“Our system connects all four drugstores in Millfield,” Gary said.

“The last prescription her pediatrician entered was an antibiotic for an ear infection back in May.”

“What would leave a brown residue like that?” I asked.

“Concentrated children’s sleep syrup,” Gary said, dropping his voice as an elderly customer shuffled past us toward the greeting card aisle.

“The kind sold over the counter for serious restlessness, or else strong prescription sedatives.”

“What happens if a six-year-old takes that every day?” I asked.