She answered quickly, her heart stuttering as an officer introduced himself, explained that her husband’s cabin had burned down and asked if he could ask her a few questions. “Sure,” she said, settling onto the bed, her heart pounding so frantically she thought that she might pass out. “Your neighbor said that you were on vacation?” “That’s right.” “And that you’re staying in a hotel close to the pass?” “About fifteen miles from it.” “Mind if I stop by? It’ll be easier to conduct the interview face-to-face.” She did mind. A lot. “That’s fine. Or I could stop by the station on my way home in the morning.” She hoped she didn’t sound desperate for him to take her up on the offer. “It’s better if we speak tonight.
