This is a Warning

Part 3

I can feel the note burning into my skin through the fabric of my jacket pocket, and I clench my teeth and tighten my grip on the steering wheel. I make a left turn, then another, my hands taking me to the place I know so well without my needing to think at all. I pull into the small guest parking lot at the police station. After straightening my tie and readjusting my glasses, I get out of the car, checking my surroundings quickly for anyone who may be following me—a familiar face or someone else suspicious.

The lot is nearly empty. Except for a red-pickup and a couple of squad cars, no one else is in this parking lot. A few people are walking along the sidewalk just across the street, but they are mostly obstructed from view by the rush hour traffic. Everyone else seems to be in a hurry to get home and relax after a long work day. The note seems to be vibrating, demanding my attention as I make my way up the front steps and through the main entrance doors.

My back stiffens as I enter the familiar lobby. I never wanted to come back here again. There receptionist recognizes me almost as soon as I enter. Her expression softens from the irritated look she had, and she says something inaudible to someone on the phone before quickly putting it down and turning her attention onto me.

"Mr. Black." I can hear the pity laced in her voice and I have to clench my teeth to avoid saying some choice words to her. I don't want her pity. But I know it's not her fault. "What can I do for you this evening?" She asks softly.

"I need to speak with the Head Detective," I say, avoiding eye contact. I look at the objects strewn about on her desk. A small plaque which read, 'Amanda Carter' sits in its usual spot right at the front of her desk. Next to the computer sits a half empty mug of creamy coffee. There are many papers scattered over the oak surface but a small framed photograph is set in a place of honour. The silver metal frame is dull from being touched and held regularly.

She nods and stands, heels clacking on the off-white tiles as she leads me out of the room. We pass desk upon desk, heading towards the private offices at the far end of the room. I try to act like I don't care when I see faces I used to know, but I can't not feel their eyes following me. There are a few new faces in the room, rookies who don't know what's going on. Carter pauses just outside of an office door and turns to me. She appears as though she is going to say something but then stops herself, instead simply smiling at me before brushing past me and heading back to her own desk.

I press my hand to the pocket where the note sits and clench my teeth, opening the door without knocking.