When they were about twenty feet away from the lounge, a woman came walking out. She was dressed in a typical white doctors vest and navy-blue pants. Rachel noted that the nametag on her chest read VICK. Pauline Vick was a short woman that looked quite athletic even under the long, white doctors coat. Her black hair was pulled back in a tight ponytail and she looked as if someone had just called her every bad name they could think of.

I assume youre the agents? Pauline asked.

Yes, maam, we are, Rachel said.

I was paged and told I had two FBI agents here looking to speak with me, she said, confused. Can I ask what this is in reference to?

We need some information from you regarding a case were looking into, Rachel said. Is there somewhere we can talk?

Well, I dont really have an office these days, so I think here in the hall will have to do. But as Im sure the receptionist told you, I have an appointment with a patient in ten minutes so the hall might be for the best. Now…how can I help you?

Dr. Vick, have you heard about the three murders that have occurred in the city in the past few nights? Rachel asked.

Slight confusion touched her features as she slowly said, Id heard that there were two women that had been killed. I was not aware there had been a third. One of the two was a woman I had consulted with just about two months ago.

I assume that was before you got the job here at the hospital? Rachel asked.

Yes. I consulted with her at Greenfield. I take it you two are looking for the killer?

Thats right. And so far, all we can gather is that somehow, the killer seems to know a list of women getting treatments, as well as when the treatments are scheduled and where they live.

Something like muted realization came over Dr. Vicks face. Are you here to ask me about employees at the clinics? Do you really think someone that works at Regency or Greenfield would be a killer?

The tone of Vicks voice changed drastically. Shed gone from meek and seemingly helpful to irate and angry in the space of about three seconds.

Based on the facts as we know them, Jack said, Yes, we have to assume that for right now. Currently, its the only approach that seems fruitful.

With all due respect, thats absurd. Please tell me you have not been harassing those poor doctors and nurses.

Rachel almost respected the way Pauline had communicated her grievance but there was an edge to it that honestly infuriated Rachel deep down. It wasnt necessarily a feeling of entitlement, but closer to a doctor knowing that these FBI agents were on her turf and finding a sense of skewed pride in that.