Under the Spotlight

Chapter Four

Every year on October 19th, Flipps goes inside of the St. John's Federal Prison to meet with the world's most prolific serial killer: Cameron Jacobs. It's the one day a year that the psychopath will offer the FBI agent a victim's name and the location of their body.

Everyone knows that the date's significance corresponds with the date of his twin daughter's births— who he had murdered many years ago. It acts as salt in the wound for Flipps, who has kids of his own.

Since this is his first year with the Los Angeles division of the FBI, this is the first time Jeremiah has tagged along for the infamous visit. He sits at a table on the outskirts of the visiting room, impatiently waiting for Jacobs to arrive.

The sooner that they finish with this, the sooner that Jeremiah can help investigate the murder of a Los Angeles Police Officer, whose hand was removed from the crime scene. The rest of their team is currently working on the case, delivering updates to Flipps and Jeremiah while they interview Jacobs.

A chill sweeps through the area as daunting footsteps echo through the hallway. Goosebumps rise along Jeremiah's arms while the entourage of prison guards escorting Cameron Jacobs comes into view.

Jacobs is several inches taller than all of the men, reaching to a height well above six feet. His pale face is split with a smile, showing off his remarkably white teeth. His green eyes are on Flipps— who does not react to the man's presence.

The chains around Jacobs' wrists and ankles rattle while he comes to a stop before the gate. One of the guards at the front takes his time finding the key, ignorant to the fact that Flipps and Jeremiah have other things to do with their time.

"Agent Flippermauhn," Jacobs greets. He crosses the threshold into the room, leaving behind half of his entourage. "How are your girls?"

Leaning back in his chair, Flipps acts unfazed. He doesn't brush back the hair that falls into his face, which normally drives him insane. "They're great."

The convict stands on the other side of the table, using his height as a form of intimidation. Flipps is not a short guy by any means, but he is like a toy compared to Jacobs. "If I remember correctly, your oldest was trying out ballet."

"She thoroughly enjoys it." Flipps gestures to the seat in front him. "Please, sit down, Jacobs."

Rolling his eyes, Jacobs shakes his head. "So serious." Then, he settles his gaze upon Jeremiah. "Perhaps it'll do him some good to work with a younger partner."

Jeremiah can feel himself being dissected from Jacobs's gaze. The serial killer inclines his head, taking in every detail about Jeremiah. "How old are you, boy?"

"Sit down, Jacobs," Flipps orders impatiently.

"Not," Cameron Jacobs begins harshly, "until he answers my question." He directs a glare to the FBI agent seated in front of him, far too aware of how much control he has over this situation.

On the drive here, Flipps had briefed Jeremiah about the situation. Jacobs loves to play up his usefulness. He intentionally prolongs the process to maintain what little control he has. While they are here, Jacobs will hold his information hostage unless Flipps gives something up.

Under no circumstances is Jeremiah allowed to speak with Cameron Jacobs. That's supposed to be Flipps's job.

With a loud tsk, Jacobs turns and starts to walk away. "Well, I suppose this has been a great waste of your time. Have a nice day boys. The poor family waiting to learn about their missing child certainly won't."

The room is completely silent while Jacobs walks away. Flipps does not call after him and Jacobs does not stop. The guard waiting by the door fishes for his keys to open the gate.