When Kerri showed up at the police station, Absalom was far more relieved than he gave himself credit for. Ever since his aborted attempt to talk with her at the diner about the university break-ins, he’d been thinking of her possible insights into the case. She’d seemed tense, as well, which only made Absalom’s insouciant interest dive into somewhat overwrought obsession.
When Mona appeared by Kerri’s side, holding a box with an ashen expression, Absalom went back into pure business mode. There would be time for coffee and speculation. Now he was needed. He and Sandra met the two women at the front desk and continued their interview in an empty interrogation room. Mona’s voice was reedy as she tried to explain the significance of the box. As soon as he realized it was connected to her of
