Page 58 of Her Wild Coast Promise

Hunter holds the light steady while I take several photographs with my phone’s camera. I then slide out a fresh pair of gloves so I can open the lid of the dumpster. Hunter calls in the crime scene tech for assistance so they can try to lift any prints from the smear. I’m doubtful, but maybe the blood isn’t Vander’s, or it’s mixed.

A surge of energy fizzles just under my skin. It’s unspent adrenaline, a misguided reaction to a threat hasn’t materialized and likely won’t. Whoever left that print is long gone.

There’s a chance the blood smears are unrelated to our crime scene, but I don’t believe it. It could be a break in the case, or a dud.

I take two slow breaths, then peer into the dumpster.

It’s empty except for two large garbage bags. No sign of blood, but the crime scene techs will give me the final word on that.

“Any surprises?” Hunter asks, stepping around the dumpster.

“No.” I’m relieved—no bodies. But I’m also disappointed. Finding a murder weapon would have been a welcome surprise.

“I’m going to have a look,” Hunter says, nodding toward the woods.

“Good idea. I’ll wait for the crime scene tech.”

Hunter steps onto the grass, his eyes focused on the ground.

My cell buzzes, and I glance at the screen. It’s Cooper McCabe.

Just handed off your victim. Not looking good.

“Shit.”

Thanks for the heads up

Sorry you had to go through that.

Part of the gig

It still sucks

Who was he?

I don’t miss the use of the past tense, and it sours my mood even more.

Someone I tried to help

Sorry

Me too

The crime scene tech arrives with her kit just as Hunter returns. “Nothing.”

Leaving the crime scene tech to do her work, Hunter and I continue walking the perimeter. “Vander’s not going to make it,” I tell him.

Hunter gives a grunt of acknowledgement.

“He smiled at me,” I say. “And not the friendly kind.”

“That’s sick.”

“Was he an addict? I don’t remember that coming up at trial.”

“Maybe it wasn’t relevant. He was in for aggravated assault.”

“I should have fought harder to flip him. We could have kept him safe.”

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