Page 46 of Coordinates of Death

Did that signify remorse? Or something else?

Loud voices came from the entrance, and seconds later forensic investigator Dirk Fowler entered. “Don’t mess with the crime scene.”

The coroner peeked over the rim of his glasses. “Dirk, stay away from the body. It’s my jurisdiction.”

Something told Kordell that Dirk Fowler loved power, and somehow Aurora had gotten caught up in his snare.

The conversation brought Aurora back to the group. “Dirk, I realize this has been a trying day, but we have to stay focused.”

“Don’t tell me what to do, Rory.”

“Please don’t call me that.” She turned to the coroner. “Dr. Sharpe, any identification on the victim?”

“None that I could find, but I just discovered this.” He pushed her sleeve up, pointing to a bloody tattoo.

Aurora’s sharp inhale boomed in the small cave. “Is it the same logo?”

“Looks like it, but I’ll know more once she’s transported back to my morgue.”

Dirk shone his flashlight around. “I don’t see a box.”

“If SBK stays true to his MO, it’s probably under her body.”

Dirk harrumphed. “Aurora, how many times do I need to tell you? SBK is dead.”

Kordell noted his change of her name but didn’t miss his forceful tone. Did he not trust in her abilities? And what had caused his distrust? “I’m not sure that’s true.” He stepped between the two. “I’ve reviewed the files, and I agree with her.”

Dirk’s eyes flashed venom. “What do you know, watcher? How dare you just pop in and give your opinion on something you really know nothing about.”

Kordell didn’t back down. “I trust her instincts.”

“She’s correct, folks. I’m ready to move the body. If I’m right, the box will be under her.” Dr. Sharpe shifted the deceased’s legs. “Eureka.” He took multiple pictures.

Kordell inched closer to get a good look at the new box. The wood encasing the shadow box was mahogany, and beneath the glass a stitched hummingbird hovered midflight, feasting on a blue morning glory. Tucked below the flowers, the initials A.H. stood out in a dark thread, a subtle but haunting tribute to Aurora.

Beside him, she let out a soft cry.

Kordell grazed her arm. “You okay?”

Her earlier anguished face morphed back into determination. “Fine. He’s used my initials again. Hummingbirds were Mom’s favorite bird, and my dad loved to grow blue morning glories all over the yard of my childhood home.”

“I remember those stunning flowers. How does SBK know all this about you?” Kordell hated how easily this person could gain information. “You haven’t lived there in years.”

“No idea. It’s like he has tapped into a resource from my past.” Aurora gestured to Dirk. “Can you check for prints? We need to see what’s inside.”

“Dr. Sharpe, please bring the box away from the body.” Dirk withdrew his equipment from his backpack.

The coroner lifted the box from under her body and placed it on the rocky ground of the cave.

Kordell analyzed Dirk as he expertly examined the entire box for prints. What was this man’s story? And more importantly, how did it involve Aurora? He shifted his gaze to her. Once again, she bit her lower lip, a trait he remembered from her teen years whenever she was nervous. Determination steeled his jaw. Kordell would find out who was doing this to her and stop them. No one messed with his friend.

After Dirk finished, he motioned to Aurora. “As I suspected, no prints. Open the box, and I’ll check underneath whatever is inside.”

Aurora squatted and put on latex gloves before she opened the box. “Looks like there’s only a picture here.” She lifted it out and stood. “Box is yours, Dirk.”

“What’s the picture?” Kordell asked.

Aurora turned it over, her eyes widening. “No!”