepoolbutmythingsareinalockerandI’dnoticeifmyunderwearwasmissing,butnotattrainingorafterthegames.I’musuallysweaty,Istripofflikemostoftheguysandshower.AfterI’mdressed,Istuffthedirtysocksandunderwearintoabag.Igiveittomymomtowashandshereplacestheminmybackpack.”Heshrugged.“So,mythingsalongwithalltheotherguysareusuallyinapileonthefloorinthelockerroomduringthetimewetakeashower.”Heleanedbackinthechair.“Nogirlsareallowedinthelockerrooms,sohowshecamebythemIdon’tknow.”
“HowwelldoyouknowLaurie’smother?”Kanestraightenedthestatementbookandpickedupapen.
“I’vemetherafewtimes.”Wyattfrowned.“Why?”
“Didyouknowshewasonceacheerleader?”Josmiled.“Shecontinuedonincollegeaswell.IbetshetaughtLaurieafewmoves.”
“Yeah,that’salltheywouldtalkaboutasifitwastheonlythingonearth.”Wyattpushedanagitatedhandthroughhishair.
“WhendidyoulastgotoMrs.Turner’sapartment?”Jo’seyesboredintohim.“Didyougotoseeherrecently?”
“No.ThelasttimewouldhavebeenIndependenceDay.WedroppedbytoseeherbecauseLauriewantedhertocomeseetheparade.Weendedupmissingmostofitbecausehermawashavingoneofherheadaches.”Wyattrolledhiseyes.“ThatwasthelasttimeIwenttoherapartment.”
“Here’sourproblem.”Kaneleanedforwardandeyeballedhim.“Wehavetwodeadwomenandhaveevidencetoproveyouwereatbothcrimescenes.”Hetappedhispenonthedesk.“Wherewereyoulastnightbetweensevenandmidnight?”
“Intownwiththeguys.Igothomebeforeten.”Wyattlookedhorrified.“Ihaven’tkilledanyone.”
“Whatdoyoudrive?”Jo’sattentionhadneverlefthisface.
“AwhiteFordpickup.”Mr.Cooperfrowned.“It’sstillinmyname.”
“Okay,Wyatt,writedownwhoyouwerewithlastnightandwhereyouwent.”Kanenonchalantlyslidthestatementbookacrossthetable.“Whenyou’redone,signit,andMr.Cooper,I’llneedyoursignatureaswell.”Hestood.“We’llbebackshortly.Heturnedofftherecordingdevicesandledthewayoutside.
Jennalookedfromonetotheother.“Didyoupickupanything?”
“Idon’tbelievehe’sinvolved.”Joshrugged.“Hekepthishandsopenonthetable,hedidn’ttryandcomeupwithanyexcusesandappearedtobegenuinelyshocked.”ShesmiledatJenna.“We’veallbeenfooledbyapsychopathbutheisn’texhibitinganyoftheusualsmartasscomebacksI’dexpect.Heisshowingempathy.Ibelievehim.”
Jennanodded.“That’sgoodenoughforme.”SheopenedthedoortotheinterviewroomandsmiledattheCoopers.“Thankyouforcomingby.Onceyou’vehandedinthestatement,you’refreetogo.”
FORTY-SIX
JennaleanedagainstthewallwatchingtheCoopersleavethebuilding.SheheldoutherhandforthestatementbookKanewasholdingandscannedthepages.“I’llgetRowleytospeaktothislistofkidswhenhegivesDr.Turneraridebacktotheschool.It’sonlygeneralquestions,wewon’tneedtheirparents’permissiontospeaktothem.”Sheglancedupathim.“Coopermightbeasinnocentasheseemsbuthe’sstilltickingalltheboxes.”
“Idon’ttrustanyofthemrightnow.”Kaneslidhispeninsidehispocket.“Himmostofall.”HeindicatedwithhischintowardDr.TurnermovingdownthehallwaywithRowley.
Jennaturnedherbackonthevisitor’sarrivalandwalkedwithKaneandJobackintotheemptyinterviewroom.“We’llleaveRowleytogetthepaperworksorted.Oncehecomesout,I’llgivehimthelistofWyatt’sfriends,itwillgivehimtimetomakearrangementswiththeschooltospeaktothem.”ShelookedatJo.“Doyourthing,betweenthepairofyou,wemightgetsomewherewithDr.Turner.”
Herphonechimed.ItwasRiofromthefrontdesk.“Isthereaproblem?”
“No,it’squietsoIhunteddownred1950Fordpickupsinthecounty.ApartfromtheonebelongingtoTurner,there’snone,fittingtheyear,model,ordescription,hereorinanyneighboringcounties.”Rioclearedhisthroat.“They’reaclassiccar.Ifoundafewaroundthestateindifferentcolors,someareredbutnotasdistinctiveastheoneownedbyLaurieTurner.”
Jennanodded.“Thankyou,that’sgoodtoknow.”ShedisconnectedandrelayedtheinformationtoJoandKane.“I’dliketoseehowTurnerexplainshiswayoutoftheevidenceagainsthim.”Sheranherfingersalongtheedgeofthestatementbookandthoughtforabeat.“I’mwonderingifhe’sinvolvedinLaurie’smurderaswell.Fromherbestfriend’saccountLauriewasafraidofherfatherandshehasaboltonherbedroomdoor.Thatinitselfisaredflagthatsomethingwasn’trightbetweenthem.”
“Heisaschoolcounselor,sohe’dhaveaccesstothelockerroomsthefootballteamuses.Noonewouldhavemadementionabouthimwanderinginside.HecouldhavestolentheunderweartolayblameonWyatt.”Jo’sbrowsfurrowed.“Heknowsthevehicleandcouldhavedisableditbutthatdoesn’taccountforthesightingofLauriegettingintoaChryslersedanthenightofherdeath.”
“Wemighthaveawitnessseeinghergettingintothevehicle,butwedon’tknowifthedriverdroppedherhome.”Kanescratchedhischeek.“Orwhereshedied.Weonlyhavetheplaceshewasfound.Thinkaboutthisscenario:Turnerdisableshervehicleandnotknowingaboutherdroppingherphone,he’dassumeshe’dgetaridehomewithherfriends.Whenshegetshome,hestranglesherinhersleep.Weknowshedidn’tstruggle,ifshesleptfacedown,hecouldhaveeasilystrangledherfrombehindandthentakenherbodyinhisvehicleouttotheminesandleftherthere.Thestabbingcouldbeaploytomakeusbelievesomeoneelsewasinvolved.”Helookedfromonetotheother.“Thebedlinenwaschangedandeverythingwasneat.Itallpointstohim.”
Jennashookherhead.“TheonlyproblemhereisthesalivafoundatthescenematchingthesweatatRowley’shouse.”Shefacepalmedherhead.“See,wehaveevidencebutthere’smissingbitsorthingsthatdon’taddup.”
“Ma’am.”Rowleypokedhisheadaroundthedoor.“I’vefinishedthepaperworkwithDr.Turner.Itoldhimyouwantedtospeakwithhim.”
Jennasmiledandpulledopenthedoor.“Thanks,Jake.”ShehandedhimacopyofWyattCooper’sstatement.“Whilewe’rebusy,calltheschoolandhuntdownthesewitnessesandseeifthey’llbackupCooper’salibi.Seeifyoucantalktothemafteryou’vegivenDr.Turneraridebacktotheschool.ThisistodowithMrs.Turner’smurdersothere’snoconflictofinterest.”
“Sure.”Rowleysmiled.“IcalledSandybeforeandshesaidtothankyouallfortheflowersyousenttothehospitalandthefood.”Hestartedtobackdownthehallway.
“Anytime.”Jennalookedathisearnestface.“I’msohappyshe’sokay.”SheturnedtoKaneandJo.“Let’sdothis.”
Afterscanninghercardandleadingthewayintotheotherinterviewroom,Jennaswitchedonthecamerasandonceeveryonehadstatedtheirnamesfortherecordandshe’dreadDr.Turnerhisrights,shesatdown.“I’msureyou’rewonderingwhyweneedtospeakwithyou,Dr.Turner.AgentWellswouldliketoquestionyouaboutthemurderofyourwife.”
“Mywifeleftmesixyearsago,ifI’dwantedtokillher,I’dhavedoneitbynow.”TurnersmiledatJo.“Honestly,theFBI?Mywifewasauselessnobody.WhybringintheFBI?”
“Youmentionedinyourstatementyoudidn’tknowwhereJeanettelived,soIguessyou’veneverbeentoherapartment?”Jotookaneutralpose.
“WhywouldIwanttovisither?”Turner’sconfidenttwitchofthelipsreturned.“Sheleftme,remember?ShetookallourmoneybutshenevergottokeepLaurie,didshe?No,Iputastoptothat.”
“Okay,sohowdidyourfingerprintsgetalloverherapartment?”Jo’seyesfixedonhim.“Orwhywasyourvehicleseenparkedoppositethealleywaytowhereshelived?”
“Iwantalawyer.”Dr.Turnerleanedbackinhischair,lookingsmug.“Iknowmyrights.CallSamuelJCross.Iwon’tspeaktoanyoneunlessheispresent.”
Jennapushedtoherfeet.“Asyouwish.”ShelookedatKane.“HoldDr.Turnerforquestioningofsuspicionofmurderandtakehimdowntothecells.I’llseeifIcanlocateSamCross.”Sherolledhereyes.Ofallthelawyers,sheandSamCrosswereusuallyatloggerheads.SheledJooutoftheinterviewroomandtheylingeredinthehallway.“Ifigurehe’sourman.”
“Yeah,buthe’ssosmug,I’mexpectinghimtopullarabbitoutofhishatsoon.”JostaredatTurnerthroughtheone-wayglass.“Theevidenceagainsthimforbothmurdersisenoughforanarrestwarrantbutmorewouldbebetter.Ifyoucouldgetintohisofficeandhishometoseeifhe’sleftanyincriminatingevidence,itmighthelp.”Sheshrugged.“Youdon’tneedhislawyer’spermissiontoapplyforasearchwarrant.”
Jennanodded.“I’llgetthatunderway.”Shesighed.“Wehavehiswife’sautopsyattwo.Willyoubeabletostickaroundfortheinterview?”
“YoucouldholdTurnerovernightforquestioning.”JopushedheriPadunderonearmandstaredbackattheprisoner.“Theautopsyfindingsmightbecrucialtofurtherquestioning.I’dwaituntilyoureturnbeforeyoucallinthelawyer.IfMr.SamuelJCrossinformsyouwhenheplanstoarrive,I’llcomeback.”Sheglancedatherwatch.“I’lltakeJaimebacktothehotelandwe’llhavesomelunch.”
Jennasqueezedherarm.“Thanks,Jo.”
ThedoorclickedopenandJennastoodtoonesidetoallowKanetoescortDr.Turnerfromtheroom.Thedoctorsaidnothingwhenhestaredatherbuthisfacewassetinacruelsmile.Jowascorrect,hedidhavesomethinguphissleeve.
FORTY-SEVEN
Nervousanxietyhadgivenhimstomachcrampsallmorning.Thethrillofwatchinghisgirlkillagainwasfastbecominganightmare.Hedidn’tknowwhattodoandcouldn’tstopher,shewaslikeatornado,wildanduncontrollable.Sheunnervedhim,noshedarnrightterrifiedhim.Hecouldn’tgotothesheriff,hisinvolvementmadehimasguiltyasher,andhehopedDr.Turnerwouldsupplyhimwithanalibi.Hehadnochoicebuttogoalongwiththefinalcheerleaderonherlistandhopeitwouldbeover.Whenthebellsrangandstudentsstreamedoutoftheclassroomsheadingforthelastclassbeforelunch,hedraggedherintoanalcove.“Weneedtotalk.”
“What’sup?”Shegavehimaslowsmileandleanedinclose.“Weshouldn’tbeseentogether,notuntilwe’vedealtwithVickyPerez.”
Afraidsomeonewouldseehimwithher,heturnedhisback,tohideherfromview.“Allhellisbreakingloose.TheyfoundLaurie’smommurderedthismorningandnowthesheriffhascalledintheFBI.”
“TheFBI?”Sheblinkedathim.“Really?”
“Yeah,Isawthemtogethertalkingupastorm.They’rehardtomissintheirjackets.”Hegrabbedherbythearms.“Didyoukillher?”
“WhywouldIwanttokillLaurieTurner’smom?”Sheburstoutlaughing.“Whotoldyouthisshit?”
Asifhe’ddivulgehisclandestinemeetingwithDr.Turnerlatelastnight.Thedoctorhadfoundhiswifemurderedandaskedforhishelp.Dr.Turnerwasconvincedhewasn’tinvolvedandhe’dgonealongwithhisplantomovethebodyintothealleyway.Theshockofrealizationthathisgirlwaskillingwithouthim,hadbroughthisworldcrashingdown.Heknewshewaslyingtohimanditmadehimangry.He’dseenthemessintheapartmentandithadn’tbeeneasygettingMrs.Turner’sbodyintothealleyway,evenwiththedoctor’shelp.TherewasnowayhisgirlcouldhavetakenonMrs.Turneralone.Hegaveheralittleshake.“Stopit.It’snotfunny.”Heexaminedherface.“You’reseeingsomeoneelsebehindmyback,aren’tyou?Youwentmissingintownlastnight,justaroundthetimeMrs.Turnerwasstrangled.”
“Iwenthome.”Sheblinkedathim.“IwantedtohangaroundbutwhenVickystartedcrawlingalloveryoulikearash,IgotsomadIwantedtostabherrightthere.”Herlipscurledintoaseductivesmile.“ItwouldhavebeentooquickforherandIwanttofinishherinoursecretplace.Ilikethatwatchingmekillmakesyouwanttomakeout.”Shegiggled.“You’reasmessedupasIam,huh?”
AmI?GuiltandsicknesshadovercomehimafterkillingBeckyandyethisgirlseemedtothriveonmurder.Hechewedontheinsideofhischeek.Itwasasifshehadnofeelingsandthekillingdidn’tbotherher.Inthatmomentherealized,shedidn’tlovehimatall.Shewasn’tcapableofloveandhadmanipulatedhimtoliveoutsomecrazyfantasy.Now,itwasobviousshe’dteamedupwithanotherguy.Ifhedeniedhernow,she’dturnonhimlikearattlesnake.Hestaredintoherbigguiltlesseyesandgroundhisteeth.He’dplayhergameandthenaskhisfolkstosendhimawaytocollege.He’dalreadyhadoffersanditwashisonlywaytogetridofher
“Don’tlooksoworried.Wehavethis.”Shetwirledastrandofhairaroundafinger.“Doyouknowwhytheprincipalwascallingstudentstohisoffice?DoesthesherifffigureoneofuskilledLaurie’smother?”
Henodded.“Yeahbutdon’tworry,you’renotonthelist.”Heshrugged.“They’reonlycallingguys,soifyou’vebeenseeingsomeoneelse,Iguessyou’dbetterwarnhim.”
“It’sjustyouandme.”Shestaredintohiseyes,herexpressiondeadlyserious.“Nowthesheriffbelievesitssomeonefromtheschool,they’llbewatchingeveryoneclosely,sowehaven’tmuchtime.It’sgottobetonight.”Sheleanedintohimandwetherlips.“IhaveplansforVicky.I’mchangingupmystyletoconfusethecops.I’mnotplanningonstranglingher,she’stoostrong.”Herlipsliftedintoasmile.“Doyourecallseeingthoseoldbottlesofchemicalsinthebarn?”
Dreadcrawledoverhiminadark,coldcloak.Heswallowedhard.“Yeah,acidsandstuff,Ithink?Why?”
“Ifoundabottleofchloroform.”Shegiggled.“Doyouknowwhatthatdoestopeople?Itputsthemtosleep.Afewdropsonaragheldoverhermouthandshe’llbeout.We’llbeabletotieherupandshe’llbeundermycontrol.I’llbeabletotakemytimeanddowhateverIwantandshewon’tbeabletodoathing.We’llneedanotherpairofshorts.See,usingdifferentoneseachtimeconfusesthecops.”
Hescratchedhischeek.“It’stoolatenowandI’mnotgoingthroughsomeguy’sbackpacklookingforhissweatyunderwear.”
“Thenbringapairofyours.”Shecuppedhischeeks.“IknowwhatI’mdoing.HavingthreedifferentDNAsatacrimesceneandnothingelse,they’llbelievesomeonetookyourshortsaswell.Don’tworry,noonewillcatchusandsoonitwillbeover.”
Hepushedhishandsintohispocketstostopthemtrembling.Shewascapableofanythingandhewouldn’tbeabletowatchhertortureVicky.Heshookhishead.“Ifyoucutheruprealbad,itwillbehardertodumpher.Wherecanwetakeherwithoutbeingseen?Thecopsareallovertheplacerightnow,andtheystillhavereinforcementsfromBlackwater.”
“Itdoesn’tmatterwherewedumpher.”Shedroppedherhandsagitated.“We’lltossheroutonthesideoftheroad,somewhereremote.”Shepickedupherbackpack.“I’vegottago.I’llseeyoutonightatthebarn.Gethertherebyeight.I’llbewaitinginside.”
Herubbedthebackofhisneck.“Shemightnotcomewithme.”
“Shewill,shehasn’tstoppedtalkingaboutyou.”Angerflashedinhereyes.“Shemakesmemad.Youmakesureshe’stherebecauseyoudon’twanttomakemeangrytoo,doyou?”
FORTY-EIGHT
Exhilarated,JennagaveKaneahigh-fiveasshewalkedfromseeingthejudge.“Ohmygosh,Iwassurehe’drefuse.Althoughwecan’treadhiscasefiles,Turnerwillhaveanappointmentbookforsure.”ShegrinnedatKaneandwavedthepaperworktriumphantly.“NowwhendowedeliverthegoodnewstoDr.Turner?”
“Wehavehalfanhourbeforetheautopsy.”Kanecheckedhiswatch.“Notlongenoughtoconductasearch…andyou’llwantWolfealongaswell…buttimeenoughtogrababiteatAuntBetty’s.”Heopenedthedoortohistruck.
Jennapulledopenthepassengerdoorandclimbedin.“Sure,I’mhungrytoo.”
AuntBetty’sofferedarespitefromthetensionaroundamurderinvestigation.JennainhaledthesmellsofnotagreasyspoonbutaplacemorelikeGrandma’skitchenonbakingdays.Asachild,shelovedvisitinghergrandmaandhelpingherbakecakesandcookies.Itwaspartofhergrandma’sroutine,oncethefamilylefthome,withonlyherselfandGrandpatocookfor,hergrandmawouldcookupgreatpotsoffoodeachweekendandpackthemintothefreezerfortherestoftheweek.Hergrandmatoldheritsavedtimeandenergy,doingeverythingontheoneday.Sheneverhadtoworrywhatwasfordinnerandhadachoiceofmealsandinsisteditwaslikeeatingouteverynight.
Refusingtothinkabouttheupcomingautopsy,Jennawenttothecountertopeerattheday’sspecials.SheorderedchunkybeefpiewithfriesonthesideandcaughtKane’smouthtwitchingintoasmile.Shelookedathim.“What?”
“Thepiesurelooksgood,thepastryhassomanylayersitmeltsinyourmouth.”Kaneorderedthesamemeal.“Butyoueatlikeabird.I’mwonderingifyou’rethesameJennaIknoworyou’vebeentakenoverbyanalienbodysnatcher?”
Jennaledthewaytotheirtableintheback.“I’mhungryisall.Idon’tsnackalldaylikeyoudoandI’vebeentoobusytofilluponcoffee.”
“I’mnotcomplaining.”KanesatdownandremovedhisStetsonanddroppeditontotheseatbesidehim.Heletoutalongsigh.“Whatisitwithfestivalsandcrime?I’dbeenhopingwe’dhavewrappedthiscaseupbynowandmadeittothefalldanceonSaturdayafterall.”
“Youreallywantedtogo?”Jennagrinned.“YouknowIwouldn’tstepalloveryourtoesifyoutookmetoaplacewhereIcouldjustwiggleabittothemusic,wewouldn’thaveaproblem.”
“Trustme.”Kaneshookhishead.“Thatain’tnevergonnahappen.”Heleanedtowardher.“Ilikedancingwithapurpose…andI’mgettingusedtoyouscuffingupmyboots.”
