The ringing of the phone was like a herald of doom. Maddox Martine's hand was unsteady as he lifted the receiver, his heart already quickening with a dreadful premonition.

　　"Mr. Martine," the voice on the other end belonged to Doctor Benson, the one who had treated his late wife. "I thought it prudent to inform you..."

　　"Out with it, man," Maddox demanded, his words clipped with impatience and an underlying tremor of fear.

　　"Travis Turner was here ...