That must have gone over well. Danielle had picked up a pen and was tapping it against the yellow legal tablet in front of her

Not exactly. Apparently, a few threats were made by the son. He had to be removed by the bailiff. The judge opted not to hold him in contempt, and said she understood that the man was in pain.

All right. Give me the names again, Danielle said, pulling her laptop in front of herself.

Mary Pickett. Her son is Tyler.

Morgan paced the room while Danielle ran the names through some law enforcement databases. She made a strange noise in the back of her throat.

What?

Tyler Pickett was issued a ticket for loitering near one of the hospitals entrances around a week ago. He didnt cause any trouble so no one made a special note of it. She typed some more. Since his mothers death, hes quit his job teaching job at Buchanan High.

Had he quit his job so he could apply himself to seeking revenge full time? What now?

Danielle shut her laptop with a decisive snap. Now we go talk to Tyler Pickett.

***

Danielle parked down the street from Picketts house. Morgan got out of the car, ready to accompany her down the street, but she stopped him. I think you should wait here.

The wind whipped up, making the treetops on the suburban street dance over their heads. Morgan shook his head. No way. Im not letting you confront someone who may have already killed three women alone.

She rubbed at the spot on her forehead between her eyebrows with her thumb. You do know that Im an FBI agent, right? And youre not?

Morgan looked down at his feet. He was aware and also had seen her subdue two men, both bigger than her, while barely breaking a sweat. I know. Please dont make me wait here. I swear I wont do anything to jeopardize the case.

Or your own safety? She glared at him. Because that happens to be important to me as well.

Yeah. I know. You dont want to have to fill out the paperwork, he said, remembering her little joke.

She didnt laugh this time. Yeah. Its more than that, though. She turned to face him. Seriously, Morgan. I dont want you to get hurt.

He felt a flush start up his neck. I get it, was all he could say, though.

Danielle blew out a breath. Come on then.

Picketts house was dark. There was no car in the driveway. Danielle rang the bell anyway. No answer and no movement within. She pounded on the door, hard. Tyler Pickett! Open up! This is the FBI. We need to talk to you.

Still nothing.

You looking for Tyler? A voice came from next door over the fence next to the driveway.