The third-floor corridor was empty. The aura of a Dementor drifted over from the far end of the hall. As he passed, the mist-like shadow shrank back, clinging to the ceiling as it retreated into the darkness of a corner.
He paused at the stairs leading to the fourth floor and listened for movement from the top level before continuing upward. He crossed each step with even strides and a steady rhythm, like a calibrated chain running at a constant speed toward its predetermined destination.
Morgan pushed open the iron door to the top floor exactly three minutes after the shift change.
Douglas sat in the surveillance room of the East Wing Tower, staring at the wall of monitors. The screen was divided into six views—the corridor, the stairs, the docks, the main hall, the East Wing's outer wall, and one angle aimed at the end of the top-floor corridor.
On-screen, Morgan raised a hand and knocked twice. Then he turned sideways, allowing the camera to capture his profile and the gap as the door opened. Bella appeared in the crack. She was surprised for only an instant before regaining her composure, as if she had seen an unexpected visitor.
After Morgan stepped over the threshold, the door closed. The camera could only capture the shut door panel and a faint strip of light beneath it. Douglas leaned back in his chair and tapped the armrest twice with his right index finger, his rhythm steady. He was in no hurry.
The conversation inside could be blocked by the door, but the length of time the door remained closed and the differences in their condition when entering and leaving were information in themselves. Besides, the surveillance and listening devices installed on Morgan beforehand would help him secure the evidence.
Once inside,