“We’ll be issuing a press release shortly, announcing that we’ll be moving the date in respect of the victims and their families.” Cusack’s voice faded in her ears. Something shone in his eyes. Excitement? Frustration? Louisa’s stomach pitched. Was he enthused about the prospect of more media attention, or could there be a more sinister reason behind the gleam in his eye? Or was he just frustrated and angry like the rest of the museum employees? She’d assumed Cusack hadn’t been actively involved with the interns, but perhaps her judgment had been hasty. Cusack wasn’t married. What if that cold, Teflon-like exterior was merely a cover for a sinister soul? Cusack had short, dark hair. He had access to the girls’ personnel and student records, and he was brilliant enough to pull off an intricate crime. He knew about the incident in Maine and the relationship between Conor and Louisa, something he’d deliberately kept from her.

“Lastly, we’re changing custodial services based on some nighttime thefts.” He raised a hand to halt the murmurs. “Nothing of great value to the museum is missing, but between the theft of the dagger replica and the small personal items that have disappeared in the last few weeks, the change makes sense. Your office door locks will be changed. I’ll let you know when new keys will be issued. Until then, I advise not leaving anything valuable in your offices. Any questions?”

Chairs scraped as people sensed the end and started to move.

“Then that’s all for now,” Cusack said in dismissal.

“One more thing.” Ignoring the director’s sharp glance, Louisa raised her voice. “Everyone needs to be careful. Please stick together. Don’t go anywhere alone, especially at night.”

“Yes,” Cusack interrupted. “Dr. Hancock makes excellent points. Although I’m sure the police will solve these crimes quickly, the museum has already temporarily increased security. No one will be admitted without an employee badge. Don’t be alarmed if you see additional guards patrolling the building. All employees, especially females, should ask for an escort to your car if leaving after dark and parked across the street. If you’re using public transportation, try to coordinate your commutes. Please don’t take your safety for granted. You need to be just as careful when you aren’t here. The police don’t suspect any of the girls were taken from museum grounds.”

He dismissed them with an authoritative nod.

Cusack approached, the momentary glimmer in his eye replaced with an appropriate level of solemnity. “Dr. Hancock, I hope you weren’t blindsided by the announcement.”

“Not at all. I’m relieved, in fact.” Louisa held her coffee in front of her body as a personal boundary marker. “The staff should be focused on helping the police and keeping each other safe.”