Theirmoodbecamesombertheinstanttheywalkedintothemorgue.ThecoldairwaslikeaslapinthefaceandseemedtosuckallthehappinessoutofJenna.Thetoofamiliarodorinvadedhernostrilsandsenthercrashingbacktoharshreality.ShefollowedKanedownthestarkwhitehallway,thenoiseofhisbootsonthetileanirreverentechointhesilence.Astheystoppedinthealcovetosuitupsayingnothing,thetickoftheclockonthewallsoundedloudinthequiet.ShelookedatKane.“Whereiseveryone?”
“Oh,that’sright.”Hepulledthegreenscrubsbackoverhisheadandhungthemonapegwithhisjacket.“Wolfewillbeinhisoffice.Hewantedtoexamineourstitchesbeforehestartedtheautopsy.IguessEmilyandWebberaregettingtheexaminationroomready.”Heranthetipofonefingerovertheyellowingbruiseunderhereye.“How’stheeyefeeling?”
Jennapulledoffthescrubsanddroppedthemontoapegalongsidehis.“I’mfine.Itdoesn’tworrymeatall.”SheheadedtowardWolfe’sofficeandknocked.
“Comein.”Wolfe’smuffledvoicecamefrombehindthedoor.
“Afternoon.”Jennawalkedinside.“Davesaidyouwantedtocheckourstitches?”
“Yeah,pulloffyourT-shirts.”Wolfetookamedicalkitfromthebenchandpulledoutafewthings.HesnappedonglovesandremovedJenna’sdressing.“Jenna,you’regoodtogo.Leavethecleandressingonforaweekandthencomebackandseeme.It’swaterproof,soyou’llbefineintheshowerbutkeepoutofthehottub.”HereplacedthedressingandafterchanginghisglovesturnedtoKane.“Hmm,yoursisnotsofine.”Hecleanedupthewoundandwentbacktohisfieldmedicalkitandreturnedwithasyringe.“Showmeyourhip,I’mgivingyouashotofantibiotics.”
Jennahadhershirtoverherheadwhenthedooropened.ShepulleditintoplaceandstaredatEmily.“Hi,Em.Wereyoulookingforus?”
“Moreprickles?”Emilyraisedbotheyebrows.“Youtwoaresuregettingyourselvesintostrifethisweek.”
“No,notmoreprickles.”Wolfetossedthesyringeintoareceptacleandremovedhisgloveswithasnap.“I’mfollowinguponmypatientsisall.Areyoureadyformenow?”
“Yeah.”Emilyleanedagainstthedoorframe.“I’vebeenlookingovertheresultsofallthevictimsandtheinitialexaminationofMrs.Turnertellsmeit’sadifferentkiller.Ifthisisn’tso,IneedtoknowwhatI’mmissing.”
“We’llworkthroughitandseewhatwefind.”Wolfewavedheroutthedoor.“We’reonourway.”
Insidetheexaminationroom,Jennamovedtothearrayofcomparisonimagesdisplayedonthescreens.ShelikedthatWolfehadalltheinformationontheothervictimsathand,theyoftenneededtoknowifthesamepersonwasresponsibleforastringofmurders.Bycomparingresults,acopycatstoodoutlikeasorethumb.Shescannedtheimages,makingamentalnoteoftheinjuriestoeachvictim.Toher,ignoringthefacttheyallhadthecheerleaderinvolvementtolinkthem,theinjuriessustainedappearedtobecompletelydifferent.SheglancedatKane.“ThankGodformedicalexaminers.Yearsago,sheriffshadtomakeajudgmentcalloncaseslikethisandfromwhatI’mseeinghere,wehavetwounrelatedcases.”
“Yeah,I’mwonderinghowDr.Turnerisgoingtoslidehiswayoutofhiswife’smurder.”Kaneshookhishead.“Itjustseemstooobvious.”
“Somemurdersareobvious.”Wolfeshrugged.“Noteverymurderisamystery.Thepersonresponsibleisusuallyaclosefamilymember.Addsomemarriageproblemsandeightoutoftentimesit’sthespouse.”HepulledthesheetfromJeanetteTurner’spalebody,adjustedthemicrophone,andlookedatthemoverhismask.“Okay,let’sbeginwithmyinitialfindings.”
“Onethingisforsure,shedidn’tdieinthealleyway.”Kanemovedclosertothebodyandexaminedthefeet.“Herfeetareclean,apartfromthedragmarksonherheels.TheycorrespondtothemarksIfoundinthealleyway.”HeturnedtoWolfe.“Shewasn’trolleddownthestepseither.Iexaminedthebottomofthestairsforimpactimpressionsandfoundnothingtoindicateafall.”
“Theinjurieswouldsupportthatbutthereisamarkonherlefthip,ascrapethathassplintersinit,nobleedingorbruising.Thiswouldindicateshewasdraggedoverthesteptreadspost-mortem.”Wolfeindicatedtovariousbruisesonherbody.“Allofthesehappenedatthesametime,allhavesubdermalhematomaswhich,indicateshewasalivewhentheywereinflicted.”Hemovedtothevictim’shead.“Lookatthebruisesonherface,seethesmallcutonthecheekbone?”
AcoldbreezeseemedtoenvelopeJennaasshepeeredatthewoundandthenturnedtolookattheenlargedimageonthescreenWolfehadflickedup.Toomanytimesshe’dseenwomencoveredinbruisesjustlikeJeanetteTurner.“I’veseenthesameinjuryinspousalabuse.Anopenhandslapfollowedbyabackhandandinthiscasethepersonresponsibleiswearingaring.”
“Betterstill.”Wolfe’seyestwinkledoverhismask.“Ifigureitmayhaveastoneinit,ifso,there’sagoodchancesomeDNAmighthavebeensnaggedinthesetting.”HelookedatJenna.“HaveyounoticedifDr.Turnerwearsaring?”
Jennashrugged.“I’mnotsure.”
“Yeahhedoes.”Kanereachedforhisphone.“IhadhimplaceallhisvaluablesinabagwhenItookhimdowntothecells.”Heheadedforthedoor.“Andwehaveasearchwarrant.Keepgoing,I’llgetsomeonetobringhisbelongingshere.”
“There’ssomethingsignificantweshouldmentionatthispoint.”EmilychangedtheimagesonthescreentoX-rays.“Mrs.TurnersufferedanumberofbrokenbonesinherlifetimeandoneisamatchwithwhatwefoundonLaurie.Lookingbackonbothvictims’medicalfiles,theywenttotheERwithfartoomanyinjuries.”
JennastaredattheX-rays,uncomprehending.“Explain.”
“Theinjuriestobothwomen’sarmscanonlybecausedbysomeonetwistingthearm.”Emily’seyesreflectedheranger.“Ifbothwomeninthesamehouseholdhadthesameinjuryitpointstoabuse.I’mshockedthedoctorstreatingthematthehospitaldidn’tputtwoandtwotogetherandnotifytheauthorities.”
ThedespaircreepingaroundJenna’sheartwasquicklyfollowedbyrevulsionaimedatthemanresponsibleforinflictingsuchinjuries.Shedugdeeptofindherprofessionaldemeanor,unabletoallowherdisgusttoovershadowtheinvestigation.“Unfortunately,untilIbecamesheriff,manypeopleturnedablindeyetospousalabuse.Peopledidn’tthinkitwastheirbusinesstogetinvolved.Thingsarechangingnow.WomenknowtheycangethelpinmytownandthatI’llsupportthem.”ShestaredatEmily’sdistraughtexpression.“Thisdoesn’tonlyhappentowomen.Mencanhaveabusivewivesbutmanydon’tbelieveit’smanlytocomplainandsufferinsilence.I’mworkingonchangingthatviewbymakingsureanymaninthatpositioncanspeaktomydeputiesinconfidence.”
“Movingrightalong.”WolfenoddedtoKaneashecamebackintotheroom.“Thelivormortis…ahthepurplediscolorationinthebuttocksandlowerlimbsisthebloodsettling,whichindicatesthevictimwasposedshortlyafterdeath.So,bythestateofrigorandhertemperatureonscene,IcangiveyouanarrowmarginfortheTOD.Iestimateitisbetweeneightandmidnightlastnight,morelikelybetweeneightandten.”HeindicatedtothemarksonMrs.Turner’sarmsandthighs.“Unliketheothervictims,JeanetteTurnerhadsexualactivitypriortoherdeathandfrommyexamination,Idon’tbelieveitwasconsensual.”
“No,therewasnolovelostbetweenDr.Turnerandhiswife.”Kaneshookhishead.“Thefinaldominationbeforestranglingher,doyouthink?”
“Morelikely,hestrangledherduringtheattack.”WolfepointedatthethumbprintsonJeanette’spalewaxenthroatandthenturnedtheheadtorevealimpressedfingermarksonbothsidesofherneck.“Afrontalattack,hewantedtowatchherdieandfromthestateoftheapartment,shefoughtforherlife.Shedidn’tstandachance,oncehe’dsecuredherhandsbehindherbackwiththecordfromherrobe.”Heliftedbothbaggedhandsandindicatedtothemarksindentedinherflesh.“Themarksmatchthecord.HeremovedittoposeherbutTurnerisn’tabigguy,hemusthavehadtroublegettingherdownthesteps.”Wolfefrowned.“Thestairsaresteepandadeadbodycarriedoveroneshoulderwouldbedifficult,carriedinthearms,impossible.”HelookedatJenna.“Hedidn’tdragherdownthestepsorrollherdown.Hemusthavehadhelp.”
SuspiciontingledupJenna’sspine.“IsthisacopycatordoyoufigurethekillersofLaurieandBeckywereinvolved?”
“Copycat.”Kanemovedcloser.“Buthehadsomeinsideinformation,heknewaboutthestranglingandthatapompomwasinvolvedbutIfigureheimprovisedtherest.It’sDr.Turner.Hehasmotiveandwehaveevidenceagainsthim.IfwefindDNAonhisring,wehavehimdeadtorights.”
“Ihavetoagree.”Wolfemovedawayfromthebody.“EmilyisgoingtoconducttheinternalprocedureundermysupervisionbutIdon’tbelievewe’llfindanythingbuttheobvious.EverythingpointstoasphyxiationbystrangulationasCOD:themarks,brokenhyoid,andhematomasintheeyes.Shehadn’tbeendrinkingandItestedherfortheusualdrugsandfoundnothingalthoughasusualafulltoxscreenwillbeconductedasroutine.”
UneasecrawledoverJenna.Herteamwaslikeavault.Notoneofthemleakedinformationandsomehow,Turnerhaddiscoveredpertinentdetailsandtriedtomakehiswife’smurderlookasifLaurie’skillerhadcommittedthecrime.Sheranthecontentsofthemediareleasesthroughhermind.Laurie’shadmentionedthenakedbodyofateenagerbutnothingaboutthestrangulationorstabbing,Becky’shadmentionedascantilycladteenagerandnothingelse,neitherhadmentionedcheerleaders.
Thefrontdoorbuzzermadeared-lightflashinsidetheexaminationroom.Jennaheadedforthedoor.“Thatwillbethepersonaleffects.”SheglancedatKaneandWolfe.“Arewedonehere?”
“Yeah,Emcantakeitfromhere.”WolfefollowedheroutoftheexaminationroomwithKaneclosebehind.
JennacouldseeRiowaitingoutsidethetwosetsofglassdoorsandhurriedtolethimthrough.“Howisourprisoner?”
“ScreamingforhislawyerwhenIinformedhimwehaveasearchwarrantandwouldbeseizinghisbelongingsforforensicanalysis.Igavehimacopyofthewarrant.”Rioshrugged.“He’sactinglikealunaticbutIobserveddutyofcareandgavehimameal.”HehandedovertheenvelopewithDr.Turner’snameonitandacodetheyusedtoidentifypeople’sbelongings.“Haveyoufoundanythingtochargehim?”
“Plenty.”JennaledthewaybacktothehallwaywhereKaneandWolfewaited.“IfherDNAisonhisring,there’snodoubt.”ShehandedtheenvelopetoWolfe.“Here,unopenedsinceTurnerplacedhisbelongingsinside.”
“Good.”Wolfechangedhisscrubs,mask,andgloves.“YoucanobservethroughthewindowbutIdon’twantanyevidencecontaminated.”Hescannedhiscardandwentinsidethelaboratory.
Excited,Jennaslippedinsidethesmallobservationroom.Eachsideofher,KaneandRiotoweredoverherbothpeeringintentlyasWolfesettowork.AtrembleofanticipationslidoverherasWolfeplacedaslideintothemicroscope.Thefewsecondshetooktoexaminetheslideseemedtotakeayear.Whenhelookedupandgavethemthethumbsup,shegrippedKane’sarmfeelingthebunchedmusclesunderherfingersandgrinnedathim.“He’sfoundsomething.”
TheywaitedasWolfesetuptheDNAsequencerandthenwentbacktotheenvelopeandremovedawatchwithanexpandableband.Heexaminedthestrapcloselyandpulledsomethingoutwithtweezers.Jennapressedthemicrophone.“What’sthat?”
Wolfemovedtothemicroscopeagainandfiddledaround.Hesecuredthesampleinsideaplastictube,sealedit,andthenpulleddownthemicrophone.
“It’safewhairscaughtinhiswatchstrap.”Wolfelookedatthemoverthetopofhismask.“They’retherightcolor,I’llhavetorunafewcomparisonteststoseeiftheyareamatchforJeanetteTurner.Theringheldskinandbloodtraces.TheDNAresultswilltakeuptoanhour.WehaveMrs.Turner’sDNAonrecord,I’llcallyouassoonasIhaveanyinformation.”
JennalookedatKane.“Ifigurethenexthourisgoingtobethelongestinmylife.”
FORTY-NINE
HopefulWolfewouldfindDNAevidenceagainstDr.Turnerbutnottakinganythingforgranted,JennaandKaneheadedbacktotheofficetocollectthepaperworkforthesearchwarrants.She’dtakenthebunchofkeysfromTurner’spropertyenvelopebutwouldneedtoshowthesearchwarrantattheschooltogainaccesstohisofficewithoutcausinga
“What’ssofunny?”KaneglancedatherastheyturnedintoMain.
Jennashrugged.“Ohnothing,IwasjustthinkingaboutraidingTurner’sofficeattheschool.”
“And?”Kanegaveherapuzzledlook.
Shegiggled.“Well,iftheydidn’tlikeusinvadinghisoffice,whowouldtheycalltocomplain?Thesheriff?”
“Iseeyourpoint.”Kanepulledintohisspaceoutsidethesheriff’sdepartmentoffices.“That’swhywedoeverythingbythebook.”
TheywalkedinsideandasJennamadeherwaytoheroffice,Rowleyhurriedtoherside.Shewentstraighttothecoffeemachine.“Whatdoyouhaveforme,Jake?”
“AllWyattCooper’sfriendssayhewaswiththemonthenightofBecky’smurderbuteveryoneofthemwasvagueabouttime.Apparently,theywentintoAuntBetty’sCaféatsomepointbutwereallhavingagoodtimeanddidn’tchecktheirwatches.Tworecalledvisitingthewoodcarvingexhibition,whichIcheckedstartedateight-thirtyinthecityhall.So,itseemsthegroup,allonthefootballteam,wentjustabouteverywhere.Ispoketothemallindividuallyandkeptthemseparatebeforequestioningthem.Theprincipalremainedintheroomthroughoutaswellasarepresentativeoftheirparents.Notthatitwasnecessary.”
Jennafilledtwoto-gocupswithcoffeeandaddedthefixings.“So,infactnoneofthemcanverifyCooper’swhereaboutsbetweeneightandten?”
“Notexactly,no.”Rowleyscratchedhishead.“Notbeingabletopinanyofthemdownontimemadeitdifficultbuttheywereallforthcoming.”
“Hmm.”KanerestedahipontheedgeofJenna’sdesk.“So,ifhewasthekiller,thedefensewillusethatasreasonabledoubt.Wecan’tputhimatthesceneofthecrime.HemayormaynothavebeenintheareaatthetimeBeckywaskilled.”
“I’msorryIcouldn’tpinthemdown.”Rowleypushedhishandsintothefrontpocketsofhisjeans.“IfigurecheckingtheCCTVfootageatAuntBetty’smightgiveusatleastonepointofreference.”
Jennasealedthecupsandturnedtohim.“Getatit.Riocanholdthefort,we’regoingtosearchDr.Turner’sofficeandthenhishome,ifShaneisavailable.”
“Yes,ma’am.”Rowleyturnedandheadeddownthehallway.
AfterhandingKanethecups,Jennacollectedacopyofthesearchwarrantandfeelingsomethingwasmissing,lookedaroundtheoffice.“Where’sDuke?”
“Maggietookhimoutbacktostretchhislegs.”Kaneslidoffthedesk.“Hedoesn’tknowwe’rebackyet.”
“Wedon’tneedhimonthissearch.”Jennafoldedthedocumentandsliditintoherpocket.“Maybewecouldslipoutwithouthim?”
“Notachance.”Kaneplacedthecupsonthedeskatthesoundofclawsonthetiledfloor.HeturnedasDukeboundedintotheroom.“Heythere?”Herubbedthedog’sears.“Readytogosearchanoffice?”
JennarolledhereyesatDuke’sbarkofconsent.“MaybeIshouldgivehimabadge.”Sheledthewayoutoftheoffice.“Nowwouldn’tthatstickinCarter’scraw?”
TheentryintoDr.Turner’sofficewentassmoothassilk,althoughthenosywomanonthefrontcounterinsistedonstandingsentrytoensuretheydidn’tbreachpatient-doctorconfidentiality.ToJenna’ssurprise,thewomanturnedouttobeafontofinformation.ThestudentswhocametoseeTurnerwereallissuedwithanumber.Thisnumberwasusedtoidentifythestudentsandwasforthedoctor’seyesonlyalongwiththestudents’casefiles.Thefilingcabinetbeingoutofbounds,Jennawentstraightfortheappointmentjournalonthedesk.ThehairsonthebackofherneckprickledassheflippedthroughthepagesandfoundTurnertookstudents’appointmentsatschoolandinhishome.She’dassumedbythe“private”sessionshe’dmentionedpreviouslyasanalibi,itwaspartofhisregularpracticeandwasnotincludedinthefreeserviceofferedbytheschool.Shemadeamentalnotetoaskthereceptionist.HerattentionmovedtothenightofJeanetteTurner’smurder.Fromthenotes,hewaswithapatientthenighthiswifedied.Sothat’showheplanstogetawaywithmurder.
BitinghertonguetopreventspeakingherthoughtstoKane,shelookedatthewomanwatchingthemintently.“IsitusualforDr.Turnertotakestudentappointmentsathishome?”
“I’mnotinvolvedwithanyarrangementhemightmakeoutsideofschoolhoursorwiththestudents’parentsbutitwouldbeunusual.Mostpatientswanttobeanonymousandthelastpeopletheywantinvolvedistheirparents,I’msorrytosay.”Shebristled.“Dr.TurnerdoeshaveaprivatepracticebutI’msurehedealswithalltheproblemsthatarisehereduringclass.”ShecastherbeadyeyesoverJennalikeabuzzardcontemplatingitsnextmeal.“Heisboardcertified.Weareluckytohavehim.”
“Idon’tunderstandthenumbersystemforhispatients.It’snotasiftheywouldberequiredtodiscusstheirproblemsoutsidethisofficebeforeseeingDr.Turner.Usually,peoplegivetheirnamestoattendanydoctorandtheyareseeninconfidence.Ican’tseethereasonbehindthisidea.”Kanelookedupfromsearchingthetrashbasket.“Canyouexplain?”
“Ican,yes.”Thewomanliftedhernose.“Dr.Turnerimplementedthenumbersystembecausestudentsdidn’ttrusthimoranyoneonthefrontcounternottomakefunofthemforaskinghimforassistance.So,thenumbersystemwasintroduced.Idon’tknowthenamesofthestudentswhocomebyandneitherdoesanyoneapartfromthedoctor.”
Howconvenient.Jennalookedupfromthediary.“Whatabouttheirparents?Someonemustbepayingforthesessionsathishome.”
“I’msureIdon’tknow.”Thewomanlookedanxious.“It’snotsomethingIcancommenton,I’mafraid.”
Aftersearchingtheofficeforanyclue,note,oranythingofvaluetotheinvestigation,Jennaplacedanotepad,theappointmentbook,andafewscrapsofpaperfromthetrashintoanevidencebagandlookedatKane.“I’mgoodtogo.”Shelookedatthewoman.“Thankyouforyourassistance.”Sheledthewayoutthedoor.
