The night was strangely quiet and still, the lack of a breeze smothering the air with a heavy feeling. No static noise even without the cotton. No disembodied voices making me do things I didn't want to.
As I strode toward the cemetery gates, my steps stuttered and a bitter taste soured my mouth. Yellow crime scene tape had been looped between the metal bars, and a heavy-duty lock hung from the latch.
Cold sweat rolled down my back as I set my duffel bag down, my limbs weighted with guilt. Why hadn't I warned Tim to stay away at night? I could've offered to drop off his thermos if I noticed he'd forgotten it. I could have prevented his murder.
I squeezed my eyes shut, willing myself not to lose it. Not right now.
With shaky hands, I pulled the stake free from the bun on top of my h
