CHAPTER EIGHT
Sara and Grissom met Iris as she went to the autopsy room to await the arrival of Heidi's parents. Jim joined them a few minutes later. They were here for emotional support of Iris. She thanked them for being there for her.
Heidi's parents arrived along with Nathan Randall. He was there in support of the parents at their request. He introduced himself to Iris who shook his hand and looked at it. His grip was firm and his manner forthright.
After they had signed all pertinent documents, Janice asked for an update on the investigation. Iris took the lead on answering her question.
"Janice, the investigation remains ongoing and while we don't have a suspect yet, we're still analyzing evidence and interviewing the school staff as well as checking for possible sex offenders living in the area." Iris replied.
"So you're still the primary investigator? Sounds like more should be accomplished by now?" Mark stated in exasperation.
"Mark, I'm sorry this isn't like TV where you see a crime solved in forty-five minutes and some commercials," Iris shot back but in a neutral tone. "This person is very smart and was very careful. We have to determine was this act premeditated or not. Is this person a serial molester? Is he going to hurt someone else's child and escalate into killing again? These are hard questions to tackle and we're doing our best. Are you requesting my removal from your daughter's case as the lead investigator?"
Mark shook his head no in a wordless response.
Grissom noted Iris handling herself with poise, grace and confidence. She was honest and tactful with the parents who were also her friends.
Janice went to stand face to face to Iris who did not flinch. "I still hold you accountable for Heidi. The only way I can forgive you is your finding who did this to our baby. You've never been a mother. How can you begin to relate to what or how we feel? I, no, we don't want you at the funeral. Your husband and coworkers are welcome to attend but don't you dare try to show up." Janice was fairly spitting at Iris in her rage and anger.
Grissom and Sara stood ready to help intervene as Brass stepped forward. "That's enough. I think its best you two go home now."
Janice's eyes shot daggers at Iris and then Jim. "Go home to what…an empty house?"
Mark went to his wife as her eyes brimmed over with tears, but her vituperative tirade ceased at Iris. He asked them to be excused as they exited the room. Nathan Randall remained behind