Oncebackathistruck,sheturnedtoKaneandwiggledthebook.“Accordingtothis,atthetimeofJeanetteTurner’sdeath,hewashavingasessionwithpatient124.”Shepulledoutthebookandflippedthroughthepages.“Samepersonwhentheothertwomurdersoccurred.”
“Nowonderhe’ssoconfident.”ThenerveinKane’sjawtwitched.“Thelawprotectshispatients’namesandwithSamCrossashisattorney,he’llfindreasonsforeverypartofourevidence.IftheDAwillchargehim,Crosswillmakesurehegetsbailandhe’lllikelywalkaltogether.Unlesswecanfindevidencetoproveotherwise.”Hegaveheralonglook.“He’soutsmartedus,Jenna.”HeopenedthedoorforDukeandhelpedhimintothetruckandsecuredhisharness.
Jennashookherhead.“Noway.”Shesnorted.“IneverthoughtI’dseethedaywhenyoudidn’tcomeupwithanotherangletosolveaproblem.Thismysterypatientmightbethekeytosolvingthiscase.”Sheslidintothepassengerseat.
“That’swhatI’mworryingabout.I’mconvincedTurnerneededhelpcarryingJeanettedowntheapartmentstairs.”Kaneclimbedbehindthewheelandbackedoutthetruck.“Itgetsbacktogoodoldgruntwork.We’llbeabletodiscoverthenameofpatient124byaprocessofelimination.”
Staringoutthewindowbutnotregisteringanything,Jennahuggedherstomach,itwasasifithadfilledwithacid.“Ifourmysterysuspectispatient124,whywouldheriskgoingtoseekhelpfromLaurie’sfatherunlessheknewhowTurnermistreatedhiswomenfolkandfiguredhedidn’tcare?”Shethoughtforabeat.“HowwouldhegetTurneronhisside?”
“ThefirstcontacthehadwithTurnerwasmorelikelyafterBecky’smurder.”Kanestaredstraightaheadhandsgrippedtothewheel.“Laurie’smurderwasclean,asinstrangulationfrombehind.I’mnotdiscountingthepost-mortemwoundsbutlet’sjustthinkabouttheactualmurder.Patient124mighthavewitnessedthemurderandassistedwiththedisposalofthebody.Hisaccomplicelostitandtookouttheirrageonthecorpse,butthennumber124becomesinvolvedinBecky’smurderandSandy’sassault.WeknowtwopeoplewereinvolvedinBecky’smurder,someonetriedtostrangleherandI’dbetmylastdime,number124killedherwithabluntobject.Aflashlight,fromWolfe’sfindings,thesameobjectthathitSandybutmaybenotthesameflashlight.”
AsthesceneunfoldedinJenna’smind,shenodded.“Youdon’tbelievenumber124killedLaurie,doyou?”
“Nope,andthat’swhyhefeltsecuregoingtoseeTurner,heck,hecouldlikelypassaliedetectortestifheonlywatchedthemurder.He’safollower,asubordinatewhotakesordersfromsomeoneheadmires.”Kaneglancedather.“It’sawomanforsureandshecouldn’tfinishBeckyoffandorderedhimtokillher.Hewouldn’thavebeenabletorefuseher.Nowhefeelssicktohisstomach,guilty,andneedshelp.HeknowsTurnercan’tratonhimandlikelyplayedthe,‘IoverheardsomeguystalkingandI’mscaredformylife’ploytomakehimselflookinnocent.”
Excited,Jennaturnedinherseattolookathim.“ButTurnerwouldseerightthroughhim.He’dknowthepersonresponsibleforkillingBeckywassittingrightinfrontofhimandhewasboundbypatient-doctorconfidentiality.”
“Thenmaybeitcouldhavegoneeitherway.”Kane’smouthcurledintoasmile.“Turnermighthavethreatenedtoexposehimormaybepretendedtobelievehimandthenofferedhimprotectionbygiving124analibi.Hewouldhaveaskedforsomedetailsofthemurderstoprove124wasn’tlyingandthenTurnermurdershiswifeinacopycatkillingandcallsinafavor.Heasksnumber124tohelphimdisposeofthebodyofhiswife.Howcanherefuse?”Hepulledintothecurb.“Gobackthroughtheappointmentbookandlookforfirstcontactentries,especiallywhenhegavehispatientstheirnumbers.Didheusethesamepenforeveryentry?Inoticedafewinaglassonhisdesk.”
Excited,Jennaflippedthroughthebook.“No,heuseddifferentones.”Shechewedonherbottomlipasshewentbackthroughthebooktothedatesofthemurders.HerhandstrembledasshegazedupatKane.“Itlookslikeheusedthesameblackpenfortheappointmentsmadeathishomeatthetimesofthemurders.ThenotationmadeontheappointmentattheschoolafterBecky’smurder,waswhenheassignedanumbertohispatientandisinblueink.Thereisanappointmentwithpatient124atthetimeofLaurie’smurder.Ifthisiscorrecthowcomethenotesandpatientnumberarewritteninadifferentpenandonadifferentday?IfigurethedayafterBecky’smurderwasthefirstdayhespoketopatient124,andhefilledintheotherappointmentslatertocoverhisassandhisaccomplice.”
“Itmakesperfectsensetome.”Kanepulledbackoutontotheroad.“Nowallwehavetodoisdiscoverthenameofpatient124beforeanothercheerleaderisslaughtered.”
FIFTY
AfterwaitingforWolfeandWebbertoarrive,theysearchedDr.Turner’shomeandfoundnothingofinterest.Itseemedallhiscasefileswereheldinthelockedfilingcabinetattheschoolandinhisofficeinhishome.Theappointmentbookonhisdesk,didnotmakeanyreferencestoanylocalpatientsfortheentireyear,althoughthenumber124wasaddedtomatchtheappointmentsattheschool.Apartfromtheappointmentbook,theyfoundzip,notrophiesfromthemurdersorpompoms.Infact,thedoctorhadmadesurenotraceofhisdaughterorwiferemained.NophotographsandLaurie’sbedroomwasstrippedbare,itwasasifhiswifeanddaughterhadneverexisted.
AsJennalockedupthehouse,Wolfe’sphonebuzzedandshestaredathim.EmilywouldcalliftheDNAsequencerhadpulledupamatch.Heartpoundinginexpectation,shemovedtohissideashedisconnected.“WasthatEmilywiththeresults?”
“Yeah.”Wolfeturnedtoherwithapuzzledexpression.“Ihavegoodandsurprisingnews.TheDNAfoundonTurner’sringisamatchforJeanette,buthercauseofdeathwasfromacoronary.I’llgooverEmily’sfindingsbutsheknowsherstuffanditisn’tunusualforsomeonefightingfortheirlivesandsufferingstrangulationtohaveaheartattack.”Herubbedhischin.“It’snotunusualtofindadifferentCODafterweopenthemupandEmhadconcernsandranafewtests.Thebloodsamplesindicateanincreasedleveloftroponin,whichwouldbackherdiagnosis.It’sindicativeofaheartattack.”Hesighed.“She’ssendingyouthefilesnow.”
ImaginingtheterrorJeanetteTurnerwentthroughthemomentsbeforeherdeath,Jennanoddedslowly.“I’llgostraighttotheDAwithourevidenceandgetanarrestwarrantforTurner.We’llofficiallychargehimandthenIguessI’dbettercallSamCross.”ShelookedatKane.“Ican’tseehimgettingTurneroffwiththeevidencewehaveagainsthim.TheDNAistheclincher.”
“I’lldropyouattheofficeandgoandspeaktotheDA.”Kaneledthewaytohistruck.“UnlessyouwantmetospeaktoSamCross?”
JennaflungopenthedoortotheBeast.“No,Idon’twanthimtothinkI’mafraidofhim.”ShepattedDukebeforebucklingup.“Heisadamnfinelawyer,whichmakesusmorethorough,soalthoughhe’sathorninmyside,itcan’tbeabadthing.”
“Uh-huh.”KanegaveWolfeawaveandheadedbacktotown.“Istillfigurehe’sanarrogantass.”
Anhourlater,afterSamuelJCrosshadbreezedintoherofficelikeatornado,shewaitedwithKaneandJooutsideinterviewroomone.AfterdiscussingwithJothepossibilitythatTurner’sattitudetowardwomenmightleadtohisdownfallinaninterview,Kaneelectedtoremainoutside.ThediscussionbetweenclientandlawyerhadconcludedandJennaledJointotheroom.Jennaturnedontherecordingdevicesandtookaseat.Afterintroducingthemselvestorecordwhowaspresentattheinterview,Jennatookthelead.“Dr.Turner,youhavebeenreadyourrights.Iwouldliketotakeyoubacktolastnight.Wherewereyoubetweenthehoursofeightandten?”
“Athome,Ihadasessionwithoneofmypatients.”Turnerleanedbackinhisseatwithhissmallsmugsmileeverpresent.“ItisaparticularlydifficultcaseandIneededmoretime,soIconductedthesessionsathome.”
Jennaraisedaneyebrow.“Withouttheconsentofhisparents?”
“Mydear,youshouldreallyunderstandthewayofthings.”Turnerrolledhiseyes.“Theparentsofallthestudentssignawaiverthatallowsanystudentcounselingifrequired.It’ssomethingBlackRockFallsHighSchoolofferswithoutcharge.”
Althoughthereceptionistattheschoolhadsaidthiswasunusual,ifsheneededtousetheevidenceincourt,shewouldfollowupwiththeschooltofindoutiftheydidactuallypayforcounselingoutsideofschoolhoursandhowfrequently.Deepdown,shesensedhewaslying.“Okay.”JennapushedaphotographofLaurie’s1950redpickupacrossthetable.“ThisisLaurie’svehicle,oryourpickupnow,Ibelieve?”
“Yes,itlooksthesame.”Turnerfrowned.“Why?”
“It’saverydistinctivevehicleandaftercheckingtheMVDfileswefounditistheonlyoneofitskindintheseparts.CanyouaccountforitbeingparkedacrosstheroadtoJeanette’sapartmentonthenightshedied?”
“WhatproofdoyouhaveitwasDr.Turner’spickup?Thetownisteamingwithtouristsfromallover.”SamCrosstippedbackhisStetson.Theuntidycowboylawyercompletewithponytailwasastute.“Doyouhaveaphotograph,CCTVfootage,alicenseplatenumber,perhaps,oronlythedubiousaccountofsomeonewho’dbeenoutforagoodtimeatthefestival?”
Jennamethisgazewithouthesitation.“Thewitnesswasn’tintoxicatedandwehaveasignedstatement.”
“It’snotworththepaperit’swrittenon.”Crosssmiledather.“Dogoon.”
TurningherattentionbacktoTurner,JennakepthervoicesteadyunderCross’shawk-likestare.“Afterthediscoveryofthebody,themedicalexaminerconductedaforensicssweepoftheapartmentandfoundyourfingerprints.”Shepickedupastatementandwaveditinfrontofhim.“WhenweinterviewedyouafterLaurie’smurder,youstatedthatyou’dhadn’tseenyourwifeforoversixyearsandyoudidn’tknowwhereshelived.Isthatcorrect?”
“Yes,atthetimeofthestatementitwascorrect.”Turnersmiledather.“Notafterthestatement.Iwenttoseemywifetocomfortherafterourdaughter’sdeath.”
Angerrising,Jennaglaredattheself-righteousmanbeforeher.“Youtoldmeyouhatedherforleavingyou.”
“That’shearsay,Sheriffandyouknowit.”Crossleanedbackinhischair.“You’retwostrikesdown,let’sgoforthree,huh.I’dliketobehomefordinnerandthejudgewillonlyholdabailhearingbeforefive.”
Sureshecouldhitthehomerun,shetookoutacopyoftheDNAreportandsliditacrossthetabletoSamCross.“DuringJeanetteTurner’sautopsy,amarkconsistenttoabackhandedslapfromahandwearingaringwasdetected.Ifyou’lllookattheimages?Afterexecutingasearchwarrant,Dr.Turner’sringwasswabbedforDNAevidenceandtissuewasdetected.SubsequentDNAtestsrevealedamatchforJeanetteTurner.OurevidenceputsDr.Turneratthecrimesceneatthetimeofthemurderandthevictim’sDNAwasfoundonhisring.Wehaveastrongcase.”
“Youdon’t.”Turnergaveherasmugsmile.“Ihitherallthetime,that’swhysheleftme.Thatbloodcouldhavebeenthereforsixyears.ItakeofftheringwhenIwashmyhands.Youhavenothing.Iwaswithapatientanditwilltakeacourtorderforyoutodiscoverhisname.Ifyoudo,hewillconfirmmywhereabouts.”
“Ithinkthat’sstrikethree.”SamCrosswenttorise.“ThejudgeiswaitingforusforabailhearingbutyouhavenothingfortheDAtotakethistocourt.”
“Wewillbepresentingmoreevidenceasitcomestohandforhistrial—andhewillgototrial.”Jo’svoicesoundedstrongandconfident.“DNAdegradesaftertimeandDr.Wolfewillbeabletoverifyifthebloodsamplewasfresh.TheDAwillbemorethanwillingtomakeadealwiththeyoungpersonyouhavetriedtohoodwinkintoprotectingyou.I’msurewithmyreportandDr.Wolfe’sevidence,theDAwillproceed.”
“Honestly,Sheriff,youneedtocomeupwithsomethingbetterthanthatnonsense.”Turnerspreadhishandswide.“OnlyIknowthenamesofthepeoplewhocometomysessionsandtheyoungmaninquestionwouldn’tspeaktoyouanyway.I’mnotgivingyouhisnameandyoudon’thaveenoughevidenceagainstmetoobtainacourtordertoopenmyfiles.”
“TheFBIhavewaysoffindingpeople,Mr.Cross,andtrustmemyteamdoesn’tfail.”Jo’slipsflattened.“Andassmartasyoubelieveyouare,Dr.Turner,youcan’tfoolme.TrustmemanyhavetriedbutintheendI’malwaysright.”
Noddinginagreement,Jennastood.“WewillescorttheprisonertothehearingandIwillbeopposingbail.”
“Goodluckwiththat.”Crosschuckled.“Dr.Turnerisapillarofthecommunityandnotaflightrisk,Jenna.Whydoyoubotherwhenyouknowyoucan’twinagainstme?”
Jennaforcedherlipsintoasmile.“Idon’tthinkso.Iguesswe’llbelettingacourtdecide.”
FIFTY-ONE
KaneledthewayintoJenna’sofficeandwentstraighttothecoffeemachineandsetaboutmakingafreshpot.WhenJennacameinbehindhim,closedthedoor,andslammedherpaperworkfromthebailhearingonthedesk,heturnedtolookather.“Iknowyou’reangryaboutDr.TurnergettingbailbuttheDAhasn’tdroppedthecharges.Hestillbelieveswehaveenoughforhimtoproceedtotrial.”
“That’sifwecanproduceenoughnewevidence.”Jennadroppedintoherchairandstaredintospace.“Doyouthinkit’stoolatetoaskWolfetore-checktheDNAsamples?”Shechewedonherbottomlip.“Lately,hegetsnotimeatalltospendwithhisgirls.”
Turningtoleanagainstthecounter,Kaneshookhishead.“Nah,they’reusedtohimbeingatwork.Whenthecaseloadislight,hespendstonsoftimewiththem.Callhim.”Hestraightenedandheadedforthedoor.“Whatweneedtodoistofindpatient124.WeknowheisastudentatthehighschoolandDr.Turnerreferredtohimas‘theyoungman’.”
“Yeah,hetrippedupthere,didn’the?”Jennaheldupahand.“Waitup.JoisconvincedTurnerisasguiltyashellbutfornow,we’llleavetheevidencefindingtoWolfe.Weneedtoconcentrateonthecheerleadermurdersandfindoutthenameofpatient124.I’mconvincedDr.Turnerhassomethinghe’sholdingoverhimand124isthekeytounlockthemysteryofthemurders.I’vekeptJoandCarterintheloopandJoisgoingtodiscussthecasewithCarterandseewhattheycandotohelp.”
“I’llaskRioifhecandosomeovertimetonightandassistusaswell.Wecan’taskJake.”Kaneturnedtofaceherandplacedbothpalmsonthetable.“Iagreewithyourfindings,patient124hastobeinvolvedinthecheerleadermurdersandisthepersonwhohelpedcarryJeanetteTurnerdownthestairs.Ifigurewestartlookingatguysonthefootballteam.It’smorethanlikelyit’soneofthem,assomeoneclosetotheteamwasstealingtheirunderwear.Ifsomeonehadbeenhangingaroundthelockerroom,IfigureWyattCooperwouldhavesaidsomething.Guysnoticeifsomeoneiswatchingthem,especiallyinalockerroom.”
“Weonlyhavelistsofstudentswhowereatthefestival.”Jennastoodandwenttothecounterandpulledoutcups.“Theywereallovertownatdifferenttimes.Whatdataareyouplanningtouse?”
Kanesmiled.“It’snotwhowasthere,Jenna.It’swhowasmissing.”Hewalkedtothedoorandpulleditopen.“Zacislikeacomputerandhecandothingsmuchfasterthaneitherofusbecausehisbrainworksdifferently.YoucallWolfeandI’lltalktoZac.”
“Getatit.”Jennapulledoutherphone.
Kaneheadedtothedeputiessittingintheirbooths,bothreadingtheautopsyresults.“Hey,Ineedalistofthemembersofthehighschoolfootballteam.I’dliketorunacomparisonagainstourfilestoseeifanyonewasmissingfromthegroupintownonWednesdaynight.”HelookedatRowley.“Idon’texpectyoutoworkback,Sandyisyourpriorityrightnow.”
“Shehatesthefoodatthehospital.”Rowleyfrowned.“I’mguessingthey’lllethercomehometomorrow.I’llgrabhersometakeoutandspendsometimewithherandthencomebackifyouneedme.She’shappytowatchTVandsleeprightnow.”
“Idon’tknowhowlongthiswilltake.SpendtimewithSandyandI’llcallyouifallhellbreaksloose.”KaneturnedtoZac.Theyoungdeputyhadhisownresponsibilitiesathomeaswellandthey’dworkaroundthemifnecessary.“Arethetwinsokaywiththehousekeeper?”
“They’resixteenandyeah,Mrs.Jacobshasatonguelikeawhip.”Zacchuckled.“She’llmakesurethey’reokay.Theyunderstandmyhoursaren’tpredictable.I’llcallandtellthemI’llbelate.”HesmiledatKane.“You’llhavehorsestotendaswell.”
“I’llgoandtendthehorses.”CarterwalkedupbehindKaneandslappedhimontheback.
Kanesuckedinabreathashiswoundscreamedinprotestbuthedidn’treact.HeturnedtoCarterandsmiled.“Ithoughtyou’dcometohelpwiththecase.”HebenttopatZorro,Carter’sdog
“I’vereadoverwhatyou’vegotsofarandIdomybestfiguringaroundhorses.”Cartermovedatoothpickacrosshisgrin.“I’dasktotakeyourridebutJenna’swilldoaswell.I’mguessingyoudon’thaveaportabledevicetodisableyouralarmsystemandopenthegate?”
“Nope.”Kaneshookhishead.“Itwouldbetooeasytomisplace.Jenna’sinheroffice,askherforthekeystohercruiser.”Heglancedathiswatch.“GrabsometakeoutonthewaybackfromAuntBetty’s.It’sgoingtobealongnight.Putitonthedepartment’stab.”
“Sure.Catchyoulater.”CarterstrolledintoJenna’soffice.HefollowedJennaoutashorttimelaterandheadedforthedoor,whistlingwithZorrowalkingclosetohisside.
“Bringyourthingsandworkinmyoffice.”Jennaturnedbackandsatbehindherdesk.“Helpyourselftocoffee.”ShelookedatKane,pulledajarofcookiesfromherbottomdrawer,andpushedthemtowardhim.“IcalledWolfeandheisprettysuretheskinandbloodheusedtoextracttheDNAarefreshbutheisgoingtopreparecomparisontissuesamplesthatwillholdupincourt.”Shesighed.“He’llcallbackinanhourorso.HealsomentionedsearchingforTouchDNA.”
Kanepouredcoffee,addedthefixings,andsatdown.“Yeah,I’vebeenreadingaboutthatprocess,nowWolfeisabletoextractDNAfromfingerprintsonanything,includingskin.Ifigurehe’llseeifhecanfindanytraceofDr.Turner’sDNAonhiswife’sface.Heslappedherthat’sforsure.”
