When the call was over, Jack said, The husband of Gloria Larsen is Doug. Hes currently staying at his mothers house. Speaking to him for that little bit made me think hes of a mostly rational mind and he says hes good to speak to usmaybe even eager.

Good. I think we may need to check in with Kel Masters after this, though. We can speak to everyone listed in those files, but hes going to be the best bet.

Local PD insinuated that he didnt have much to offer in regards to the case, Jack pointed out.

Maybe after a few hours of being able to process it all, that will change.

Jack left it at that and they continued the short drive to visit with Doug Larsen in moderate silence. In between residences and with no active conversation taking place, Rachel started to again feel the pressure of her diagnosis. She wasnt sure what it was that she felt more pressed to tell Jack than her own family, but it was beginning to make her feel uncomfortable.

They reached the home of Doug Larsens mother less than fifteen minutes later. Somehow, it had already come to be noon and Rachel felt that the day was quickly getting away from her. Even she could sense some of her own urgency when she knocked on the front door. It was answered by an older woman with a worried look on her face. Her eyes seemed to say Oh, its you as she opened the door wider for them.

Youre the FBI folks? she asked.

Yes maam, Rachel said. Is Doug still here?

She confirmed that he was and led them into her home. It was a nice house, and well-cared for. Pictures of family were hanging everywhere and the smell of something baking was radiating from the kitchen. Banana bread, if Rachels nose was correct.

They found Doug Larsen sitting at his mothers kitchen table. His hands were wrapped around a mug of tea as he looked out over a flowerbed in the back yard. He looked to be in his early-to-mid forties and he, like his mother, looked worried and very tired.

Make yourselves at home, the mother said. Can I get you coffee or tea?

Rachel and Jack declined as they sat down at the table. Doug finally turned his weary eyes in their direction and offered the closest he could get to a smile.

Thanks for meeting with us, Jack said. Well do our very best to keep this as short as possible.

Im in no hurry, Doug said glumly. Its not like Im going anywhere.

Have you been back to your house ever since it all happened? Rachel asked.

No, Doug said. Im sure you know that I was the one that found her. There was just so much blood and…and I cant even think about going back there.