Mr. Vampire Who Lives in My Neighbourhood

13

Florence's determination was evident as she marched towards the crime scene, brushing past the perplexed Wade. Her reputation in the law enforcement community was well-known, and the officers on site nodded in respect as she passed.

The crime scene was a secluded area within a wooded region, and upon arrival, Florence and Toni found it cordoned off by the police, with Wade already present. Toni's reaction to seeing Wade was unmistakable; despite having a steady partner, she couldn't hide her admiration for the handsome FBI agent. "Florence, it's Agent Wade!" she whispered excitedly, nudging her.

Florence responded with a nonchalant "I see him," her focus unwavering from the task at hand.

Wade approached them with a rare smile, greeting Florence warmly. "Dr. Lowell, we meet again." His gaze was intensely focused on her, a marked contrast to his usual stern demeanor.

Florence, however, was not interested in why Wade was there; her professional demeanor was all business as she asked about the victim. The responding officer seemed hesitant, and Florence noticed his pallor.

"What's wrong?" she inquired.

Wade interjected, cautioning her about the gruesome nature of the crime scene. "It's not something everyone can handle," he warned, suggesting that a male forensic pathologist should take over.

Florence frowned at his insinuation, perceiving it as an underestimation of her capabilities due to her gender. "No need. I can handle it," she asserted, brushing off his concerns.

Wade blocked her path, insisting she reconsider for her own well-being. But Florence was resolute, advising Toni and Wade to stay back if they were concerned about their own reactions to the scene.

Caught off guard by her suggestion, Wade was left momentarily speechless as Florence bypassed him and asked the officer to lead the way. She strode towards the site without hesitation, leaving Wade no choice but to follow, despite his embarrassment.

As Florence made her way through the police ranks, the respect she commanded was evident. Her presence alone demanded attention, and her resolve to face whatever lay ahead was clear. The crime scene awaited, and with it, the grim reality of her profession. But for Florence, this was another opportunity to seek justice, no matter how harrowing the details might be.

She crossed through layers of police tape to reach the crime scene, eyes fixed on the victim hung from a tree. The ghastly state was nauseating, but she wasn't afraid - she was furious that someone could be so cruel and brutal in taking a life.

Sympathy for the victim stirred in her gaze. Finding the perpetrator for justice was her duty. She steadied herself for the task at hand.

Wade was startled by her composure. Her sole focus stayed on the deceased, calmly following protocols as some officers gagged into the bushes.

He observed her doubtfully. In his view, women were born weak, needing protection. She was likely pushing herself to appear tough.

"Don't force yourself," he said.

"I'm the medical examiner. Bodies are my job - no struggle," she replied without glancing his way.

The arrogance! From this alone she knew they were incompatible, despite Toni's hopes. She preferred pursuing justice.

Examining the skin, she halted at faint marks on the victim's neck - two pale dots.

Wade grunted. "Evil as they come. I've chased him for years. When I catch him, he won't get away easy."

Florence quieted, eyeing the corpse uneasily. Could this really be his doing? She wouldn't forgive that, but strangely hoped it wasn't...his roguish elegance had affected her, reddening her cheeks at the thought.

Unsure in a way unlike herself, she decided more information would help form conclusions.

"Detective, have time to discuss your findings?"

Delighted by her invitation, Wade eagerly agreed to dinner, presuming her appetite gone after the gore.

"No, I'm quite hungry actually. I know a good burger place."

He almost stumbled in disbelief but couldn't admit revulsion stole his appetite.

"Unless you can't eat?" she pressed.

"I'm starving enough to eat a whole turkey," he bluffed.

"Burgers it is then!"

"...Burgers?" Queasiness stirred.

She described mouthwatering beef and lamb patties. He paled but couldn't show weakness.

As she walked ahead, blissfully detailing "finely minced" meats, he fought intense nausea.

Every glance back at the bloody scene tested his limits, but surrender wasn't an option. He had to endure...no matter how sickening it would be.