“I’mawareofTouchDNAaswell.”Zacpouredacupofcoffeeandtookittothedesk.Hesatdown.“Everyone’sskinlosescellsandthenewprocessidentifiesthemastraceDNA,soreallywe’reallsheddingskinlikedandruffanddon’tknowit.”Hesmiled.“Inprincipleapersoncouldshakehandsandthentakeaknifeandmurdersomeone.ThenewprocessmightfindtracesofDNAfrombothpartiesonthehandle.Iwonderifit’sgoingtomakeDNAevidencehardertoprove?”
Kaneshrugged.“I’msuretheforensicsteamwillbeabletodistinguishbetweendeadskinflakesandtheoilfoundinfingerprintsorfreshbloodbutIguessitcouldmakeacaseforreasonabledoubt.”
“Ah,Sheriff.”Rowleysteppedintotheoffice.“I’veaddedthenamesofthefootballteamtoyourfilesandthelatestteamimages.I’vealsoaddedtheimagesofthecheerleadingsquadandnamesaswell.”
“Thanks.”Jennasmiledathim.“Yes,theydoseemtohangouttogether.Thanks,Jake.It’sfive-thirty.You’dbetterheadhome,ortothehospital.GiveSandymybest.”
“Willdo.”Rowleybackedoutthedoor
Kanesentinformationtotheprinteranditwhirredandchugged,spewingoutdocuments.“I’vemadehardcopiesofthelists.Itwillbeeasieraswedon’thaveBobbyKalotorunthemthroughoneofhisprograms.”Hestoodandwenttotheprinter.“Whoismissingfromthelists?”Hehandedthemaround.
“FromwhatIrecall,everyonereturnedtothegymafterLauriewentmissing.”Jennastaredatthesheetsofpaper.“Thatwasaspecificquestion.Weallaskedifpeoplerecalledanyonemissing.”ShetappedthesheetsintoapileandlookedatKane.“ThatwasaquestionRowleyaskedeachkidatthehighschoolaswell.NotallofthemcouldrememberWyattCooperbeingwiththemallthetimebecausetheybrokeintogroupsandsomeofthemhadtheirgirlfriendswiththem.”
“Hmm,soWyattCooperisamaybe?”Zacwasscanningthelistsbackandforthandliftedhishead.“IfyouonlyconcentrateonthenightswhenthemurdersofBeckyPowellandJeanetteTurnertookplace,wecancondensethemissingpeopledowntoafewpossibilities.”Hepointedtotheimages.“Theguysmovedaroundtownmainlyintwosorthreesandsomehadgirlswiththem.WeknowWyattCooperandBeckyPowellaremissingattimesduringbothnightsandmovedbetweengroupsoffriends.Ifyoulookatthecheerleaders,wehavetwogirlsnotmentionedaftertheinitialsightingsbeforeeightonbothnights,VernaHughesandMarleneMoore.”
Kaneleanedoverthelists.“IfVernaHugheswasintown,she’dhavebeentherewithCory,herbrother.Wehavetwosightingsofthepairofthemonbothnightsandtheyseemtohangouttogether.Vernaisaverydominantpersonalityandhasissueswiththeothercheerleaders.Shedoesn’ttrytohideherdislikeofpeople.”HelookedupatJenna.“TheylivewiththeirmotherandCory’sfatherleftnotlongaftertheyhadadoptedVerna.It’snotastableenvironment,theycouldslipnicelyintooursuspects’profiles.”
“I’vefoundonemovingaroundaswell.”Jennatappedthephotograph.“DaleCollins,thequarterback.Rememberhim?Herunsthekioskatthegymforhisauntoncheerleaderpracticedays.”Sheranherfingerdownthelistsofpeopletheotherplayersrememberedbeingwithonthenightofthemurders.“Hewasthereandthennotmentioned.Hecould’veslippedaway,murderedBecky,andthengonebacktohisfriends.”Shecombedfingersthroughherhair.“HewaschattingtoMarleneMooreandLaurieatthegymifyouremember.”
“He’sthequarterback.”Rioleanedbackinhischairandgrinned.“Ifhelookedlikeadog,thegirlswouldstillthinkhe’sacatch.ThefewI’veknownhavesharedthelovearound.Hecouldhavebeenwithanynumberofgirlsatthefestival.He’dbeverypopular.”
“Yes,Idorememberhighschool.”Jennasighed.“Thevehiclesseenatthecrimescenesorinvolvedarealldifferent.Ifwecouldjustfindasinglelink,we’dcatchpatient124.”
Kanesmiled.“Byprocessofelimination,we’vecutthelistdowntofivepossiblebutIstilldon’ttrustStanWilliams.Hewouldhavebeenfloatingaroundtown.Hehasimagesinhisapartmenttakenatnightduringthefestival.”
“So,ashortlistofsix.”Jennasippedhercoffee.“Allhearsay.”ShestaredatKane.“Let’skeepdigging.Iwanttoknoweverythingaboutthesepeople,family,parents’occupations,andwhatgrandmacookedfordinnerlastSunday.Getatit.”
FIFTY-TWO
AcooleveningbreezedriftedthroughthewindowofhistruckasheslidintoaspaceoppositeAuntBetty’sCafé.HisheartpickedupandracedatthesightofVickyPerezsittinginthewindow,staringatherphone.He’dofferedhersupperbutshe’dnevereatherlastmealandafterhisgirlhadfinishedwithher,Vickywouldbeunrecognizable.Hescrubbedbothhandsdownhisfaceandthenslappedhimself.Terrorandexcitementmingled,likeaneviltwintearinghiminalldirections.Avoiceinhisheadkeptnagginghimthatwatchinghisgirlkillwaswrong,buthepusheditawayandembracedtheinsatiablehungerthatroareditsapproval.
Becominghisgirl’spuppethadhappenedslowlyandnowhewastrappedinherweb,likeablackwidow’swillingmatewaitingtobeeaten.Shebothscaredhimyetfascinatedhimandhecravedtobewithher.Themurdershaddraggedhimclosertoherandexcitementthrummedthroughhimwhenevershewasnear,butdidhetrusther?Wouldhebeherfinalvictim?He’dseenhereyeswhenshekilled,alwayshungryformore.Anice-coldshiverrandownhisbackandchillbumpscrawleduphisarms.Heshookhishead.“No,Idon’ttrustyou.”
Worriedbyspeakingaloudshemighthearhimeventhoughshewasmilesawaymakingthebarnready,helookedaroundandthenpulledouthisphone.He’dbeenlateonpurposeanddeepdowninsidewishedVickyhadn’twaitedforhimtoarrivebuthisgirlhadsetthesceneandhehadnochoicebuttoactitout.Hestaredatthecheapphone,whichonlycontainedVicky’snumber.AfterwatchingthecopshowsonTV,heunderstoodhoweasyitwasforthesherifftoobtainphonerecordsandhe’dinsistedonusingaburnerforthispartoftheplan.He’dcalledVickytomakeadateandthey’dspokenoftenoverthelasttwenty-fourhours.He’dexplainedabouthisstalkerandtheneedtokeeptheirmeetingsecret.Hesmiled.Ithadbeensoeasytoconvincethegirlstodohisbidding.Theywerejustlikehisgirlsaidthey’dbe,willingtogowithhimjusttohumiliatehim—buttheynevergotthechance.
Hebuzzeduphiswindowandmadethecall,watchingVickythroughAuntBetty’swindow.“Hey,Vicky,sorryfornotcallingsooner.”Heletoutabreathonasigh.“MymaredecidedtodropherfoalandIwantedtomakesureshewasokay.I’moutsideintheredpickupbutI’mnotdressedforadate,beinginthebarnandall.”
“Afoal?CanIseeit?”Vickystaredoutthewindowandthenwavedmadly.“Iseeyou.”
HisgirlhadtoldhimaboutVicky’sinfatuationwithhorsesandtheplanhadworked.Helookedathereagerfaceandsmiled.“Sure.YoucanadmireherwhileIgogetcleanedup.”
“It’safilly?”Vickyheadedforthedoor.“You’llbekeepingher?”
Hechuckled.“Sure.Ilikefillies.Hangupnow,beforeatruckmowsyoudowncrossingtheroad.”Hedisconnected,pulledoutthebattery,openedhisdoor,andslidtheburnerintoadrain.
Asthedooropened,henoticedherstaringattheplasticsheetingcoveringtheseats.Hegrinned.“I’mguessingyou’rewonderingabouttheplastic?Theseatsweresteamcleanedandarealittledamp.Ididn’twantyougettingallmessedup.”
“You’resothoughtful.”Sheclimbedintothepassengerseatmakingtheplasticcrackleandcreak.“Ican’tgettotheseatbelt.”Shefrowned.
Heshrugged.“It’sonlyamileorsoandmostofthatonbackroads,you’llbefine.”Hegaveherhisbesthangdogexpression.“Iwastryingtomakeitniceforyou.DarncarwashwasbusysoIusedmyma’ssteamcleaner.”
“It’sokay.”Vickysqueezedhisarm.“Maybewecanhavesupperinthebarn?CookiesandmilkwilldomejustfinebutrememberImustbebackatAuntBetty’sCafébyeight-thirtyormypawillgonuts.”
Henodded.“Yeahsure.”
Unabletobelievehisluck,heheadeddownMainandontothehighwaybeforeturningoffStantontofollowthebackroadstohisfamily’sranch.Thebarnhadn’tbeenusedforyearsandsatsolidbutabandonedsomewaysfromthehouse.Noonebuthisgirlandhimwentthere,itwastheirsecretplace.Heturnedontheradioandhummedtothetunes.BesidehimVickystaredathimasifmesmerized.Theybumpedalongthedirtroad,roundedthecorner,andhisheadlightspickedoutthebarn.Hepulledupoutsideandtakingaflashlightfromhisjacketpocketslidfrombehindthewheel.“Mindyourstepnow.”Heaimedtheflashlightatthedoorandthenheartpoundingwithanticipation,rolleditback.
“It’sawfuldarkinthere.”Vickygrabbedhisarmandleanedinclose.
“Here,youtaketheflashlight.”Hewavedherthroughthedoor.“There’salampjustinside,I’llswitchiton.Headdownthebackpastthehayloft,themareisdownthereontheleft.”
“Okay.”Vicky’svoicetrembledbutshemovedaheadofhim.
Vickyhadn’twalkedmorethanafewyardsintothebarnbeforehisgirlsprangoutofthedark,withascarfwrappedaroundherface.Ithappenedsofastthatinthenextsecond,hisgirlwasonVicky’sback.Theyfellhardontothedust-coveredfloorinatangleoflimbs.Momentslaterhisgirlhadaclothpressedoverthestunnedgirl’sface.TheflashlightspilledfromVicky’shandsandabeamshoneoverthem,sendinghugeshadowsacrossthebarnwall.Achemicalsmellfilledtheairandhecoveredhisfaceandbackedaway.Thecouplerolledonthefloorgrunting.Vickywasfightingbackbutassoonassheweakened,hisgirlknottedtheclotharoundherface.ItseemedtotakeforeverbeforeVickyfinallysuccumbedandfellsilent.
Hefoundthelanterninsidethedoorandswitchediton.Dustmotesdancedlikegoldenraininthepooloflight.HestaredatVicky;herclotheswerecoveredindustandsticksofhaystuckinherhair.Hedraggedhisgazeawayandlookedathisgirl.“Issheout?”
“Ithinkso.”HisgirlpinchedVickyhardandwhenshedidn’trespond,sherifledthroughherpocketsandcameoutwithherphone.Shestoodandwalkedtowardhim.Shepoppedopenthephone,tookoutthebatteryandSIM,anddroppedthemintoabucketofwater.“Thechloroformwillevaporatesoon,stayoutside,wehavetimebeforeshewakesup.”
HestaredatVicky,lyingsostill.“Toomuchwillkillher.”
“Notenoughandshe’llwakeuptoosoon.Ipracticedonmydog.Afewdropsknockedhimsillyforagoodfiveminutes.”Hisgirlremovedthescarf,tieditaroundherwaist,andleanedinclose.“We’llhavetimetotieherupanddragherintothestallI’vesetupforourfun.ThistimeI’vestapledplasticsheetingallaroundthewallsandovertheground.”Shegavehimasatanicgrinandretrievedahuntingknifefromthebench.“Doyoulikethis?”
Chillbumpscrawleduphisarmsashestaredatthepristineknife.FlashesofhisgirlstabbingLauriespunthroughhismind.Thistimetherewouldbeblood,lotsofblood.Heswallowedhardandtriedtofocus.Thingsweremovingwaytoofastandhecouldn’tthinkstraight.“Itlooksbrandnew.”
“Itcouldbe.”Hisgirlwaveditaround.“Itookitfromaguy.”
Heblinkedather.“Youdidwhat?Areyoucrazy?”
“Nope,itwasinacrowdatthefestival,Ijustslippeditoutofhisbelt.He’dbeendrinkingtoomuchtofeelathing.Neat,huh?”SheturnedaroundtolookatVickyandthenpulledherT-shirtoverhernose.“Helpmedragherintothestall.Ihaveeverythingready.”Shegavehimaslowgrin.“Thenwe’llwaitforhertowakeup.Idon’twanthertomissathing.”
FIFTY-THREE
Jennastood,clearedthetakeoutwrappersfromherdesk,andsetupthecoffeemachineagain.KaneandRiohadtheirheadsbentovertheirlaptops,andtheprinterwaswhirringandspittingoutdocumentsatanincrediblerate.SheheardthefrontdooropenandthesoundofclawsontileandthenextmomentDukecamethroughthedoor,checkedKanewasstillwherehe’dlefthim,andthenwentintohisbasket,didhisusualthreeturns,andfloppeddown.FootstepscamedownthepassagewayandCartercamethroughthedoorwithZorroonhisheels.Jennawavedahandtowardthedesk.“Yourlaptophasbeenchiming,Ifigureyouhaveamessage.”
“Ihopeso.IsentsomeinformationtoKalointhehopehemightfindsomethingofinterest.”Carterwalkedtohislaptopandsmiled.“Uh-huh.”
Jennadroppedintoherchairandlookedathim.“Whatdidhehuntdownforus?”
“Interestingleads.”Carterremovedatoothpickfrombetweenhisteethandflickeditintothetrash.“IhadKalochecktheIRSdatabaseformissinginformationontwoofthesuspects.HediscoveredthecurrentoccupationsofthefathersofDaleCollinsandCoryHughes.Afterthevagueinformationwereceivedfromtheirex-wives,Ifigureditmightberelevantinformation.Mr.CollinsisacarsalesmanandMr.Hughesisalinesman.”
“DidheworkwhereLaurieTurnerwasfound?”Kanelookedupfromhislaptop.
“Theverysameplace.”Cartersmiled.“Howaboutthatforacoincidence?”
“Yeah,butAlWatsonwastheonlypersonworkingthedayLaurieTurnerwasfound.”Rioleanedbackinhischair.FromwhatIknowaboutCoryHughes,hispaisn’tlivingwiththemanymore.Idon’tbelieveit’srelevanttothecase.”
“Whenwehavezip,everythingisrelevant.”Carterlookeddownhisnoseathim.“Thinkaboutit.IfCoryorVernavisitedtheirpa,hemighthavetoldthemaboutwherehe’dbeenworkingandwhy.Hecould’vementionedalltheoldminesintheareaandhowisolateditisthere.”HetippedbackhisStetsonandnarrowedhiseyes.“Howelsewouldkidsknowaboutthemines?It’snotaplacethey’dgoforapicnic,isit?”
“Iguessnot.”Riostood,wenttotheprinter,andsortedthroughthedocuments.“WeseemtobeavoidingWyattCooper.Whyisthat?”Hemadeneatpilesandhandedthemaround.
Jennashrugged.“I’mnotconvincedit’shim.Whyplacehimselfinthespotlightfromtheget-gobystuffinghisshortsinLaurie’smouth?Ifigureweneedtoconcentrateontheothers.”
“Okay.”Rioranhisfingersoverthedocuments.“Thesearethetimelinesofeveryoneinvolvedbasedontheevidencewehavetodate.”
“Wecouldeasilyhaveusedthesplitscreenonourlaptops.”Carterstaredatthepaperworkwithabewilderedexpression.
“Sometimesoldschoolworks.”Rioshrugged.“Ourbrainsgetusedtothesameformat.Changeitupandthingsstarttopopout.Giveitatry.”
WhenJenna’sphoneplayedWolfe’sringtone,theyalllookedatherexpectantly.Sheputherphoneonspeaker.“Hi,Shane,anynews?”
“Yeah,thesamplesfromtheringarefresh.Ididn’thavemuchtoworkwithbutthere’snodoubt,theskinsampletrappedinthering,camefromthenightofMrs.Turner’smurder.ItseemsDr.Turnerremoveshisringwhenhewasheshishands.Ifoundnotracesofsoapatall.TheDNAitselfhadn’tbrokendown,thattakesyearssothedecompositionrateoftheskinsamplewascrucial.I’vecompletedacomparisonofthetissuesfoundandthosecollectedfromherbody.Therateofdecompositionfromthebodyandthesampletakenfromtheringisidentical.”Wolfetappedawayonhiskeyboard.“IalsofoundtracesofDr.Turner’sDNAonhiswife’scheekwhereheslappedherandonherneckaroundthefingerprintsduringthestrangulation.It’sconclusiveevidencethatTurnerstrangledhiswife.I’llmakeitprettyandsendittotheDA.”Heclearedhisthroat.“I’llsendyouacopy.Goodwork,guys,yougothim.”
JennasmiledandthenhermindwenttoLaurieandBecky.“Butunlesswefindpatient124,wecan’ttiehimintothecheerleadermurders.Theirkillerisstillwalkingfree.”
“Turnerisstillgoingtotryandwriggleoutofmurderinghiswife.”Kanelookedather.“Thereisawayadoctorcangiveupthenameofhispatientsinacriminalcase.Ittakesacourtorderandhehastoinformthepatient.”Heshrugged.“He’llhavetogoseehim,won’the?Well,wehaveaBlackwaterdeputywatchinghisproperty.Hisvehiclehasn’tlefthishomeyetbutwhenShane’sevidenceispresented,Ibethe’llmakehismoveandthenwe’llfindthenameofpatient124.”
“I’vehunteddownanychanceofTurnerbeinginvolvedwiththeothermurdersbutfoundnothing.”Wolfesighed.“JeanetteTurner’smurderwasacopycat.Turnerwassloppy,heleftfingerprintsanddidn’ttrytodisguisehispresenceonscene.Intheothercases,thekillersleftlittlebehind.”
“HaveyouhadanythingbackfromtheSnapshotDNAProfilingSystem?”Kanestood,stretchedouthistallframeandheadedforthecoffeepot.
“Ishouldgetsomethingsoon.”Wolfesoundedpleased.“Theinformationcouldbustthecasewideopen.”
Jennasmiled.“Isurehopeso.Callmeassoonasyouhavesomething.”
“Isurewill.”Wolfedisconnected.
Jenna’sphonechimedagainandshepulledaface.“Oh,greatthat’sallweneed,a911emergency.”Sheacceptedthecall.“You’vereachedSheriffAlton,whatisyouremergency?”
“ThisisTonyPerez.I’mconcernedaboutmydaughter,Vicky.IdroppedheratAuntBetty’sCafétohavesupperwithafriend.ItoldherI’dbebytocollectherateight-thirty.She’snotthereandshe’snotpickingupherphone.”
Jennamadeswiftnotesandglancedupattheothers.Itwasnine-thirty.“Didshementiongoinganywhereelse?”
“NobutIspoketothatphotographerguyandhesaidshegotarideinaredpickup.Hecan’trecallthetime.”Perezsuckedinalongbreath.“SinceLaurie’smurder,we’vebeentakingVickyanywheresheneededtogoandcollectingherataspecifiedtime.Isettherules,andshewasn’ttogoanywherewithouttellingus.Shealwaysanswersherphone,it’sneveroutofherhands.Something’shappenedtoher.”
“ThisisSpecialAgentCarterFBI.Givemeyourdaughter’sphonenumberandI’llgetsomeonetorunitdown.”Carterpickedupapenandtookdownthedetails.HestoodandwentoutintothehallwaytocallBobbyKalo.
Jennacouldhearthemuffledconversation.“Thephotographeryouspoketo,wouldthatbeStanWilliams?”
