Kris and I arrived at the county morgue at 9:00 AM sharp. Gloria was waiting outside. She joined us and the three of us walked in together. We were immediately met by Leon, the Coroner’s right-hand man.
“Dr. Kreskie will be right with you ladies.”
I was puzzled, “We’re just here to claim JD’s body and his effects. Hasn’t he already signed the death certificate?”
A door creaked behind him. “There are extenuating circumstances,” he said quickly as he rolled his eyes for effect.
Two voices emanated from the now open door. Olivia Stiers stepped through, dissatisfaction over something clearly painted on her face. Luke Kreskie followed behind her speaking in his always patient tone, “...because you’re not the next of kin and they have set an appointment to claim the body of the deceased.”
“
