Page 20 of Lost Echoes

“Is it hard to find leads?”

“More than you’d think. This has turned into one of my more challenging stories.”

“Why’s that?”

She sets the paper cup down and looks deep in thought for a moment. “It’s challenging to find people who will admit to having been there. Although, I’m beginning to think it might not be so much admitting as it is remembering.”

That hits a little close to home.

Florencia lifts one of her perfectly manicured eyebrows. “Did I strike a nerve?”

I play with my empty cup. “You could say that.”

“Any chance you knew Laurel Radley?”

My back stiffens at that woman’s name.

“Another nerve, I see.” Florencia flicks me a knowing glance. “You don’t have to tell me anything you aren’t comfortable with, but at the same time, be aware that even a seemingly minor detail can help me make connections.”

“Do you mean to other former patients?”

She nods, taking another sip.

“How many have you talked to?” I lean forward, suddenly curious about how much she’s learned from her investigative reporting.

“Several, though I get the feeling I’m only scratching the surface. Each story brings the fuller picture into a little more clarity.” Florencia holds my gaze, clearly wanting me to spill everything I know.

I lean back and tap the table. “What are your plans with the report? Is it going to be an exposé? A documentary? Or just a blog post?”

She chuckles. “It won’t be a blog post, I assure you. One of the large TV networks is interested in buying the rights if I can gather enough proof. I can’t say much more than that, but if all goes as I hope, it could very well end up being a docuseries.”

“Really?”

“If I can get enough people willing to speak out against the institution.” There’s a hitch in her voice.

“You’re having trouble finding people?”

“Let’s just say people’s minds have been messed with, and that gives the whole thing a special sort of challenge.”

I flash back to that guy with the weird eye saying ‘milkshake’ to Kenzi right before she started acting weird. Then I study Florencia. “You mean like hypnosis?”

“More along the lines of a medically induced head messing.”

“Drugs?” I lean forward, my breath hitching.

“That, yes. But also more. Does that sound familiar?”

“I wouldn’t know.”

She tilts her head. “No?”

I take a deep breath. “You’re going to want to get comfortable. You have time?”

A smile tugs at her mouth. “As much as you have. Mind if I take notes?”

“Have at it.”

Florencia digs into her bag and pulls out a tablet. “Start whenever you’re ready.”