“Yeah,that’shim.Hehangsaroundthecheerleadingsquadtakingtheirpicturesallthetime.”Perezsuckedinadeepbreath.“Look,Sheriff,mywifehascalledallVicky’sfriends.NotoneofthemknowsanyoneapartfromLauriewitharedpickupandyetWilliamstoldme,shewavedatthepersonandranouttomeetthem.Hedidn’tseewhowasinsidethetruck.I’matalosstoknowwhattodo.I’vebeenwaitinghereincaseshecomesback.Ididn’twanttowaitanylongerbeforeIcalledyou.NotinBlackRockFallswithakillerontheloose.”
“Youdidtherightthing.Couldyouholdtheline,Mr.Perez?Ineedtospeakwithmydeputies.”ShelookedatRioandKane.“RunoursuspectsandfamilymembersthroughtheMVDandlet’sseeifanyoneelseownsaredpickup.”Sheunmutedthephone.“DidWilliamsmentionamake,ormodel?”
“Nopebuthe’sstillinside.I’llgoaskhim.”
Jennawaitedchewingontheendofherpen.Thesoundofcomputerkeyboardstappingwastheonlysoundintheroom.Photographersbeingobservant,itwaslikelyWilliamswouldrecallthemakeatleast.ShesighedwithreliefwhenMr.Perezcamebackontheline.“Yes,I’mhere,Mr.Perez.”
“HefiguresmaybeaDodgeRam.”
WhenbothKaneandRioshooktheirheads,anoverwhelmingsenseoffailuresweptoverJenna.“Okay,staywhereyouare,I’llgetasearchorganizedandsendsomeonetoyourlocationtowaitwithyou.”ShedisconnectedandcalledinoldDeputyWalters,wholivedcloseby,toheadouttoAuntBetty’s.Shelookedatthethreemenbeforeher.“Rio,getamediareleaseout,nowforamissinggirl,youknowthedrill.”
“Sure.”Riostoodandheadedforhisdesk.
AphonerangandCartertookhisphonefromthedesk.“It’sKalo.”Hestaredatthewhiteboard.“Whathaveyougotforme,Bobby?”Helistened.“Uh-huh.Didyoutracethenumber?Okaythanks.”Hedisconnected.“Thelastcallshereceivedwasfromthesamenumberasfourpreviouscallsinthelasttwenty-fourhoursorso.ThenumberisfromaburnerandVicky’sphoneisinoperative.IfigureVickyhasbeentargetedasthenextvictim.”
FIFTY-FOUR
Nauseousandgiddy,Vickyforcedhereyelidstoopen.Shecouldn’tliftherheadandsomethingwasstuffedinsidehermouth.Herfacehurt.Hercheekstungasifsomeonehadslappedherrepeatedly.Thememoryofbeingattackedfloodedthroughhermindonatidalwaveoffear.Shewantedtoscreambutrememberedherfather’swordsafterLauriewastaken.He’dtoldherifshewaseverkidnapped,toremainascalmaspossible,thatcrazypeoplefedonfear.Ifshekeptherhead,there’dbeachanceshe’dstayalivelongenoughforsomeonetosaveher.Ithadbeeneasyforhimtosaythat,hewasn’ttiedupinabarn.Panicroseinarushatthesensationofbeingtiedhandandfoot.Sheclenchedhermusclesbutfoundnogiveagainstthethickblacktapebindingher.Againstherhands,sherecognizedtheslickfeelofplastic.Thedimhalf-lightfromabattery-operatedlanternclosebyreflectedinthesheetsattachedtothewalls.Ice-coldfearwrappedaroundher.She’dseenenoughhorrormoviestoknowtheywereholdingherinamurderroom.Whenthesoundofpeoplearguinginwhispersdriftedfromoutsideherprison,shelistenedintentlywatchingfrombeneathherlashes.
“Itoldyouyou’dgivenhertoomuch.”Themuffledmalevoicewasaccompaniedbyfootstepsastheycameintothestall.“She’sbeenheretoolong.Weshouldhavefinishedherbynow.Whynotjuststrangleherandwe’lldumphersomewhereinStantonForest?”
“Afterwhatsheputmethrough?”Agirl’svoiceshethoughtsherecognizedsoundedangry.“Iwanthertopay.There’snowayshe’sgonnasleepthroughherpunishment.I’mgoingtomakeherfeeleverycut.”Shelaughedastheywalkedintothestall.“Seethis?It’ssalt.I’mgoingtofillhercutswithittomakethemunbearable.”Shechuckledagain.“Ifoundsulfuricacidontheshelfbutthatstuffstinks,sothesaltwillhavetodo.”Shewetherlips.“I’llletyoucuthertoo.Didyoubringaknifeaswell?”
“Yeah.Mypa’shuntingknife.Hewon’tmissit.Henevercomesbythehousenomore.”Hepulledouttheknifeandwaveditather.
“Perfect.”Shestrokedhischeek.“Now,trytowakeheragain.Slapher,she’sgottocomearoundsoon.Ididn’tusethatmuchchloroform.”
“IfIhitheranyharder,I’llbreakherjaw.”Hesoundedconcerned.“I’llgetabucketofwaterandthrowitoverher.”
“No!”Thegirlwasobviouslyincharge.“Thenthebloodwillruneverywhere,weneedtokeepitcleaninhere.Slapheragain.I’mgoingtogetabottleofwaterfrommybackpackandIwantherawakebythetimeIgetback.”Sheflickedazippolighter.“Ihavesomethingelsetotryifyoucan’twakeher.”
Heartthreateningtoburstwithfear,Vickyremainedslumpedagainstthewallwithherheadonherchest.Footstepscamecloserandsomeonewearingsurgicalglovescuppedherchin,andliftedit.Fightingtheneedtopullaway,sheforcedherbreathinginandout,inandout,slow,andeven.Likewhenshewasakidandpretendedtogotosleep.Histouchwasalmosttender.
“Vicky,wakeupnow.”Hepattedhercheek.“Pleasewakeup,Idon’twanttohityouagain.”
Hedidn’twanttohitheragain?Didshehaveanallyagainsttheravinglunaticplanningtocuther?Painslicedthroughhercheekandshetoppledover,rollingontothefloorfromanunexpectedblow.Herheadhitwithablindingcrackandshecouldn’tmuffleamoan.Draggedbackintoasittingposition,thickfingersforcedhereyelidopenandshestaredintothefaceofherdatebutdroppedherheadthemomenthereleasedher.Ifthegirlwantedherawakebeforeshecuther,she’dplaypossumforaslongasshecould.Herpawouldhavediscoveredshewasmissingbynowandsomeonewouldhaveseenhergettingintohistruck.
“Wakeup.”Heshookherviolently.“You’rejustmakinghermad.Thelongeryoustayunconsciousthemaddershe’llgetandshe’lltakeitoutonyou.”
“MakingnicewithVicky,huh?”Thegirl’svoicewasassweetasmolasses.“NowI’mjealous.”Shemovedcloser,makingtheplasticrustlewitheachstep.
HerbreathbrushedVicky’sfaceandthenacoldlineflashedacrosshercheek.Arushofwarmthoozeddownherfaceandshecouldfeeldropletshittingherbarearm.Hadshecuther?
“Notsoprettynow,isshe?”ThegirldraggedbackVicky’shead.“Isshe?”
“Ineversaidshewaspretty.”Hisvoicewasalittleshaky.“Ijustwantedherawakesowecouldkillherandthenmakeoutbeforewedumpherbody.”Hegaveahesitantlaugh.“It’sonlyeverbeenyou.You’remygirl,theothersmeannothingtomeandneverwill.”
“Thatisn’ttheplan.”ShekickedthebottomofVicky’sboots.“IwantherawakewhenIcutherintopieces.Iwanttohearherbegforherlife.Sheneedstoknowwhatit’sliketobebullied.Nowherlittlecircleoffriendsaredeadandwhenshe’sgone,I’llbethecaptain.”
“You’llbethecaptainnowanyway.”Hisvoicedroppedtoalmostawhine.“Let’sgetthisdonebeforewe’remissed.It’sgettinglate.”
“MyfolksthinkI’minmyroomandyourmathinksyou’redoingyourchoressowehaveallthetimeIneed.”Shegiggled.“She’llwakeupsoon.”ShemovedclosetoVicky’sear.“WakeupsoIcankillyou.”
DreadslammedintoVicky.Timewasrunningoutfastandnooneknewshe’dleftthesafetyofAuntBetty’sCaféwithhim.Herallywasagutlesscoward.He’dinsistedonsecrecyandnowsheknewwhy.They’dtiedhersotight,shecouldn’tfightback,andiftheydiscoveredshewasawakethey’dtortureherslowly.Tosurviveshehadtooutsmartthem.Thesewerethepeoplewho’dkilledherfriendsandexpectedhertoscreamandfightbutshewouldn’tgivethemthesatisfaction.Angerroseandshatteredinterror.Vickybitdownhardontheclothinhermouthinanefforttoappearunconscious.Shecouldn’tkeepupthepretenseforever.Herfacethrobbedandbeneathhereyelashesshecouldseeblooddrippingontoherarm.Anuncontrollabletremblerippledthroughher.Hadtheyseenit?Shebracedherselfwaitingfortheinevitable.I’mgoingtodieinaworldofpain.
FIFTY-FIVE
RemainingcalmwhentheworldwasgoingtohellwaspartofJenna’strainingandfatehadgivenheratleasttwopeoplewiththesameattitude.Runningaroundincircleswouldn’thelpVickyPerez.“Wehavefourmainmalesuspects,callthem.Iwanttoknowifthey’rehome.I’lltakeWyattCooper,Kane,callStanWilliams,Carter,youhaveDaleCollins,Rio,CoryHughes.Theirhomeandcellphonenumbersareinthefiles.Iwanttoknowwheretheyareandwhothey’rewith.”
JennacalledWyattCooperandfoundhimathome.Afterspeakingtobothhisparents,sheremovedhimfromtheirlist.HerdeputiesandCarterdiscoveredtwoofthefourunobtainable,theirphonesturnedoffandnotathome.“So,wehaveCoryHughesandDaleCollinsmissing.Doweknowwhattheydrive?”Shestaredattheevidenceonthewhiteboard.
“Hugheshadawhitepickupatthehighschoolbutthatmightbesupplied,hecouldhaveanothervehicle.”Kanetappedonhiscomputer.“Nothingelsebelongstohim.”
“Thatdoesn’tmeanathing.”Carterrubbedthebackofhisneck.“Kidsoftenborrowrides.Hecouldbedrivinganyone’svehicle.”Hewavedatthewhiteboard.“WhataboutDr.Turner,he’soutonbail?”
Jennamethisgaze.“IstillhavetheBlackwaterdeputiespatrollingintownandkeepinganeyeonhishome.I’llcalloneandaskthemtogoandcheckonhim.”Shemadethecall.“Heiscloseby.I’llholduntilhehaseyesonhim.”
Shewaited,forwhatseemedlikeagesbeforethedeputycamebackontheline.Shenodded.“Okay,thanks.Watchhimforabitandthencontinueonpatrol.Itwon’thurtforhimtoknowwe’retrackinghismovements.”Shedisconnected.
“Dr.Turnerisathome.”Jennastaredatthemen.“Wehaveagirloutthereindanger.Wehavetofindher.Comeon,Dave,wherewouldtheytakeagirltomurderher?”
“I’dimaginesomewhereclosetohome.Atsixteentheywouldn’trisktakingherintotheforest.”Kane’sbrowfurrowedinconcentration.“I’llsearchGoogleEarthintheirlocalareaforabandonedranchesorbusinesses.”
“Okay.”JennaturnedtoRio.“HeaddowntoAuntBetty’sandtakealookattheirCCTVfeed,seeifyoucangetatimeVickyleftandmaybealookatthevehicle.”SheturnedtoCarter.“CanyoucheckthefeedontheCCTVcamerasonMain?Youmayhitpaydirt.”
Withanodoftheirheadsbothmentookoffinahurry.JennaturnedtostareattheboardwhenWolfe’sringtonefilledtheoffice.Shesnatchedupthephoneandputitonspeaker.“Ihopeyouhavesomethingforme,Shane,wehavejustbeennotifiedofanothermissinggirl,VickyPerez.”
“Oh,Jesus.”Wolfepausedabeat.“Ihopethiswillhelp.TheSnapshotDNAProfilercamethrough.Thisisamazingtechnology.Wehaveanimageofafemale.I’msendingitthroughtoyourphonenow.Doyouhaveanythingtocompareitto?Darkhairandeyes,Caucasian?”
Astonished,Jennastaredattheimageonherphone.“Shelooksfamiliar.Kanehasafilewithrecentimagesofthecheerleaders.I’llgetstraightonit.Thanks,Shane.”
“I’mattheofficeuntillateifyouneedbackup.Callmeifyougetanything.”Hedisconnected.
“Ihavesomethingonthepossiblehideouts.”Kanelookedupfromhislaptop.“BothHughesandCollinshaveoutbuildingsontheirranches.Hugheshaswhatlookslikeanoldrun-downbuildingabouthalfamilefromthehouse.Collinshasasimilarplace.Bothcouldbeoldbarnsfromwhentheyranstock.”Hetappedawayagain.“Ihavethefilesupforthecheerleaders,showmetheimage.”
Jennasatbesidehimastheyscannedthephotographs.TheimageWolfehadsentwaslikeanidentikitpicture,notaphotograph,andshestaredatallthefaces.Somanygirlshaddarkhairandeyes.“Whatabouther,VernaHughes?”
“Yeah,it’sacloseenoughmatchforustochasedownHughes.”Kanescrolledthroughtheimages.“Andher.I’vespokentoher.ShewasatthekiosktalkingtoDaleCollins.”Hestaredatthewhiteboard.“MarleneMoore.”
Astonishedtwosimilargirlshadlinkstotwosuspects,shepickedupherphoneandcalledRio.“Getbackhere,wehavealead.”Sheheadeddownthehallwayandburstintothecommunicationsroom.“Ty,wehavetwopossiblecouples.We’llhavetosplitup.Kanefigureshehasthemostprobablelocations.”
“Letmesee.”CarterranbacktoherofficeandstaredatKane’sresults.“Yeah,it’ssecludedenoughnottobeheardandcloseenoughtohomethekidswouldn’tbemissed.”Heturnedtolookather.“Don’tcallthegirls.Youdon’twanttoalertthemwe’recoming,Jenna.Theymightdosomethingstupid.Givemethecoordinates.”
“Yeah,Iagree.”Kanepushedtohisfeet.“IfI’mrightandthegirlisthedominantpersonalityhere,anythingmighthappen.”
Jennanoddedinagreement.“Okay,wegoinsilent.WearyourliquidKevlarvests,Idon’twantanyonegettingthejumponus.”
“ThedayakidgetsthejumponmeisthedayIretire.”Cartersnorted.“ButI’llwearthevest.”
“VickyleftAuntBetty’sateight.”Rioboundedintotheroom.“Icouldn’tIDtheredtruckbutwhenIcalledinthemediareport,IputoutaBOLOonthevehicleaswellasthegirl.”
Jennanodded.“Goodwork.Ifshe’sbeengonethatlong,weneedtomoveonthisnow.”
“Whathaveyoufound?”Rioraisedhiseyebrowsinquestion.
Jennabroughthimuptodate.“Look,Idon’twantthesekidstodieinahailofbullets.Idoubtthey’llbearmedandI’dliketoknowwhat’sbehindthiskillingspree.”
“Ihearyou’reasharpshooter.”KanelookedatRio.“Howgood?”
“Damngood.”Rio’sfacewasdeadlyserious.“Idon’tkillunlessmypartnerorIareinmortaldanger.”
“Goodtohear.’Kanenodded.
“Justasasidenote.”CartereyeballedKane.“Icanshootadimeoutofthesky.Nowwe’vestatedourcreds,arewemovingbeforethiskidgetsmurderedorwhat?”HeturnedtoJenna.“I’lltaketheHughes’ranch,Rio’sSUVwon’tbenoticedsoeasy.”
Feelingthetensionbuildingup,Jennatookadeepbreath.“Okaymoveout.”ShegrabbedherphoneandcalledDeputyWaltersatAuntBetty’stoupdatehimonherprogressandthentheyheadedoutthedoortoKane’struck.
AsRio’sSUVweavedthroughthecrowdedfestivaltrafficandthenspedintothedistance,JennaslippedintoherKevlarvestandthenstrappedDukeintohisharness.Thebloodhoundwouldbeanassetandalertthemifanyonewashidingcloseby.Herheartracedassheclimbedintotheseatandbuckledup.SheglancedatKaneashepulledonhisgearwearingacombatfaceexpression.“Ihopewefindher.”
“Ifigureoneofuswill.”KaneturnedtheBeastontoMainand,lightsflashing,maneuveredthroughthetraffic.“Althoughlogicalthinkingdoesn’tusuallyapplytopsychopathicbehaviorbutthistimeit’sunderdeveloped.Ifthisisoneofthecheerleaders,she’djustbegettingstarted.”
Jennalookedathim.“ShouldIrunitpastJoforheropinion?”
“Wedon’thavetime.”KaneturnedontoStantonRoadandaccelerated.“Thiskillerisanunknownquantity,unpredictabletothemax.Shebelievesshecancontrolpeople,sowilltry,andplaytheinjuredparty.Don’tletherunderyourguard.Goingonthekillstodate,especiallytherepeatedpost-mortemstabbingofLaurieTurner,weneedtobeonourguard.Thisgirlwillstopatnothingandshedoesn’tcarewhoshehurts.”
Thetruckhurtledintothedarkness,theflashingredandbluelightsmakingtheforestlooksurreal.Aseaofredandblueglancedoverthepinesastheyspedpast,makingthedarkdepthsoftheforestflickerlikeasilentmovie.Jennadidn’thavetoexplainthattimewasagainstthem,KanewaspushingtheBeasttothelimitofsafetyathighspeed.Shecouldnevergetusedtothewayhepointedhistruckatagapbetweenvehiclesandseemedtomakeitthrough.Withherheartinhermouth,shegrippedtheseatastheyhitthestraightawayandKanepulledout.TheBeastroareditsapprovalasifithadatlastbeenfreedfromitscage.Theyflewdownthewrongsideofthehighway,passingvehiclesasiftheywerestandingstill,andthentuckedbackintothelaneastheyapproachedasweepingbendjustasaneighteen-wheelerbarreledby.
WhenJennaheardthevoiceontheGPS,sheleanedforwardandturnedofftheflashers.“Aboutfivehundredyardsontheright,thentakeasharpleftintotheroadtotheranch.”
“Copythat.”KaneslowedtheBeast.“There’sanoldbuildingsomewaysfromthehouse.Lookoutforatrackontheleft,fromthesatelliteimageitlooksovergrown.I’llturnofftheheadlightsandwe’llbeabletoseeourwaywiththeparkinglights.Ifthereissomeonehere,wedon’twanttoalertthem.”
Theybouncedalongthetree-lineddirtroadandJennasearchedforgapsthatmightleadtoatracktothebarn.Aspaceinthetreescameupandshemadeoutadirtroadleadingthroughthetrees.“Stop.IthinkIcanseetheturnoff;we’vegonepast.”
“Okay.”Kanereversedandturnedontoatrail.
Jennaleanedforwardandpeeredahead.“It’sawell-usedpath,maybethisisn’ttheplace.”
“Itlooksaboutright.Thebarnshouldbeaboutahundredyardsfromthemaintrack.Wehavetocheckthisoutandfast.Thatgirl’slifecouldbeontheline.”Kanepulledintothetrees.“Wecanwalkfromhere.”Heglancedoutthewindow.“Wewon’tneedtouseaMaglite;it’safullmoonandIcanseelikeacat.”
Jenna’sstomachflip-flopped.Goingintoanunknownsituationhadsentheradrenalinintooverdrive.Shegavehimanod.“Let’sgo.Youfirst.I’mnotplanningonwalkingintoanyspiderwebs.”
“Sure,Ijustlovespiders.”Kanegrimaced.“Sticktothepathandyou’llbefine.”
AheadofherKanemovedinsilence,Dukeheadingoutbeforehimonhisleash,andshefollowed,keepingclosetothepath.Withtreesonbothsidesofthetrack,theirboughsreachedouttotoucheachotheracrossthedivide.Moonlightspearedthroughthebranchessendingzebrashadowsacrosstheground.Shemovedinclosertothetreesandawebcaughtherhair.Shebatteditawayandthenheardamuffledscream.InfrontofherDukehadbecomearigidstatue,hacklesraised.Unnerved,JennatookastepforwardandtuggedonKane’sshirt.Shedroppedhervoicetoawhisper.“Whatwasthat?”
