Page 84 of Coordinates of Death

Aurora hooked her backpack’s strap on her shoulder. “I don’t think so. If he continues his game in the same manner, we’ll know when it does.”

Ten minutes later, Kordell followed Aurora into the morgue on the lower level of the Sweetwood Falls General Hospital. They pushed through the outer hall doors and headed down the corridor.

After a few steps, a chilly, foreboding spike of terror flowed through Kordell, and he halted, checking over his shoulder.

But they were alone.

“What is it?” Aurora asked.

“Just a gut feeling we’re being watched.” Kordell searched left, then right.

Nothing.

She pointed to a camera hanging above the door. “Technically we are.”

“Right. Sorry, bad habit from my years of living on the streets when you were always being watched by others stalking you for food, money, clothing, and anything they thought they could steal to sell.”

“I understand. There’s nothing wrong with being cautious.” She gestured to the left. “This way.” She knocked on a door, then entered. “Dr. Sharpe?”

“Back here.” His muffled voice came from an inner room.

Aurora leaned close. “We’re entering his old sanctuary, as he calls it. It’s where he performs his autopsies. He’s meticulous, so don’t touch anything. I did that once and almost lost my fingers.” She chuckled. “A bit of an exaggeration, but seriously, don’t touch anything.”

“Got it.” Kordell followed her into a pristine, state-of-the-art morgue like one would see on television shows. Spotless floors. Shiny machines. Countertops free of clutter. “Wow, this is amazing. Well, for a morgue, I mean.”

“Compliments of Dale Driscoll.” Dr. Sharpe lowered his glasses, then set aside his scalpel. “The equipment, I mean. The cleanliness is all me. Please don’t touch anything.”

Kordell stole a peek at Aurora.

Her hand covered her mouth, concealing the smile he guessed she hid. Her brightened eyes betrayed her laughter.

Kordell winked and returned his attention to the coroner. “Wouldn’t hear of it.”

“What do you have for us?” Aurora stuffed her hands in her pockets.

“A few things.” Dr. Sharpe spoke to Kordell. “Your father certainly expedited the tox results, so thanks. I need that man on speed dial.”

Kordell chuckled. “What did you find?”

“Midazolam. It’s used in medical procedures for sedation. Helps the patient relax and sleep. Also, it blocks memories of the procedure.”

“Could SBK be using it out of compassion?” Nothing about this killer pointed in that direction, but Kordell had to ask.

Aurora scrunched up her face. “Doubtful. He doesn’t seem to do anything out of compassion. Did you have something else, Dr. Sharpe?”

He pointed to a container. “Yes, the victim had the same stomach contents as Jennifer.”

“So SBK is now feeding them the same last supper. Aurora, you said he starved previous victims, right?”

“Yes, I’m wondering if he’s now taunting them by giving them food as a sign of hope.” She brought out her hands, crossing her arms. “But I’m guessing that’s not why you called me here, Dr. Sharpe. What else did you find?”

“Thought you’d never ask.” He pushed the white covering away, revealing a small portion of the victim’s lower back. He pointed. “I’m guessing these numbers are coordinates.”

“Those are the same ones we already know about.” Aurora circled her index finger around a tiny word tattooed beneath the numbers. “What does that say?”

Dr. Sharpe picked up a magnifying glass, hovering it over the letters. “Sidlo. No idea what it means.”

“Wait.” Kordell held his hand out. “May I?”