“Zero—one—four—four—two—zero—seven—seven—five—eight—nine—two.”
Maddie read them back for confirmation.
“Correct,” Barrett said. “What I found fascinating was that the numbers were over-stroked. In other words, the letters were traced and re-traced - this can sometimes reflect pent-up anger. Possibly, the person is neurotic. The numbers are formatted in little sharp figures, which means this person may have something to do with financial matters. We also detected some faint doodling. Again, not directly on the paper, but probably from a previous sheet from the same pad it was torn from. The doodle is of a sun with the rays extending in an asymmetrical fashion. The …show more content…
How can you be so sure?” asked Maddie finally.
“Nothing scientific - just a hunch. How many grown men do you know who draw hearts around words?” Barrett said with confidence.
“None,” she responded. “But how many grown women do you know who draw hearts around words?”
“Touché,” Barrett conceded. “Whether it be a man or woman, a maniac doesn’t do things in a normal way.”
“Did you have a chance to compare the writing against the contracts that came from Rapid River Realty?” Antonio asked, interrupting the tennis match ensuing.
“Yeah, they’re done. I didn’t find a match - not even close.”
“Thanks, Barrett. You’ve been a big help.”
“Wait, one more thing ... I took a look at the other sample you submitted, Antonio,” Barrett continued.
“What can you tell me about it?”
“Not much. I thought it was a joke at first, but once I got into it, it was fascinating … a psychologist’s dream …”
Maddie looked at Antonio wondering what they were talking about - what other sample?
“Fascinating how?” Antonio prompted.
“The writing is barbaric, like someone wrote it with their foot, but I was able to tell it was someone who probably should not be loose on the streets.”
Antonio laughed, and so did