Page 58 of The Fragile Ones

“Unfortunately the answer is yes, but that doesn’t mean they won’t brand an older child or woman. Detective, you have to realize that the people who do this feel strongly about it—it’s important. It’s how they identify themselves in their sub-culture. The act is taken very seriously and often seen as an honor.” She shifted in her seat before continuing, “You see, the numbers not only identify who that child is, or belongs to, but also give the brander power by adding another person to their sect, group or collection.”

Katie took a moment to comprehend what Simone was saying. “I’ve been trying to think what the numbers might represent. I came across a Bible passage that talked about death. Would that be something worth branding on a baby?”

“Absolutely. It may mean something different to them than it would a Sunday school teacher or a scholar, but it could represent their mission, or point of view.”

“Wow,” Katie said. “These are psychopaths?”

“I know many people want to put the title of ‘psychopath’ on any individual who does cruel and heinous things, things that you or I wouldn’t do, but they don’t see it that way. They are technically a partial psychopath.” She studied Katie for a moment. “I know you run into more than your fair share of psychopaths, Detective. But people from all walks of life can find solace in labeling in this way. Yes, they can be controlling, cruel, and overbearing, but they can also be extremely loving, caring and family-oriented. Now does that sound like any psychopath you know?”

“No, not at all.”

“That said, obsessing about ownership in this way can be extremely dangerous and is usually well hidden. The only advice I can give is to be very cautious when pursuing someone like this.”

“Thank you,” said Katie. “It’s not completely clear to me yet, but some things are beginning to fit into place.” She stood up. “I won’t keep you any longer, thank you again for your time.”

“My pleasure. If you have any more questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.”

Katie stood up and shook Dr. Halverson’s hand.

“And I hope you find your killer.”

Katie was still digesting what Dr. Halverson had told her when her cell phone rang. She saw that it was McGaven.

“Hey, what’s up?” she said.

“Two presents for you.”

Katie stopped walking and waited to hear what her partner had to say. “Hit me.”

“The Vegas PD found Darren Rodriguez at his mom’s house and are preparing him for transport for questioning in a double homicide.”

Yes…

“Things are getting interesting.”

“And, Denise, my lovely, my super-intelligent girlfriend, some day to be my wife…”

“Tell me,” she said rolling her eyes.

“Denise was able to get a photo of his truck en route to the area where the branch was in the middle of the road, right next to the carved tree.”

“How’d she get that?”

“Turns out that one of the locals is on the new neighborhood software – I-Neighbor, or something like that – drove up in the early morning and asked him if he needed help. The back of the truck was filled with all his stuff. They moved the branch out of the road, but when he drove away he saw Rodriguez moving it back. And… drumroll, please… Our townie had his dashcam running. Great photos—black and white, but good nonetheless.”

“That’s fantastic. When will he be arriving?”

“Not sure. Probably sometime tomorrow. Just wanted to brighten up your day as soon as possible.”

“You certainly did. See you in a few.” She hung up.

All the pieces of this strange puzzle were finally starting to fit.

Chapter Twenty-Three

Friday 1145 hours

As soon as Katie stepped into the forensic division and shut the world out, she felt at home. The quiet. The calm. Peace.