Page 56 of Dark Shadows
“Right.” Jacob spread more papers across the bed. “They documented each incident, took photos. Tried comparing them to the original symbol on Emmaline's grave.”
Savanah flipped through the reports, powdered sugar dusting her fingers. “Did they canvas the area?”
“Yeah, those reports are in there too, although they’re severely lacking detail.” Jacob gestured to another stack.
She wiped sugar from the corner of her mouth then reached over and brushed some from Mason's lip with her thumb. His eyes darkened as she licked the sugar from her finger.
Focus, she told herself. She picked up the reports and flipped through them. “I shouldn’t be surprised that they weren’t thorough.”
“What makes you think that?” Mason asked, his voice slightly rough.
“It's missing Mr. Duggar's statement. The man literally lives across the street. I used to wave to him when I visited the cemetery at night.”
Mason straightened. “Sounds like we need to make a house call.”
“Lab also got back about the faucet smear. It wasn’t Beverly’s blood, or the husband’s, and it was a different type than Daniels. Unknown male. Looks as though our unsub did indeed try to wash up.”
“That’s great. We’re one step closer to catching this creep.”
Twenty minutes later, they pulled up to a small white house across from the cemetery. American flags decorated the porch, and wind chimes tinkled in the morning breeze.
“Nice place,” Jacob said, getting out of the back seat.
Mason touched Savanah's arm before she could follow. “About last night...”
“Later,” she said softly. “We've got work to do.”
Mr. Duggar answered on the second knock. He'd aged since Savanah had last seen him, his hair now completely white, but his eyes were as sharp as ever behind wire-rimmed glasses.
“Well, if it isn't little Savanah Miles.” He smiled warmly. “I was wondering when you'd show up.”
“Mr. Duggar. It’s good to see you again.” Savanah returned his smile.
“So, what brings you by?” he asked.
“We need to ask you about the cemetery vandalism.”
“I was wondering if anyone was going to come around asking to see my video collection.” He stepped back, gesturing them inside.
The house smelled of coffee and something baking. Family photos, military photos, and even photos from town events lined the walls. But it was the security setup in the corner that had Mason knocking Jacob on the arm with a huge smile on his face.
“That's quite a system,” he said.
“Good eyes, Agent.” Mr. Duggar raised an eyebrow.
“FBI Special Agents Mason Spencer and Jacob Klein.”
“Military taught me to be prepared.” Mr. Duggar settled into a worn armchair. “Plus, living across from a cemetery, you see all kinds of things at night.”
“Like vandalism?” Jacob asked, his tone hopeful.
“Among other things.” The old man's eyes twinkled. “Young love, ghost hunters, kids on dares. And sometimes...” He looked directly at Savanah. “Sometimes just a lonely girl trying to make peace with her gift.”
Savanah's breath caught. “You saw me?”
“More than that.” He stood, moving to his security setup. “I kept an eye out. Made sure you were safe. Your step-dad asked me to.”
“Richard?” Savanah whispered.
