CHAPTER 2 — Exam Room Two
Madeline was brought into Exam Room Two.
The room was cold, bright, and mercilessly clean: stainless steel table, white tile walls, overhead exam lights, metal trays, clipboard, and a ceiling camera that recorded everything without judgment. Rain tapped faintly against the high window.
Nora helped transfer the bride onto the table.
The gown spread around Madeline like spilled cream. The flower wreath made her look horribly young.
Reeves checked the paperwork again.
“Full autopsy tomorrow morning,” he said. “Chief wants tox priority.”
Nora looked at Madeline’s face.
“She doesn’t look like a poisoning case.”
Reeves glanced up. “Meaning?”
Nora regretted saying it immediately.
The bride’s lips were pale but not blue. Her skin had not taken on the waxy dullness Nora knew too well. Beneath the expensive bridal makeup, there was still the faintest suggestion of warmth in her cheeks.
“She looks…” Nora stopped.
“Dead?” Reeves said.
Nora swallowed. “Different.”
“Different is not a medical observation.”
“I know.”
“You’re here to assist, not diagnose.”
“Yes, Doctor.”
He removed his gloves and dropped them into the bin.
“Log her personal effects. Do not remove the dress yet. The family requested she remain intact until the chief arrives.”
“Cause of death hasn’t been confirmed?”
“That is why she’s here.”
“But the hospital pronounced—”
“Nora.” His voice sharpened. “This job will destroy you if you start imagining every tragic body on your table might be a mistake.”
She lowered her eyes.
Reeves softened his tone just enough to make the reprimand sound professional.
“Finish intake. Then go home. You’ve been here since six.”
He left.
May you like
The door swung shut behind him.
Nora stood alone with the bride.
