Snow flurries whipped around him beneath a darkened sky. Maybe he had been foolish for coming to Cranton without telling anyone, but after receiving the telegram from Daniel about Michaela’s accident, he’d had no choice. Philip tightened his long coat against the wind. He couldn’t believe how desolate the town looked. The snow had drifted into deep piles along the sides of the buildings, and few people braved the harsh elements. He didn’t blame them. The sun would be setting soon, taking with it any lingering traces of light. His best option would be to find the nearest hotel and get a good night’s sleep before traveling to Daniel’s farm in the morning. Philip picked up his bag and started for the center of town. The hotel proved easy to find, and soon he made his way through the front door, thankful for the warmth of the lobby. Rubbing his hands together, he took a seat at a table next to the fireplace and ordered a cup of hot coffee.