FIFTY-SIX
TheZippolighterclickedagainandastheflamelickedherbaretoes,Vickyscreamed,hercriesmuffledbehindtheraginsidehermouth.Unbearablepainexplodedinherfootandseemedtogrowmoreintensebythesecond.
“She’sgoodandawakenow.”TheZippoliftedandtheflamedancedinthederangedeyesofMarleneMoore.“Getbehindher.”Shediscardedthelighterandliftedaknife,wavingitaroundsoitcaughttheglowfromthelantern.“Seethis?”Shemovedcloser.“MaybeI’llcutoutyoureyes,justoneforastart.Iwouldn’twantyoutomissanyofthefun.”
TerrorconsumedVicky.Helpless,tiedup,andatthemercyoftwolunaticshellbentonkillingherslowly,shetossedherheadfromsidetosideandsquirmedontheplastic.Tearsrandownhercheeksandshefoughttobreatheasherrunningnosethreatenedtoblockherairways.WhathadsheeverdonetoMarlenetomakeherhatehersomuch?
“Iheardsomething.”DaleCollins’handstrembledashegrabbedVicky’sshoulders.“Listen.”
“Idon’thearanythingbutherwhimpering.”Marlenegaveasatisfiedsmile.“ButIwannahearhermakethosefunnynoises.Shameaboutthegag,huh,Vicky?Noonecanhearyoubutme.”Shewavedahuntingknifeandasmallkitchenknifebackandforthinfrontofhereyes.“WhichoneshouldIusefirst?”
Vickystrainedherears.She’dheardsomethingtoo.Adogbarkingbutsomewaysaway.Itcameagain,sharpandurgent,closerthistime,butMarlenehadheardittooandshestoodtopeeraroundthestalldoor.
“It’sadog.”MarlenewhippedherheadaroundtoDale.“Yourdogdied.Knowanyonewithadogaroundthesepartswho’dbesnoopingonyourranch?”
“Nope.”Dale’svoicesoundedshaky.“Whenthesheriffspoketome,theyhadahuntingdogwiththem.Ifthey’vefoundus,whatarewegoingtodo?”
“Dousethatlightforastart.I’llgointothehayloft.Ifanyonecomesin,I’llhavethejumponthem.Theywon’tseemecoming.”Marleneranoutthedoor.“Ifit’sthesheriff,shewon’tbeexpectingkidstofightback.”
“Maybeweshouldjustlethergoandhightailitbacktoyourplace.”Dale’svoicewasahuskywhisper.“It’sherwordagainstours.Wecantakethebackroads.I’lldropyouanddumpthetruck.”
“Notachance.”Marlenesoundedconfident.“Itmightjustbeadog,chasingcrittersinthetrees.We’llwaitandsee.”
TheoldstepstothehayloftgroanedandVickycouldhearfootstepsaboveherandtotheright.ThebarkcameinthedistanceandsherolledtoonesidetolookupatDale.Hisface,litbyashaftofmoonlightthroughaskylightontheroof,wassetinagraymask,lipsturneddownatthecorners.Shelookedathimwillinghimtountieherandlethergo.
“IfIletyougo,willyoukeepyourmouthshut?”Dale’swarmbreathtickledherear.
Jumpingatthechancetogetaway,Vickynoddedandthenthemoonlightglintedovertheknifeinhishandashebentoverher.Sheheldherbreath.Voicesloudandofficialbrokethesilencefollowedbyfootfallsandasecondlater,flashlightbeamsdazzledher.
“Sheriff’sdepartment.Droptheknife.Dropthedamnknifenow.”Atallmanemergedfromthedarkness.
TheknifedroppedontotheplasticandDalewasthrownfacefirstagainstthewallandcuffedtoarail.“Whoelseishere?”ThemanhadhisbacktoVicky.“IsMarleneMoorewithyou?”
Dalesaidnothingandjustgaveashakeofhishead.
“Clearthearea,I’llcheckVicky.”Awomanbentandswitchedonthelanternonthefloorandthenturnedtoher.“It’sokay,nooneisgoingtohurtyounow.”Shekneeledbesideher.
VickyrecognizedSheriffAltonandDeputyKaneandpanicgrippedher.Shescreamedagainsttheragandtriedtoindicatetotheloftwithhereyes.
“Heycalmdown,it’sgoingtobeokay.”SheriffAltonpulledatthetapecoveringVicky’smouth.“It’sover.Sitstill,I’llhavetocutyoufree.”
Vickyshookherheadandtriedtoyelltheword“no”andtippedherheadtowardtheloft.Toolate,terrorhitherlikeatsunami.DeputyKanewaswalkingstraightintoMarlene’strap.
FIFTY-SEVEN
Marlenesmiledtoherself,howstupidlyself-confidentthedeputyhadwalkedthroughthebarn.Likemostmen,he’dallowedawomantomakedecisionsforhim.Howeasyitwastomanipulatemenandshe’dbecomeanexpert.Yeah,she’dstartedwithDalebutshehadambitions,tousementogeteverythingshewantedinlife.Shecrouchedintheshadowswaitingforthedeputytosearchthebarn,he’dturnsoonandwalkback,maybeheadforthestepsandthenshe’dlaunchherselfontohim.Hewasbig,anicewidetargetandshe’daimforhisneck.Noonecouldlivewithahuntingknifeplungedintotheirthroat.Shelookedatthetwosharpblades.Ifshemissedwithone,she’dstrikewiththeother.He’dneverexpecthertobecarryingtwoknivesandoncehewasdown,she’ddealwiththesheriff.Watchingherbleedwouldbeexquisite.
Excitementshiveredthroughherasshebreathedslowlythroughhernose.Thiswaswhatshelivedfor—thethrillofthekill.Shetookalookatthesheriff,stillbusytryingtocalmVickywhoseemedtohavegonecrazyandwasjumpingaroundlikeanidiot.Whatashame,shehadn’thadtimetowatchherdie.Herheartracedasthedeputyturnedback,checkingthestalls,andmovingthebalesofhaytopeerbehind.Injustafewmorestepshewouldbeinjusttherightposition.Heartracing,shegatheredherlegsunderher,grippedtheknives,andlaunchedfromthehayloftwithatriumphantscream.
Itwaslikehittingabrickwallassheplungedtheknifedeepintohischest.Sheheardhisintakeofbreathbutinsteadofstaggeringaway,hisarmscamearoundher,asiftobreakherfall.Shelashedout,buryingthesecondknifedeepunderhisarmandthencaughttheexpressiononhisfaceandthesightfrightenedher.Hiseyeswerecoldlikethoseofakiller—likeherown.Hehadn’treactedtoherattack.Itwaslikefightingarobot,andshecouldn’tevenslowhimdown.Suddenlyterrifiedofhim,shekickedoutbuthehadherfastinhishugehands.“Getawayfromme.”
“Nexttimeyouattacksomeone,don’tgivethemawarning.”Heglareddownather.“Stupidlittlegirl,pullingastuntlikethat,Icouldhavekilledyou.”
Tossedintothestall,MarlenescrambledtoherfeetandbackedawayasDeputyKane,withaknifeprotrudingfromhischest,steppedinandgrabbedherbythearms.Satisfactionsurgedthroughheratthesprayofcrimsonspillingdownhisarm.Shegrinnedathim.“Youlose,Deputy.You’rebleeding.”
“Youreallyneedtotryharder,ifyou’replanningtotakedownaguymysize.”Thedeputyglaredather.“You’reluckyInoticedyouwerealittlegirl.Idon’ttaketookindlytopeopleattackingme.”
Marlenelaughedathissternexpression.Oh,she’dcuthimbadandhecouldn’thandlebeingbeatenbyakid.Sheliftedherchinandglaredrightback.“Loser.Iwon’tgotojailforjumpingoutatyou,I’mjustakidprotectingmyself.Maybethey’llgivemeafineisall.Youweretrespassingonprivateproperty.”
“You’llgoformurderoneandlikelyneverseethelightofdayagain.Yousee,inthisstateyou’llbeprosecutedasanadult.Includinganassaultonapoliceofficerwithadeadlyweapon.”Hespunheraroundandturnedtothesheriff.“She’sallyours,Jenna.”
FIFTY-EIGHT
Shockedatthebloodysightbeforeher,JennagrabbedMarleneasKanesliddownthewallandslumpedontothefloor.“Dave,lookatme.”
“I’mokay,cufftheprisoner.”BloodpoureddownKane’ssideandpooledinthestraw.
Jennagapedathim.“Youdoknowyouhaveaknifestickingoutofyourchest?”
“Thatobvious,isit?ThankGodforliquidKevlarvests.”Kanegruntedandpushedintoasittingpositionandthenrestedhisbackagainstthewoodenpanelsinsidethestall.Hetouchedhissideand,afterexaminingtheblooddrippingfromhisfingers,lookedather.“It’snothing.”
TerrifiedatseeingthecolordrainfromKane’sface,butwithaprisonertosecure,JennahadnochoicebuttocuffMarlene,dragheroutsidethestall,andattachhertothesamehitchingpostasDaleCollins.Immediatelytheprisonersstartedarguing.
Jennaglaredatthem.“Shutup,thepairofyou,orI’llgaffertapeyourmouths.”ShewentbacktoKane.“I’llcalltheparamedics.”
“No,helpVicky,she’sourfirstpriority.”Kane’svoicecameoutinagasp.
Againstherbetterjudgment,Jennabitdownhardonherbottomlip.Kaneneededmedicalattentionbuttheirdutyofcaretoavictimwasapriority.ShedroppedonherkneesbesideVicky.“Okay,let’sgetyouuntied.Thecutonyourfaceisn’ttoodeep.”Shehadthegagoutofhermouthinnotimebutthetapewasstuckhardinherhair.“Thatwillhavetowait.”Shecutthetapeonherhandsandfeet.“Better?”
“Th-thanks.Youg-gotherejustintime.”TearsstreameddownVicky’scheeksassheliftedatremblinghandandpointedtoKane.“I’llbeokaybuthedoesn’tlooksogood.”
HorrifiedbythebloodthathadpooledaroundKaneinthelastfewseconds,Jennascrambledovertohim.“You’renotokay,Dave.”Shereachedforherphone.“I’llcalltheparamedics.”
“Notyet.”Kane’svoicecameoutonawhisper.
Heartthumping,Jennaswallowedhard,wishingshehadmoreexperienceinfieldmedicine.“Letmetakealookatyou.”
“Don’ttouchtheknife.”Kanewincedandhisfaceturnedsheet-white.“ThevesttookmostofitbutI’mlight-headed.ShehadtwoknivesandIfigureshecaughtmeinthegapinthevest.Leftsideundermyarm.”Hetookalaboredbreath.“Beforeyoucalltheparamedics,you’llneedtostopthebleeding.FindsomethingtopressagainstthewoundanduseDuke’sleashtosecureittight.Thencalltheparamedics.”
“Okay.”Without,asecondthought,Jennastrippedoffherjacket,Kevlarvest,andT-shirt.BallingupherT-shirt,shepackedithardagainstthesmallpuncturewoundpouringblood.“Holdyourelbowintokeepthepressureforaminute.”
They’dleftDukeatthebarndoor.“Duke,comehereboy.”
Whenthedogboundedin,Jennagrabbedhisleash,loopeditaroundKaneandpulledittightagainstherT-shirt.Thestreamofbloodeased.Shesighedwithrelief.“Thatwillholdit.”
Dukeletoutalongwhine,droppedtohisstomach,crawledupbesideKane,andlickedhishand.Jennaswallowedhard.Thedoghadsensedsomethingwasterriblywrong.ThelightcaughtthesheenofsweatonKane’sbrowandherstomachdropped.She’dseenhimbadlyhurtbutneverlikethisbefore.Grabbingherphone,shecalledtheparamedicsanddiscoveredtheywereattendingamultiplevehiclepileuponthehighwaytoBlackwater.Panicgrippedher,dammit,Kaneneededhelpnow.ShecalledCarter.“WehaveVickybutKane’sdown.Weneedamedicnowandtheparamedicsaredelayed.CanyougoandgrabWolfe,he’satwork?Whereareyou?”
“Headingbacktotheoffice.Wefoundthesuspectsathome.Howbadishe?”
JennaflickedalookatKane.“Very.”
“Copythat.”Cartersoundedconcerned.“ThechopperisontheME’sroofandreadytogo.I’llgetWolfeandsendRiobyroad.We’llneedalightoutthere.Headlightsandblinkerswoulddo.CallWolfeandtellhimI’monmyway.”Hedisconnected.
JennamadethecalltoWolfeandhewanteddetails.“Hehasastabwoundtoupperleftofhischest.Theknifeisinsitu.Woundtoleftsideupperribs,bleedingheavily.Ihavepressureonit.”
“Onmyway.Don’tmovehimandkeephimawake.”Wolfedisconnected.
Worryconsumedher.She’dbeenwithKanewhenhe’dsufferedfarworseinjuriesthanthisbuthelookedsopale.Hislabored,rapidbreathingwasbecomingshallowerbytheminutebutshetriedtoactasifeverythingwasfine.“CarterisbringingWolfeinthechopperandZaccantaketheprisonersdownandbookthem.”ShelookedatKane’sglazedexpression.“You’regoingtobeokay.I’llgoandgetthetruck.Carterwillneedthelightstofindus.”
“Later.”Kane’sfingersbarelymovedashetriedtopatthefloorbesidehim.“Sitwithme.There’ssomethingIneedtosaytoyou.”
Anxious,Jennadroppedtoherkneesandtookhishand.Itwascoldanddamp.“I’mhere,whatisit?”
“I—”Kane’sheaddroppedtohischestandhiseyesrolledupinhishead.
Oh,Jesus.Feargrippedher.“Dave,Davecomeonnow.”Shepattedhisfaceandthenfeltforhispulse,itwasrapidandmissingbeats.“Dave,wakeup.”
Shecouldn’trousehimandhewasslippingdeeperintounconsciousness.Asshesearchedhispocketsforthekeystothetruck,shecouldhardlyhearhimbreathing.Notwantingtoleavehim,sheturnedtoVicky.“Lookafterhim.Keeptryingtowakehim.Iwon’tbelong.Weleftourtruckneartheroad.”
“I’llwatchoverhimbutyoudon’tneedtogoforyourtruck.”Vickylookedather.“Dale’spickupisjustoutsideandhe’llhavethekeysinhispocket.”
JennapushedthekeystotheBeastinsideherjeansandrantoCollins.“Whereareyourkeys?”
“Jacketpocket.”Collinslookedatherforlorn.“Ididn’tmeanforthedeputytogethurt.”
“Bestyoukeepyourmouthshut.”Jennasearchedhispocketsandfoundthekeys.Shesnatchedupherjacketandaflashlightandranoutside.Itdidn’ttakelongtostarttheengineandturnontheheadlightsandhazardflashers.Shedroppedherflashlightontheseatandpulledonherjacket.Thelightspilledoverafewbottlesofwaterandshecollectedthem,sighingwithrelief.Davewouldneedwaterifshecouldwakehim.Glancingatthesky,shepushedbackthetearsthreateningtospillandjumpedoutthepickup.Rushingbackinthestall,shehandedVickyabottleofwaterandthencheckedKane,buttherewasnochange.HerT-shirtwassoakedwithbloodandshehadnooptionbuttotightentheleashalittlemore.Whenfinished,sheturnedtoVicky.“HowdidDalegetyoutocomeherewithhim?”
“HeaskedmetohavesupperwithhimatAuntBetty’sCaféandthencalledandliedabouthavinganewfoal.”VickystareddaggersatCollins.“Hethinkshe’sallthatbuthesmellslikehehasn’tbathedinayear.”
“Yousmelllikeapig.”Marlenelaughed.
“Itoldyoutozipit.”ReluctantlyJennaturnedtoVicky.“KeeptalkingtoDeputyKane,hisnameisDave.Weneedhimawake.”
“Okay.”VickymovedcloserandstartedtotapKane’sface.“Dave.Canyouhearme?”
Jennastraightened.ThechopperwasonitswayandshecoulddonothingmoreforKanebutwantedtothrowthebookatthesekids.Theywouldn’tgetawaywiththeircrimes,notonherwatch.Shewenttoherprisonersandreadthemtheirrights.“Asyou’reoversixteenyoucanwaiveyourrightsandanswerourquestionswithouthavingyourparentspresent.You’llbetakenbacktothesheriff’sdepartmentandheldinthecells.We’llinformyourparentsbutyouwon’tbereleasedandwillgobeforeajudgeinthemorningandlikelybetakentoayouthcorrectionalfacility.”
“Noparents.”Collinslookedalarmed.“Idon’twantmymacomingdownandscreamingatmeandmypawon’tbeinthesameroomasher.I’llwaivemyrights.”
“Iwilltoo.”Marlenelaughed.“Youdon’tscareme.”
SlightlyunnervedbywitnessingthebravadoofanobviouspsychopathinMarlene,Jennanoddedandpulledoutherphone.Shehitthevideoandhelditupinonehandwithherflashlightintheother.“Okay,youunderstandyourrightsandwishtowaivethem,isthatcorrect?”
“Yeah.”Collinsblinkedatthelight.“Ididn’tdoanythingwrong.”
“You’vegotnoevidencewedidanything.”Marlenesneeredather.
“Youhavenoideahowmuchtroubleyou’rein,haveyou?”Exhausted,Jennaleanedagainstthewallbutkeptthecamerarolling.“WehaveyourDNAatbothmurders,andnowwehavebothofyouforkidnappingVicky.Infact,I’llcompilealistofchargessolongtogivetotheDA,likemydeputysaid,youwon’tseedaylightuntilyou’reanoldlady.”SheturnedtoCollins.Itwasabluffbutshe’dtryitwhilehewasoffguard.“Somethingelse,weknowyou’vebeentalkingtoDr.Turner.You’repatient124,right?”
“Hesaidhewouldn’ttellanyone.”Collins’eyesnarrowed.“HesaidifIhelpedhimmovehiswife’sbody,he’dgivemealibis.”
“YoutoldDr.Turner?”Marlenepulledonthezip-tiebindinghertothehitchingpost.“She’slying.”
“ThenhowwouldIknowhissecretnumber?”Jennawetherdrylips.Shehadhim.“Dr.TurnerwroteappointmentsinhisdiarytocoverbothofyoubutIfiguredhe’dfoldandletyoutaketheblameforhiswife’sdeath.”Sheshrugged.“He’llsayyouthreatenedhimorsomething.”
“Ionlyvisitedhimonceattheschool.”Collinsappearedshocked.“Ineverwenttohishome.Hecalledmetogooverandhelphimathiswife’sapartment.IworeglovesandabalaclavabutIdroppedthebodygoingdownthestairs.Shewasheavierthanshelooked,wehadtodragherintothealleyway.”
“Okay.”JennapausedthevideotocheckKaneagain.Thebleedinghadstoppedbuttherewasnochange.Hewasintroubleandshecoulddonothingtohelphim.Shewentbacktoherprisoners.
“WeknowyoukilledLaurie,Marlene.”Jennaliftedherchin.“Thatwasaningeniousplantodisableherpickupandthenmakeherdropherphone.”
“Yeah.”Marleneseemedoblivioustothephonecameratrainedonherandpreenedatthecompliment.“Onceeveryonewasinthegym,Dalemessedupherpreciouspickupandintheparkinglot,Ipushedherrealhardandstampedonherphone.”Shegrinned.“Youshouldhaveseenherface.”
“Youshouldn’thavetoldher.”Collinslookedhorrified.“NowI’llbeblamedforLaurie’smurderandyoukilledher,notme.”
Jennaglaredatthem.“ThenyoukilledBeckyPowell.Weknowyouwereinvolved,Dale.”Sheheldthephonehighandkeptfilming.Shewantedalltheevidenceshecouldget.“WhyDeputyRowley’shouse?”
“Wedidn’tknowitwashishouse.”Collinslookedincredulous.“Itwasempty,isall.WhenMarlenesawsomeoneleavethekeyovertheporch,shecheckeditoutandtookoneofthebackdoorkeys.”
Jennalookedfromonetotheother.“So,areyouclaimingyoudidn’tattackMrs.Rowleyaswell?”
