Page 35 of Coordinates of Death

“Don’t beat yourself up. We all have our own areas of expertise.” Kordell repositioned the cooler bag. “Let’s get back to the lodge.”

They gathered their packs, trekked to their snowmobiles, and reached the lodge midevening. Thankfully, most of the skiers had vacated to their chalets, leaving the main building quiet. And quiet was what they needed. Away from spying eyes.

However, Howie was still cleaning up the café after the supper rush and approached, grinning ear to ear. “You’re back. I was wondering if you had to stay in the mountains overnight. The weather has been dicey, to say the least. Did you make out okay? Did you see Bertie? How is he?”

Kordell smiled at the chatty twentysomething-year-old. “Yes. Yes. And good.”

“He’s quite a character,” Aurora added.

“Sure is.” His eyes drifted to the cooler. “What’s in there?”

Aurora clutched it to her chest, leaning closer. “Something that requires the utmost secrecy. Do you have a refrigerator somewhere secluded?”

“Sure, in the basement. You got body parts in there or something?” He snorted at his own joke.

If you only knew, Howie. Kordell’s gaze shifted to Aurora’s and raised a questioning eyebrow.

“It’s evidence and part of our investigation, so we can’t divulge any information. Please don’t touch or open it. Can we have your word on that?”

“Of course. You can trust me. I’m good at keeping secrets.” He raised his index finger. “Oh, I almost forgot. Trooper Nathaniel wanted me to tell you that they didn’t find any prints. Whatever that means.”

“Okay, thanks,” Aurora replied.

Howie extended his hand toward the door on the right. “This way.” He bounded down the steps.

Aurora and Kordell followed Howie into a damp corridor, turning right. He unlocked a door and shoved it open. “This is our secondary location for food supplies. I keep it locked after some teens raided it and the boss nearly fired me because of the incident. Said I was too trusting.”

“I’m sure you get lots of teens coming here during their winter breaks.” Aurora opened the refrigerator and set the cooler inside. “You okay if we lock it and take the keys? Just for now, of course.”

Howie bit his lip. “Uh, not sure my boss would approve.”

“I can’t have anyone tampering with the evidence. You understand, right?” She smiled and held out her hand.

Nice touch. Who could resist that smile?

Certainly not Kordell.

“Fine.” He dropped the key into her palm. “How long are you staying?”

“Just until early tomorrow morning.” Aurora’s cell phone rang, and she fished it from her parka pocket, swiping the screen. “This is my leader. I have to take this.” She moved to the other side of the room and spoke in hushed tones.

Kordell guided Howie closer to the door. “Would you be able to fix us something to eat? It’s been a long day, and we’re starved. Remember, all expenses are to be paid by my father.”

His eyes brightened. “Coming right up! I have leftover chili and fresh rolls.”

“Sounds delightful after being out in the cold most of the day.”

Howie practically skipped out of the room.

Aurora walked back to Kordell’s side. “Thank you. Right away, sir. Be sure to speak to the troopers here. I don’t want any issues going back across the border since we’re in their jurisdiction.” Aurora clicked off her call and approached. “I caught Hill up to speed, and before we do anything with the ice, I need to call Dr. Sharpe.”

“Will the coroner be available at this time of day?”

“The sergeant said he was going to let him know we’re calling. He’s also contacting the troopers just to keep them in the loop.” She keyed in a number, putting the call on Speaker. “Lock the door. I don’t want anyone walking in on us right now. Not even Howie.”

Kordell quickly obeyed and returned to her side just as the call connected.

“Dr. Sharpe here.”