Page 24 of Talon

“Which leads me to believe you’re not dealing with an actual voodoo practitioner,” Bones says.

“What about the symbols?” Scar asks.“Any idea what they mean?”

“They’re called veves.The one on the doll you found is associated with Baron Samedi, the god of death.”

The room goes silent. The news hits us like a punch in the gut, and Jessica’s eyes widen in horror. I want to pull her into my lap and hold her, but we’re in the middle of Church. This isn’t the right time or place for that. What I need to focus on is the fact that someone wants to scare her, and we have no idea who it could be.

“Who would do this?” Jessica whispers.“Why?”

“That’s what we’re trying to figure out,” Scar says.“Anything else, Bones?”

“That’s about it. I don’t think the person actually practices voodoo, but they did get the symbols right. However, you can easily find those online, so it wouldn’t take a genius to fake a doll.”

“So, it’s a fake?” Nitro asks.

“I’d say so. Have you tested the blood yet?” Bones asks.

“Not yet. We need to get it to Daisy’s friends at the lab,” Scar says.

“When you get the results, call me. If it’s animal blood, it might be helpful information.”

“Thanks, brother. We’ll keep you updated.”

“Stay safe, brothers,” Bones replies before the screen goes dark.

“If the doll’s not real, then we’re back to square one.” Scar strokes his beard before turning to Jessica.“Were any of your ex-boyfriends into voodoo or any alternative religious practices?”

“None that I know of. I can’t think of anyone in my life who practices unusual religions.”

“Have any of your exes ever exhibited typical stalker behavior or shown controlling tendencies?” Matrix asks, his tone serious.

“Like what?”

“Did any of them complain about how much time you spent with friends or family?”

“No.”

“None of the guys ever tried to keep you away from other people?”

“I would have dumped them if they did. I’m not stupid,” she snaps.

“Not saying you are. I didn’t mean to imply that at all. It’s just that sometimes people don’t see the signs until it’s too late.” Matrix studies her before asking his next question.“Did any of them have substance abuse problems? Too much drinking or drugs?”

“I’d never date a drug user. They didn’t drink any more than normal.” She shrugs.

“What about self-absorbed guys? Narcissists. Men too wrapped up in themselves to care about your feelings?”

“Nope. Nothing like that.”

“Did any of them get jealous when other men talked to you?” Scar asks, taking over the questioning.

“I don’t remember anything like that.”

“Were any of them loners who didn’t have other friends?”

“No. I didn’t date that many people. I only had two real boyfriends.” She flushes slightly.

“What about guys you briefly dated?” I ask.