Page 64 of Coordinates of Death

She harrumphed. “Seems kind of ironic when I admit that out loud. The darkness from that day drove me into a vocation where I encounter the deepest and blackest hearts out there. And SBK tops the list.”

“Preach would probably say to you that is exactly where God wants you to shine your light. In the darkness. I realize that sounds hypocritical coming from someone who wrestles with God’s existence.”

“Kord, we all have our faith struggles from time to time. I certainly do. Anyone who tells you differently probably isn’t facing the truth.”

Sally approached their table. “Here you go, folks. Bon appétit. Just yell if you need anything.” She strolled over to her other customers.

Aurora grabbed his hand. “I’ll say grace.” She bowed her head. “Lord, I know sometimes we question why You allow what You do, but You’re in control. Not me. Thanks for keeping us safe today. Bless this food to our body’s use, and help us stop SBK. In Your blessed name, Amen.”

“Amen.” Kordell’s gaze didn’t leave her face, even while she had prayed. He loved how her previous agitated state had morphed into a calmness as she talked to God like a friend.

That was the faith Kordell wanted. One that trusted—even when he didn’t understand. Even when the world had fallen apart. God, can You give me that faith? Help me see Your light.

Aurora sliced into her fish and took a bite, mumbling. “So . . . good.”

Kordell chuckled and bit into his burger. He finished his bite and took a sip of water. “Rory, did the police ever find Anna’s killers?”

She shook her head. “All leads fizzled, according to the police records.”

“So you’ve been looking into the cold case, haven’t you?” He took another bite, waiting for her answer.

“Good guess. I have another murder board in my office at home.” She picked up three fries and dunked them in her tartar sauce. “I’ve exhausted all avenues but one. I’m hoping to hear from the detective who investigated the case back then. But I’m doubtful it will lead anywhere.” She stuffed her fries into her mouth.

“You never know. What happened to your parents after that? You said they blamed you, but why would they not blame the babysitter?”

“Oh, they did, but just me more. My father withdrew, and my mother—well, she succumbed to a deep depression and never came out of it.”

“I’m so sorry. That must have been tough.” He dipped a fry in ketchup. “How long after Anna’s death did your mom pass? I remember only you and your father when I lived across the street.”

“Three years. Her depression got so bad that Dad had to put her in an institution to get proper help. He couldn’t handle the responsibility anymore, and he started fearing for my safety.”

“Oh my. In what way?”

Aurora sipped from her straw, her eyes clouding. “She began tearing apart books and clothes, smashing dishes, but it was when she hit me that Dad knew it was time to do something.”

Kordell stilled. “I’m so sorry you went through that. Why didn’t you tell me when we had our long talks in your tree house?” They had become close quickly, and it was their favorite spot. After all, he’d kissed her there.

However, everything had gone haywire after that day. Somehow the Roche brothers found out about or saw the kiss. Kordell was convinced they had spies everywhere.

“My father swore me to secrecy. He was concerned about what others would think.”

Kordell finished his burger and shoved his plate to the right. “How did she die?”

“I’m afraid the place she stayed in didn’t help.” She raised her hands in a stop gesture. “Nothing against them. We didn’t realize how far gone Mom was, and she took her own life.”

He reached across the table and squeezed her free hand. “That must have been hard for a thirteen-year-old.”

“Yes.” Aurora’s cell phone buzzed, and she tapped the screen. “It’s a text from Dirk.” She read, her jaw dropping.

“What is it?”

“He said the only thing they found on the laptop was a message for me. He sent a picture.” She set the phone in front of him.

I know what you did, Rory.

Kordell recoiled. “What does that mean?”

“No idea.” She averted her gaze to the door.