Page 43 of The Whispering Girls

“What does that say about a killer?”

“There’re definitely familiar characteristics on the body and scene. Her face was covered, which usually indicates a psychological element to the killer—it can be good or bad.”

“And the area in which Theresa was left?” he said.

“The drama and specifics of the totem left behind indicate a connection between crime scene and victim.” Katie studied the board. There were things she needed to add for the killer’s signature as well as behavioral evidence.

“So the killer is telling a story,” said McGaven.

“Jack told me Officer Clark recognized the girl as a friend of his sister,” she said. “And that’s how they were able to contact family so quickly.”

“I see.”

“Everything is beginning to show how close-knit this area is and how unwittingly the local townspeople might be protecting the killer.”

“You really think so?”

“It’s a working theory, but we have to be open to anything. But that’s not what bothers me the most.”

McGaven stopped writing on the board and turned to his partner.

“Whatreallybothers me is that we have two victims who look so much alike. No one recognizes TJ—or Jane Doe—so how did she get here or where did she stay? There’s a host of other questions.”

“What did the autopsy report say about TJ?” he said.

“Nothing. It’s in progress and so is the forensic examination. But I do hope we get it soon.”

“I suppose they only picked up the body this morning.”

“I know. Maybe the chief will have some answers.”

TWENTY

Thursday 2210 hours

Chief Cooper was resting quietly when Katie and McGaven arrived. The room was dim with only two low-watt lamps illuminating it. There wasn’t a nurse nearby and the hospital seemed to be deserted, but Katie told herself that was to be expected in small medical facilities with only one or two patient rooms.

“He did say around 10p.m.?” said McGaven.

“Originally it was earlier and then he sent me a text saying to come closer to 10p.m., for some reason.”

“What do you think?” he said.

“I don’t know. It’s important to talk with him. I think we can trust him.”

“I trust you, and if you say he’s okay, then he’s okay,” said McGaven.

Katie looked around and still there wasn’t anyone in sight, no patients, no nurses, no visitors, no security guard, and no doctors. She moved slowly into the room. McGaven stayed at the doorway and sent a text to Officer Clark.

“Chief?” she said.

He looked peaceful and had been taken off oxygen.

“Chief,” she said again, glancing at the blood pressure monitor which read 120/85.

He opened his eyes and stared at Katie. At first, she thought he didn’t know who she was.

“Detective,” he said softly.