Brit kissed his cheek. “I’m so sorry.”
He nodded. “Thanks for being here with me.”
A woman in plainclothes entered the home and flashed a badge. After speaking with police, she made her way over.
“Nikki Cardoso, Arlington Homicide. I understand your cousin is the deceased.”
“He is,” Rebel replied.
“I’m sorry for your loss. I know this is a very difficult time, but I’d like to ask you a few questions.”
“Go ‘head,” Rebel replied.
As Rebel was answering her questions, several crime scene techs showed up.
“Here comes the mayhem,” Rebel mumbled under his breath.
“I know you’re a federal agent,” Detective Cardoso said, “but it’s best that?—”
Karen from ALPHA strode into the house and marched over.
“Karen Woodside, FBI.” She flashed a badge, then glared at Brit. “What the hell are you doing here?”
“Whoa,” Detective Cardoso said. “Let’s keep this civil. How do you two know each other?”
“We work together,” Karen blurted. “We’re in ALPHA?—”
“Alpha Sigma Sorority,” Brit blurted, cutting Karen off.
Silence.
All eyes on Brit.
“Do you mean Alpha Sigma Alpha?” The detective asked.
“Of course.” Brit slid her gaze to Karen. “Can I talk to you for a quick minute?”
Without waiting for Karen’s answer, Brit pulled her into the kitchen.
“You never,everdiscuss ALPHA in public. ALPHA doesn’t exist.”
“Don’t you dare talk to me like that. This ismycase. How were you even called here?” Karen crossed her arms. “You need to leave. Now.”
“I don’t work for you,” Brit pushed back. “I’m supposed to be mentored by you, but you’re the worst. This isn’t about you or your cases. Two young people have been murdered. One of the victims has a Y on her forehead. Get over yourself and work the damn case.”
Karen’s eyes bulged. “Retract your claws, missy. I’m your superior. You didn’t answer my question. What are you doing here?”
“You’re like a dog with a bone,” Brit bit out. “I was doing a family welfare check with my friend. His cousin and his cousin’s fiancée are the Alphabet killer’s fifth and sixth victims.”
On a growl, Brit turned and bumped into Rebel.
“Sorry,” Brit uttered. As she peered into his eyes, she calmed down. Her reaction to him was immediate, intense, and completely unexpected.
“Hey, I know you,” Karen blurted.
“No, you don’t,” Rebel said.
Karen hitched a brow. “Whatever. I’m going to need your statement.”
