The place hadn’t changed much in twelve years, and despite the fact that he and Caroline had hardly spoken through the course of the long day, some of the tightness in his chest eased as he walked through the spacious house and onto the back deck, which overlooked the beach and the crashing surf. The sun was beginning to set over the water, streaking the sky with brilliant reds and pinks. Several couples walked along the water’s edge, letting the waves lap at their feet. To the right of the deck, standing near the dunes, he could just make out Colton’s shadowy figure. Deputy Black, Deputy Mitchell and three other officers had arrived earlier to get the layout of the house and evaluate the security. Even now, they stood guard both inside and on the surrounding property. Jason hoped that he and Caroline wouldn’t be here for more than a couple of days. He liked the house, but he didn’t relish the long drive back and forth to the hospital, with Caroline silent and cold beside him.