“Ididn’ttouchanyone.”CollinsstaredatMarlene.“Whatdidyoudo?”
“LikeI’mgoingtoadmittohurtingadeputy’swife.”Marlenerolledhereyes.
Jennaswallowedhard.HermindwasonKaneandnotthispairofpsychopaths.Shewantedtobeholdinghishandandmakingsurehewasokaybutshehadtokeepthemtalking.Sheneededtheevidence.“WhyleaveBecky’sbodythere?YoudumpedLaurie’soutatthemines.”
“Wesawthedeputy’sSUVstoppingoutsideandranaway.”Collinsshrugged.“Wedidn’thavetimetomoveherbody.”Hisbrowfurrowed.“I’mnotgoingdownforLaurie’smurder.”
Jennaturnedoffthevideoandtookthelightoutofhiseyes.“Justtellthetruthandthecourtswillsortoutwhoistoblamebutdon’tallowDr.Turnertowalkfree—andhewillifyoudon’ttelluseverythingyouknowabouthim.”
“That’snotgoingtohappen—notnow.”CollinsstaredinthedirectionofKane.“Whydidn’tyourdeputystopMarlenefromstabbinghim?Hejustcaughtherinhisarms.Hecouldhavesidesteppedandshe’dhavehitthefloor.”Heshookhishead.“Lookatthesizeofhim,hecould’vetakenherheadoffwithoneblow.”
OverwhelmedwithworryaboutDave,Jennashookherhead.“DeputyKanedoesn’thitwomen.”
“Thenhe’safool.”Marlenelaughed.“Isuretaughthimalesson.He’lllearn,menalwaysdo.Womenrule.Isn’tthatright,Sheriff?”
AngersimmeredandJennaeyeballedher.“No,itisn’tright.Hecouldhavebrokenyournecklikeatwigbuthetreatedyouwithrespect.Yourattitudetowardmendisgustsme.”
Thewhoop,whoop,soundofthechopperbladesfilledthenightandJennaranoutsidewithherflashlightandwaveditbackandforth.Shejumpedintothepickupandreversedtolightupthewideareaofopenlandadjacenttothebarnandthengotout.Therewouldberoomenoughforthechoppertoland.Drygrassanddirthitthewindshieldasthechopperloweredtothegroundandthemomentittoucheddown,WolfejumpedoutwithEmilyathisside.Carterremainedatthecontrols,thebladeswhippingupcloudsofdirt.AgurneydroppedontothegrassandWolfepulledituptoitsfullheight,dumpedabagonit,andpushedittowardJennaatspeed.
Jennaledthewayinside,unabletotalkwiththenoiseofthechopper.Sheranintothestall.“He’sbeenoutforabouttenormoreminutes.Ican’twakehim.”
“He’sbleedingout.”WolfebentoverKaneandlookedupatJennaandEmily.“Grabhisthighs.”WolfeeasedbehindKaneandwitheffortliftedhimontothegurney.“Em,gettheplasma.”HeplacedatourniquetaroundKane’sarm.“Givemeavein,comeon,Dave.Don’tyoudaredieonme.”
Legsweak,JennaheldherbreathasWolfeinsertedtheneedleandheldtheplasmabaguphigh.Shestoodhelpless,herbodynumbashecheckedhimandthenturnedtoher.Shelookedathisworriedexpressionandapartofherdiedinside.“It’sbad,isn’tit?”
“YeahandIcan’triskdoinganythingmorehere.TimeisoftheessenceandIhaveasurgeonwaitingforhimatthehospital.RioandRowleyareontheirway.”Wolfesqueezedherarm.“I’lltakegoodcareofhim,Jenna,andIwon’tleavehisside.He’sbeenthroughworseandhe’singreatshapebutIwon’tlietoyou,hemightnotmakeittothehospital.”
Overcomebygrief,JennastaredatKane’ssheet-whiteface.ThelasttimeKanewasinjuredWolfeflewhimtoamilitaryhospital.“You’renottakinghimtoWalterReed,areyou?”
“No,there’snotenoughtime.”WolfemotionedtoEmily.“Bringthegirl.”Withoutanotherword,theyheadedbacktothechopper.
DesperatelywantingtobewithKane,Jennastaredafterthemindismay.Trembling,shewatchedthechopperliftoffthegroundanddisappearabovethetrees.Besideher,Dukeletoutahowltowakethedeadbutshehadnowordstocomforthim.ShelookeddownatKane’sblooddryingonherhands.Thestickyslicksappearedblackinthemoonlight.Unabletostopthetearsoverflowing,shesunktoherkneesandstaredattheheavens.Itwasasifsomeonehadrippedoutherheart.“Don’tyoudaretakethatgoodmanawayfromme.”
FIFTY-NINE
RowleyspottedtheBeastonthesideoftheroadandurgedRioon.“There.AheadIcanseelights.”
TheheadlightsofRio’sSUVpickedupJennaleaningagainstthebarn,herheadturnedawayfromtheglare.Heleaptfromthevehicleandrantowardhersurprisedwhenhisusuallycoolandcalmsherifffellintohisarmssobbingonhisshoulder.“Hey,Jenna.It’sokay,backuphasarrived.”
“Dave’srealbad.Hemightnotmakeit.”Jennalookedupathim,hercheeksshowingwetinthemoonlight.“Stabbedtwice.Lord,theknifewasstillinhischest.”Shesuckedinabreath.“Haveyouheardanything?”
“He’scriticalandwentstraightintosurgery.Wolfeisinthereobserving,hewouldn’tleavehim.”Rioroundedthehoodandstoodhandsonhips.“Cartercalledjustbefore,he’satthehospitalandwillkeepusupdatedbutifit’sgoodnews,it’sgoingtobehours.”
“Okay.”Jennastraightened,gaveherheadashakeandseemedtopullherselftogether.“Theseareyouthoffendersandmustbetreatedassuch.They’rebothoversixteenandwilllikelybechargedasadultsbutfornowwesticktoprotocol.Wecan’tholdthemformorethantwenty-fourhourssowe’llbewakingupayouthcourtjudgeandtheDA.Ihaveenoughevidencetochargethembothandwehaveawitness.VickyPerezisalive,cutandburnedbutshe’llbeokayphysically.I’venotifiedherfather.ThepoormanwasstillwaitingwithDeputyWaltersatAuntBetty’s.He’sheadingtothehospitalnow.”
Rowleysmiledather.“Iknewyou’dcrackthecase.”Hefollowedherinsidethebarnandhisflashlighthittherowofpompomsontheshelf.“Didyounoticethepompoms?”
“No.”Jennastaredatthem.“Bagthembeforeweleave.Theprisonersarethroughthere.”Sheindicatedtowardaglowinglight.
Rowleywincedatthepoolofbloodinthestall.“Isthereanyotherevidenceyouneedfromhere?”
“Notnow.We’lltapethefrontandleaveit.Wolfewillneedtodoaforensicssweep.TheredpickupCollinsusedtotransportthevictimisoutsidebutI’vebeeninitandcontaminatedanyevidence.”Jennapushedherhairfromherfacewithbloodstainedhands.“GettheprisonersloadedandgivemeandDukearidebacktotheBeast.”
ConcernedbyJenna’spalefaceandbigwideeyes,RowleyescortedMooreandCollinsouttotheSUVandsecuredtheminthebackseat.Afterbaggingthepompoms,hewenttotheredpickupandshutdowntheengineandthenwalkedbacktoJenna.“IfigureIshoulddrivetheBeast.Youdon’tlooksogood.”
“Sure.”Shegavehimasidewaysglance.“Justdon’ttellDaveIallowedyoutodrivehisbaby.”
Rowleylaughed.“Okay.”HeliftedDukeintothebackandpattedhim.“Gooddog.”
AfterheslidinbesideJennatheybouncedbacktotheBeastandchangedvehicles.HehadtoadmittohimselftheideaofdrivingKane’sprideandjoywasdauntingbuthefoundtheBeasthandledbetterthanexpectedandtheyweresoononthehighway.HeturnedtoJenna.“Ihavesomeinformationtotieupalooseendinthecase.”
“Goon.”Jennaleanedback.“Ineedcheeringup.”
“Wecouldn’tfigureouthowcomedifferentvehicleswereseenonthenightsthevictimswentmissing.”Helookedather.“WhenRioandCarterrealizedithadtobeDaleCollinsandMarleneMoore,theylookedalittledeeper.DaleCollins’fatherownsthecaryardintownandDalegoesthereeverymorningtocleanthecarswithacoupleofotherkids.Buthisfatherallowshimtotakeanycaroffthelottodrivefortheday.Heusedthevehiclestothrowusaredherringandwhenhetookthemback,thevehicleswentthroughacarwashandtheinteriorwassteamcleaned.Noevidence.”
“So,ifwegothroughtheinventory,we’lllikelyfindthevehiclesusedinthemurders.”Jennahadcometolife.“That’sbrilliant.”
Rowleynodded.“Yeahandthekidswereprettysmarttoo.TheyknewhowtoconcealevidencebutI’dliketoknowifCollinswasinvolvedinMrs.Turner’smurder.”
“Notthemurder,no.”Jennasighed.“Ihaveaconfessiononvideo.Collinsadmittedtobeingpatient124andassistingDr.Turnerwithhiswife’sbody.Thedoctorisgoingdownforhiswife’smurderandthisevidencewillsealhisfate.”
RowleyheadeddownMain.“WhataboutLaurie,Becky,andtheassaultonmywife?”
“No,heclaimsinnocence.”Jennashrugged.“KanebelievedCollinswasasubordinatetoadominantkiller,hewentalongtoappeaseagirlheloved.I’llaskJotointerviewhim,he’swaivedhisrights.She’llknowtherightquestionstoask.Idon’tbelievehe’sapsychopath.HeseemedgenuinelyremorsefulaboutKanegettinghurt.Marlenewastheopposite.”Sheglancedathim.“Shewon’tbreak,IfigureouronlywaytofindoutthetruthistohopeJocanpersuadeCollinstorolloveronMarlene.IftheDAoffersadeal,hemightcomplybuthe’snotgoingtowalk.Hekidnappedthreegirls,that’senoughonitsownforjailtime.”
Rowleypulledupoutsidethesheriff’sdepartment.“You’llneedastatementfromVickyPerez.DoyouwantmetogotothehospitalandseeifIcanspeaktoher?”
“Nottonight.”JennajumpeddownfromthetruckandcollectedDuke.“She’straumatized.Ifthedoctorsaysit’sokay,we’lltalktoherinthemorning.”Sheheldherhandsoutforthekeystothetruck.“Startthepaperworkontheprisoners,notifytheDAandthekids’parents.MaybejustcallCollins’father,hedoesn’twanthismominvolved.Theprisonerscanstayinthecellsovernight.We’lldealwiththeminthemorning.CallinacoupleoftheBlackwaterdeputiestostayhereinshifts.I’mgoingtotakeashowerandchange.Ican’tsitherewaitingfornews.”
“I’lldriveyoutothehospital.”Riojumpedoutofhiscruiser.“Wecanmanagehere.”
“Thanks,butI’lldrivetheBeast.”Jennanodded.“Ineedtobetherewhatevertheoutcome.”ShelookedatRowley.“SeeifyoucancontactAtohi,heneedstoknowaboutKane.”
“I’monit.”Rowleywatchedherwalkthroughthedoors,headheldhigh,Dukeonherheels,andthenhewalkedtoRio’scruisertoassistwiththeprisoners.
“She’sonetoughlady.”Riostaredafterher.
Rowleyshookhishead.“Ontheoutsidemaybebutontheinside,shehasaheartofgold.”
EPILOGUE
Sunday
KanewokeinaworldofpainandfromunderhislashesmadeoutWolfeleaningoverhim.Hetriedtospeakbutnothingcameoutofhismouth.Anotherfacehedidn’trecognizepeereddownathimandthenthepainsubsidedandhefloatedawayintooblivion.Itwasliketwilightthenexttimeheopenedhiseyes.Hehadtobehallucinatingandblinkedtwicebeforetryingtofocusonablueballoonfloatingattheendofhisbed.Hemovedonearm,andpainshotthroughhimlikeathousandhotblades.Hegaspedandscannedtheroomfrombeneathhiseyelashes.Thelightinsidetheroomwasdimbuthecouldmakeouttheusualparaphernaliaofahospitalroom.Somethingwasinhishandandhisfingerscurledaroundwarmflesh.HeturnedhisheadtofindJennarestinginarecliner,curledupinablanketandfastasleep.Hesqueezedherfingersandhereyespoppedopen.“Hey.”
“Youscaredthehelloutofme.”Jennareachedforthecallbutton.“Thedoctorwillwanttoknowyou’reawake.”
Heshookhishead.“Notyet.HowlonghaveIbeenout?”
“It’sfive-thirty,Sundaymorning.”Jennayawnedandstretchedlikeacat.“CarterbroughtyouhereinthechopperandIfigureWolfesavedyourlife.Hewaspumpingbloodintoyouallthewayhere.You’restillintown,theydidn’thavetimetotakeyoutoWalterReed.Thedocwillexplainwhathappenedbuttheyhadtoworkonyouforhoursandthentheykeptyousedated.Thegirlnickedanarterysoitwasabigoperationandthehuntingknifewasembeddedinyoursternum,soyou’regoingtobesoreforawhile.”Shesqueezedhishand.“Doyouknow,Wolferefusedtoleaveyourside?Heonlywenthomelastnight.He’sbeenlivinginthisroomandwe’vebeentakingshifts.”
“Thankyou.I’msurepleasedtoseeyou.”Kanesmiledather.“Wolfecaresbuthe’salsofollowingprotocol.Imighthavesaidsomethinginadrug-inducedstateandhecarriesoutorderstotheletter.”
“Hewasworriedsick.”Jennapushedahandthroughherhair.“Heknewyouwereinterriblepainbutyouweresoweak,hekeptarguingwiththedoctorthattoomuchmorphinewouldkillyou.”Shechewedonherbottomlip.“Doyourememberanythingatall?”
Kanetookinhertousledhairandsleepfilledeyes.“Yeah,MarleneMooredroppedoutofthehayloft,Imadethemistakeofcatchingher,andshestabbedme.Ididn’tfeelathing.”Hesuckedinapainfulbreath.“Ifiguredthevesthadcaughtthehuntingknife.They’redesignedtosolidifyaroundasharpbladesoIwasn’ttooworried.ThepuncturewoundIdidn’tnoticeuntilIsawtheblood.”Hesighed.“Iguessshegotmeunderthearm.Didyoufindtheknife?”
“Yeah,WebberandEmilywentoverthebarnforevidence.Therewasn’ttoomuchthereatall.”Shesmiled.“ButtheyfoundtwoperfectfingerprintsandtheywereamatchforLaurieTurner.Weknowtheymurderedherthereandthentransportedhertothemines.TheyuseddifferentvehiclesCollinsborrowedfromhisfather’scaryardandthat’swhywecouldn’tgetalead.”
Astonished,Kanenodded.“So,aretheyincustody?”
“Yeah,they’reinayouthdetentionfacility.”Jennarestedherelbowsontheedgeofhisbed.“CollinswaivedhisrightsandJointerviewedhim,sheexplainedhisoptionsandwhatwouldhappenunderthelaw.HedecidedtorolloveronMarleneandDr.Turner.HeadmittedtohittingBeckytwiceasMarlenewasstranglingherandfeltguiltybutinsistedMarlenekilledLaurie.ItwasallMarlene’sidea.HedeniedevenknowingSandywasinthehouseatthetimeofBecky’smurderandwebelievehim.Sandyonlyheardoneperson.WefigureMarleneattackedherbeforeCollinsarrivedwithBecky.”
Kaneswallowedbuthismouthwasdry.Asifreadinghismind,Jennaheldacupandstrawtohislips.Hedrankandthankedher.“WhatconclusiondidJocomeupwithonthekids?”
“Collinshasadominatingmother,heisuselesstoherandlikehisfather,inhereyes.”Jennarefilledthewaterandplacedthecupwithinreach.“Whenhisfatherleft,hehadnoonetocontrolheranditdidsomethingtohim.Josaidhecravedaffection,sowoulddowhateverMarlenewantedtogetherapproval.Likeyousaid,typicalsubordinatetoadominantkiller.Hedidn’tlikekillingbutitpleasedhisgirlfriendsohewentalongwithit.”
“Yeah,thatsumsitup.”Kaneranahandoverhisfaceandwincedatthestubble.“AndMarlene?”
“Abusedasakidbymenshetrusted.”Jenna’seyesnarrowed.“Shewasprobablybornapsychopathandjustneededatrigger.Shedidn’ttrustmen,somadeCollinsprovehelovedherbymakinghimherpartnerincrime.Shetooktrophies,wefoundthemurderedgirls’missingpompomsinthebarn.”
“Classiccase.”Kanebitbackhisnextwordsasapersonenteredtheroomcarryingtheusualhospitalbreakfastandleftwithoutaword.Hescannedtheplateandpusheditawayindisgust.
“Youokay?”Jennalookedconcerned.“Atleastdrinktheorangejuice.Youhaven’teatenindays.”
Kanesqueezedherhand.“I’llbefine.IthurtssomebutIhatehospitalfood.Icouldsuregoapileofpancakes,stripsofbaconandmaplesyrupfromAuntBetty’s.”
“Metoo.”Shepulledoutherphoneandplacedanorder.“They’llhaveithereinnotimebutIshouldcheckwiththedoctorfirst.”
Hegrinned.“There’snothingwrongwithmystomachandI’dlikethesetubesremovedbutfirst,tellmeaboutDr.Turner.”
“Oh,wehavehiscasesewnuptoo.”Shesmiled.“He’ssuchanarrogantass.Youshouldhaveseenhisfacewhenwetoldhimpatient124hadtolduseverything.EvenSamCrosscouldn’tgethimoutonbailthistime.Turnerisincountyawaitingtrial.”
Kaneyawned.“That’sgoodandVickyPerez?”
“She’sfine.Sheneededplasticsurgeryforthecutonherfacebutshewenthome.She’lltestifyincourtagainstBonnieandClyde.”Jennasmiledathim.“Justtotieupanylooseends,Mr.Lawisremainingincountytoawaithistrialandhiswifeandchildaresafeandwell.She’llremainundertheprotectionofHerBrokenWingsFoundation,untiltheyfindherworkandaplacetostay.Youcanresteasy;allthecasesareclosed.”
Kanesighedwithrelief.Nowhecouldrelax.“That’sgreat.HaveCarterandJoreturnedtoSnakeskinGully?”
“No,they’restillintown.Theydidn’twanttoleaveuntiltheyknewyouwereokay.”Jennasmiled.“So,expectvisitorssoon.”Sheleanedcloser.“Doyourecall,thenightyouwerestabbed,youweretryingtotellmesomethingbeforeyoupassedout.Canyourememberwhatitwas,it’sbeendrivingmenuts?”
Theimageofherterrifiedfacewasimprintedonhisbrain.Henodded.“Yeah,Iremember.Youlookedsoworried,IwantedtotellyouIwasokayandwe’dmakeitthrough,wealwaysdo.”
“Andyouwereright.You’retoodarnstubborntodie.”Shesmiled.
Kanerolledhiseyestotheceiling.“Darn,wemissedtheFallFestivaldanceagain.”
“ButIdidbringflowersformydate.”Jennagiggled.
Earlymorningsunlightstreamedthroughtheblindsandhetookinthevaseofflowerswiththebrightblueballoonattheendofhisbed.Therewasamessageontheballoonanditread:It’saboy!Hechuckled.“Uh-huh.”
“They’drunoutof,‘GetWellSoon’balloonsandit’sthethoughtthatcounts,right?”Jennalaughed,andhereyessparkledwithmischief.
Kanesqueezedherhand.“I’lltreasureitforever.”
IfyouwanttohearwhathappensnextforKaneandAlton,signupheretobethefirsttofindoutaboutD.K.Hood’snextgrippingthriller!
Signuphere!
HEARMOREFROMD.K.HOOD
Ifyou’dliketokeepuptodatewithmylatestreleases,justsignupatthelinkbelow.We’llnevershareyouremailaddressandyoucanunsubscribeatanytime.
Signuphere!
BOOKSBYD.K.HOODDetectivesKaneandAltonSeries
Don’tTellASoul
BringMeFlowers
FollowMeHome
TheCryingSeason
WhereAngelsFear
WhisperintheNight
BreaktheSilence
HerBrokenWings
HerShallowGrave
PromisesintheDark
BeMineForever
AVAILABLEINAUDIO
Don’tTellASoul(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
BringMeFlowers(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
FollowMeHome(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
TheCryingSeason(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
WhereAngelsFear(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
WhisperintheNight(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
BreaktheSilence(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
HerBrokenWings(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
HerShallowGrave(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
PromisesintheDark(AvailableintheUKandtheUS)
ALETTERFROMD.K.HOOD
DearReader,
ThankyousomuchforchoosingmynovelandcomingwithmeonanotherthrillingadventurewithKaneandAltoninBeMineForever
Ifyoulovedthisbookandwouldliketostayuptodatewithallofmynewreleases,signuphereformymailinglist.Youcanunsubscribeatanytimeandyourdetailswillneverbeshared.
Signuphere!
Writingthisstoryaboutteenagekillersopenedanewdimensioninmyresearchintothecriminalmind.Itwouldseemkillerscomeinallshapesandsizes.
Ifyouenjoyedmystory,Iwouldbeverygratefulifyoucouldleaveareviewandrecommendmybooktoyourfriendsandfamily.Ireallylovehearingfromreaderssofeelfreetoaskmequestionsatanytime.YoucangetintouchonmyFacebookpageorTwitter.
Thankyousomuchforyoursupport.
D.K.Hood
www.dkhood.com
www.dkhood-author.blogspot.com.au
DON’TTELLASOULDETECTIVESKANEANDALTONBOOK1
Getithere!
Thefloorwasstonecoldonherbareskin.Herheartpoundedinherchest.“NotasoulknowswhereIam,”shethoughtasshetookinthedarknessaroundher.Andthensheheardhisfootsteps…
Whenabodyisfoundstuffedintoabarrelatthelocaldump,coveredinlongredcuts,DetectiveJennaAltonandhernewdeputy,DavidKane,rushtothescene.
NothingeverhappensinthesmalltownofBlackRockFalls,soJennabelievesthevictimmustbeoneoftworecentmissingpersons,andshefearsforthelifeoftheother.
Bothwerestrangerstothetown,butthere’snothingelsetolinkthem.Jennaknowssomeonemusthaveseensomething,butnoone’stalking;howwelldoesshereallyknowthepeoplearoundher?
ThenadisturbingcluemakesJennasuspectaconnectionwithotherdisappearancesinthetown’shistory.Justwhenshebeginsaskingtherightquestions,sherealisesshe’sbeingfollowed.Isshenextonthekiller’slist?
Inaraceagainsttime,JennaandDavidmustunlockthedarksecretattheheartofthetown,beforeit’stoolate…
Acompletelyaddictivedetectivethrillerthatwillhaveyouguessingrighttotheend.IfyouloveRobertDugoni,KarinSlaughterandRachelAbbott,you’llloveDon’tTellASoul
Availablenow!
BRINGMEFLOWERSDETECTIVESKANEANDALTONBOOK2
Getithere!
Shedidn’tknowhewaswatching.Untilitwastoolate.
She’dwalkedthiswayhundredsoftimesbefore.Shekneweverytwistandturn.Shedidn’tknowthiswasthelasttimeshe’deverwalkthispath.
Hiddendeepintheforest,schoolgirlFelicityParkerisfoundcarefullylaidoutonarockwithnothingbutafreshlypickedbunchofflowersnexttoher.Thebodyliesjustoffapopularhikingroute,andDetectiveJennaAltonthinksthekillermightbeavisitortothetown,untilanothergirl’sbodyisfoundatthelocalswimmingpool,onceagainposedwithabunchofflowers.
Jennarecognizesthesignsofaserialkiller,andthinksitcouldbealocal.Asthetownisgrippedwithfear,Jennamustexamineeachpersonthegirlsknew,andtrustbetweenneighborsstartstocrumble.
Bothgirlswentoutontheirown,andwerefoundwheretheyshouldn’tbe.Weretheytakenbychance,ordidtheyknowtheirkiller?Howweretheyluredsofarfromsafety?AndcanJennaandherteamfindthekillerbeforeanotherlifeislost?
Anabsolutelynail-bitingthrillerthatwillkeepyouupallnight.IfyouenjoyRobertDugoni,KarinSlaughterandRachelAbbott,you’lllovethis!
Availablenow!
FOLLOWMEHOMEDETECTIVESKANEANDALTONBOOK3
Getithere!
“Don’tyouagreeDetective?Thatsomepeopledeservetodie?I’vekilledthefirst.I’vekilledthesecond.Nowwillyoucatchtheothers,ordoIhavetokillthemtoo?”
ThebodyofAmosPriceliesinapoolofbloodonthepolishedfloorofanotherwiseemptyhouse.Withnosignsofabreakin,andnocluesleftatthescene,DetectiveJennaAltonisataloss.
Butastheteambeginstounpickthelifeofthereclusivevictim,theydiscoveradisturbinglinkbetweenAmosandthedisappearanceofseveralyounggirlsinthecountygoingbackyears.
Dayslater,anotherbrutallymurderedbodyisfound,inaremotemotelontheoutskirtsoftown.ElyDorseywaskilledinafrenziedattackandJennafearsnotonlythatthemurdersareconnectedtothemissinggirls,butthatthekillerhasn’tfinishedyet.
AsJennatriestoworkoutwhowillbenext,thekillersuddenlystartssendingherdeputy,DavidKane,messages.Isshebeingtaunted?Ordoesthemurdererwanttobecaught?AndwillJennadiscoverwho’sbehindthesekillingsbeforemorepeopledie?
Anabsolutelynail-bitingthrillerwithplentyoftwists,FollowMeHomeisperfectforfansofRobertDugoni,KarinSlaughterandRachelAbbott.
Availablenow!
THECRYINGSEASONDETECTIVESKANEANDALTONBOOK4
Getithere!
Thelightfadesassherunsforherlife,theforestnowbecomingquieteraroundher.Theonlynoiseshehearsisthesoundoffootstepsfollowingher…
It’shikingseasoninBlackRockFallsandthesmalltowninMontanaisfloodedwithvisitors.Butwhenahikerfindsahumanskullonadesertedtrailinthewoodsthatsurroundthetown,DetectiveJennaAltoniscalledintoinvestigate.
Withnomissingpersonsreported,Jennahasnoleads.Thenherteammakesashockingdiscovery—thebodyofanotherhiker,ayoungman,tiedtoatreeandriddledwithbullets.Couldthetwomurdersbelinked?
Asmorebodiesarefound,JennaandherdeputyDavidKaneknowthattheymustventuredeepintotheforesttofindandfacethekiller.Butnothingcanpreparethemforwhatawaitsthemthere…
IfyouloveRobertDugoni,KarinSlaughterandRachelAbbottyou’lllovethisnail-bitingthrillerfromD.K.Hood.
Availablenow!
WHEREANGELSFEARDETECTIVESKANEANDALTONBOOK5
Getithere!
Assheopenedhereyesandtookinhersurroundingsafeelingofterrorranthroughherweakenedbody.Sheknewexactlywhereshewas.Andsheknewexactlywhatwasabouttohappentoher…
WhenEllaTatestumblesintoBlackRockFalls,herexhaustedandbloodiedbodyisaterrifyingsight,butnotasfrighteningasthestoryshehastotell.Ambushedontheirwayintotownwhentheystoppedtohelpamanbythesideofthehighway,EllaandherfriendSkyranwhenhepulledanaxonthem.Butonlyoneofthemgotaway.
AsDetectiveJennaAltoninvestigatesthecase,shelooksintothehistoryofmissingpersonsinthetown,anduncoversmorecases—allyoungpeople.Allstoppedonthesamestretchofhighwayintotown.Allvanishedwithoutatrace.
WhenadistinctivepinksweaterbelongingtoSkyturnsupinBlackRockFalls,Jennafollowsthetrailtoaderelictbuildingontheoutskirtsoftown.Butsheisn’tpreparedforwhatliesbehindthosedoors.Canshestopthekillerbeforemorelivesarelost?
IfyoulikeRobertDugoni,KarinSlaughterandRachelAbbottyou’lllovethisnail-bitingthrillerfromD.K.Hood.
Availablenow!
WHISPERINTHENIGHTDETECTIVESKANEANDALTONBOOK6
Getithere!
Sheopenshereyesandstrugglestomakeoutthedarkroomaroundher.Onethingsheknowsinstantly—herwristsareboundandshe’stiedtoachair,unabletomove.Asshescreamsforhelp,shehearsfootstepsoutside.He’scoming…
Fifteen-year-oldLindyRosenhasbeenhavingnightmaresforweeks,wakinginapanic,screamingthatthere’samaninherroomwatchinghersleep.Herparentsassumeditwasheroveractiveimagination,butwhenonemorningtheyfindLindymissingfromherbedroom,they’renotsosure.DetectiveJennaAltoniscalledintoinvestigate.
Withinhoursoftheschoolgirlgoingmissing,thekidnapperreachesouttoJennawithavideoofLindyboundandtiedtoachair,cryingtobesetfree.Andasimplemessage—you’vegot24hourstofindherorIkillher
Jenna’steamworkaroundtheclocktotrytofindLindybeforethedeadline,buttimerunsout,andJennareceivesadevastatingmessage.Thekillerhasmadegoodonhispromise.He’splayingadangerousgame.Andnooneknowswhathisnextmovewillbe.
Butjusttwodayslater,oneofLindy’sschoolfriendsistakeninthemiddleofthenightandthecountdownbeginsagain.
Completelyaddictivefromtheverystart,ifyoulikeLisaRegan,KarinSlaughterandRachelAbbottyou’llloveWhisperintheNight
Availablenow!
BREAKTHESILENCEDETECTIVESKANEANDALTONBOOK7
Getithere!
Herheadthrobbedasshestumblesupthestairs.Musicvibratingandthesoundofpartygoersfillherheadasshewalksintooneofthedark,emptyrooms.Asshesitsonthebed,shehearstheunmistakablesoundofthedoorlockingbehindher.Sheisnotalone.
ThebodyofcollegestudentChrissieLoweliescurledintoaball—longredcutsalongherarmssuggestinghowshehadmetherdeath.DetectiveJennaAltoniscalledintoinvestigate.
PurplishbruisingonChrissie’supperarmsmakeJennabelievethereismoretoChrissie’sdeaththanotherssuspected,andshesoonfindsherselffollowingthetrailofthestudent’slastfewmoments,leadinghertothesceneofapartythathadendedjusthoursbeforeChrissie’sbodywasfound.
WhenJennahearsreportsthatChrissiewasseengoingintothebedroomofacollegefootballstar,sheknowsthatfindingoutwhatwentonbehindthatcloseddoorcouldbethekeytofindingouthowChrissieendedupdead.Butthenanotherpartygoerdiesinanapparentaccidentatthecampusgymjusthourslater,andJennaisconvincedthedeathsareconnected.
Facingawallofsilencefromthestudentpopulation,Jennahastoactfasttofindthekiller,butsoonanotherstudentisfounddeadonthecampus.AsJennasendsinoneofherdeputiesundercover,shepraysthatshehasn’tjustsealedhisfate.Canshefindthekillerbeforeanymorelivesaretaken?
FansofLisaRegan,KarinSlaughterandRachelAbbottwilllovethistotallygrippingpage-turnerfrombestsellingcrimeauthorD.K.Hood.Youwon’tbeabletoputitdown!
Getithere!
HERBROKENWINGSDETECTIVESKANEANDALTONBOOK8
Getithere!
Thesoundthatwakesherfromsleepisunmistakable—someoneisintheirhouse.Shelistensasheavyfootstepsstartupthestairs,andasthebedroomdoorisflungopen,shedoesn’tevenhavetimetoscream…
Followingafranticemergencycallinthemiddleofthenight,DetectiveJennaAltonarrivesatasecludedfamilyhometofindthebodyofLucasRobinsonlyinginapoolofhisownbloodinhisbed.HiswifeCarol,shiveringinshock,hasjustwatchedanintrudershootherhusbandincoldblood.
AsJennainvestigatesthemurder,shesoondiscoversthatLucaswashavinganaffair.Andwhenhismistressisalsofoundstrangledtodeathinthecenterofthesmalltown,Jennaisconvincedthatthemurdererislivingamongstthem.
WhenthekillerescalateswithamassmurderataremoteranchontheoutskirtsofBlackRockFalls,Jennaknowsforsurethatshe’sdealingwithamurderermoretwistedthananyothershe’sfacedbefore.
AsthetownbeginstofillwithrevelersfortheannualHalloweenfestival,Jennahastoworkfasttostopanymorelivesbeingtaken.Butasthekilleralwaysseemstobeonestepaheadoftheinvestigation,hasshefinallymetamurdererwhocanoutsmarther?
Availablenow!
HERSHALLOWGRAVEDETECTIVESKANEANDALTONBOOK9
Getithere!
Sherunshertremblingfingersoverthedark,dampwallssurroundingher.Aboveherhead,shehearsheavyfootsteps.Sheknowsshehasnowheretohideandasthedoortothecellarisflungopen,shefinallyseeshisface.
It’swinterinBlackRockFallsand,astouristsflocktothesmalltowntotakeinthesnowymountainpeaks,onevisitormakesasickeningdiscovery.Thefrozenbodyofayoungwomanhangsfromatreeontheoutskirtsoftown.DetectiveJennaAltoniscalledintoinvestigate.
Jenna’sstomachturnsasshesurveystheice-coldremains,andshe’ssoonalertedtosimilarburialsitesnearby.Withnomissingpersonsreported,Jennaandherdeputy,DavidKane,fearBlackRockFallsisbeingusedasadumpinggroundforbodies.
Asthebodycountmountsup,Jennaismoredeterminedthanevertofindthepersonresponsible.Butasshetriestocatchthekillerout,heoutsmartsheronceagainandJennabeginstowonderifheknowshernextmove.Couldhebeclosertoherthanshethinks?
WhentheinvestigationtakesJennatoahomelessshelterrightintheheartofthecommunity,shefearsforthelifeofawomanwhohasn’tbeenseenforafewdays.It’sclearthekillerisbeginningtoescalate,soJennarampsuptheinvestigationandputsherselfinunthinkabledanger.Canshecatchthemurdereroffguard,ordoeshealreadyknowshe’sonherway?HasJennafinallymetakillershecan’tcatch?
IfyoulikeLisaRegan,MelindaLeighandKendraElliot,youwilllovethisthrillingnewbookfrombestsellingcrimeauthorD.K.Hood.
Availablenow!
PROMISESINTHEDARKDETECTIVESKANEANDALTONBOOK10
Getithere!
Theyounggirlpushesagainstthebackseatofthefamilysedan,fightingtofreeherselffromthecrudetiesrestrictingherhandsandfeet.Asthecarspeedstowardtheedgeoftown,shelooksbackatherfamilyhome,andwatchesinhorrorasitsuddenlyexplodesinamassofflames.Tremblingwithfear,sheturnstowardthedriverandhearsonlylaughter.Sheknowsthattheworstisyettocome…
DetectiveJennaAltonsurveysthecharredremainsofthelargesuburbanhome,stoppingtopauseatthethreelifelessbodiesoftheWoodsfamily.Jennaknowsshe’slookingforaserialkiller,butherpriorityisfindingthemissingteenagedaughterlastseenonthenightoftheinferno.
Dayslater,SophieWoods’sbodyisdiscoveredfloatinginashallowpoolofcrystal-clearwater–knownlocallyasDeadMan’sDrop–butJennastilldoesn’tknowwhowouldtargetthequietfamilyinsuchabrutalattack.
Delvingintothefamily’spast,shemakesashockingdiscovery–alinkbetweenthekillerandsomeoneconnectedtoherdeputyDavidKane.IfJennaisrightandthekillerisbackandseekingrevenge,thenshemustactfasttokeepherdeputysafe.
Whenanothergirlistaken,JennaandDavidfollowthetrailintoanetworkofundergroundcavesontheoutskirtsoftown.Withlittletimebeforethekillerclaimshisnextvictim,theyraceintothepitch-blacktunnels,unsurewhethertheyhavejustwalkedintothekiller’strap.Cantheyfindthegirlintimeandescapethecaveswithoutthekillerchasingthemdown?
Ifyoulikepulse-racingthrillersfromLisaRegan,MelindaLeighandKendraElliot,youwilllovethisgrippingnewbookfromUSATodaybestsellingauthorD.K.Hood.
Getithere!
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Thereweresomanybehindthescenespeopletothankincreatingthisstory.
Myhusband,Gary,whoismysoundingpostformanyofthecomplicatedscenesinthisstory.
TeamBookouture,youknowwhoyouarebuttomentionafew—Helen,myrock,whoguidesmealongtherightpath;Alex,whomakessuremyworkisperfect;theamazingteambehindtheaudiobooks;andmywonderfulnarratorPatriciaRodriguez.
NoelleHolten,whogoestheextramileformeonreleasedays,andKimandSarah,whoarealwaystheretopromotemybooks.
Thepromotionsandadvertisingteam,whoneverletmedown.
Thereviewersandwonderfulpeoplewhohostmeontheirblogsandlastbutbynomeansleastmyfantasticreaders,andthosewhosupportmeonsocialmedia—whatanamazinggroupofpeople.
Thankyoueveryone.
D.K.Hood
We–bothauthorandpublisher–hopeyouenjoyedthisbook.Webelievethatyoucanbecomeareaderatanytimeinyourlife,butwe’dloveyourhelptogivethenextgenerationaheadstart.
Didyouknowthat9%ofchildrendon’thaveabookoftheirownintheirhome,risingto13%indisadvantagedfamilies*?We’dliketotrytochangethatbyaskingyoutoconsidertheroleyoucouldplayinhelpingtobuildreadersofthefuture.
We’dloveyoutogetinvolvedbysharing,borrowing,reading,buyingortalkingaboutabookwithachildinyourlifeandspreadingtheloveofreading.Wewanttomakesurethenextgenerationcontinuestohaveaccesstobooks,wherevertheycomefrom.
ClickHEREforalistofbrilliantbookstosharewithachild–asvotedbyGoodreadsreaders.
Thankyou.
*AsreportedbytheNationalLiteracyTrust
PublishedbyBookouturein2021
AnimprintofStoryfireLtd.
CarmeliteHouse
50VictoriaEmbankment
LondonEC4Y0DZ
www.bookouture.com
Copyright?D.K.Hood,2021
D.K.Hoodhasassertedherrighttobeidentifiedastheauthorofthiswork.
Allrightsreserved.Nopartofthispublicationmaybereproduced,storedinanyretrievalsystem,ortransmitted,inanyformorbyanymeans,electronic,mechanical,photocopying,recordingorotherwise,withoutthepriorwrittenpermissionofthepublishers.
eBookISBN:978-1-83888-854-1
Thisbookisaworkoffiction.Names,characters,businesses,organizations,placesandeventsotherthanthoseclearlyinthepublicdomain,areeithertheproductoftheauthor’simaginationorareusedfictitiously.Anyresemblancetoactualpersons,livingordead,eventsorlocalesisentirelycoincidental.
TableofContents
TitlePage
BooksbyD.K.Hood
Contents
Dedication
Prologue
Chapter1
Chapter2
Chapter3
Chapter4
Chapter5
Chapter6
Chapter7
Chapter8
Chapter9
Chapter10
Chapter11
Chapter12
Chapter13
Chapter14
Chapter15
Chapter16
Chapter17
Chapter18
Chapter19
Chapter20
Chapter21
Chapter22
Chapter23
Chapter24
Chapter25
Chapter26
Chapter27
Chapter28
Chapter29
Chapter30
Chapter31
Chapter32
Chapter33
Chapter34
Chapter35
Chapter36
Chapter37
Chapter38
Chapter39
Chapter40
Chapter41
Chapter42
Chapter43
Chapter44
Chapter45
Chapter46
Chapter47
Chapter48
Chapter49
Chapter50
Chapter51
Chapter52
Chapter53
Chapter54
Chapter55
Chapter56
Chapter57
Chapter58
Chapter59
Epilogue
HearMorefromD.K.Hood
BooksbyD.K.Hood
ALetterfromD.K.Hood
Don’tTellaSoul
BringMeFlowers
FollowMeHome
TheCryingSeason
WhereAngelsFear
WhisperintheNight
BreaktheSilence
HerBrokenWings
HerShallowGrave
PromisesintheDark
Acknowledgments
*
Copyright
© Copyright Notice
The copyright of the article belongs to the author. Please do not reprint without permission.
THE END
No comments yet