Even the leftover cords of split firewood had been stacked in straight, even rows against the cedar boards.

“Lucas?” I called, feeling an odd emptiness open up in my chest.

“I’m right here by the porch, Cassie,” a familiar voice called back from around the corner.

I spun around and found Lucas standing by the foundation of the house in a clean navy coat.

Parked just behind him was a black car I didn’t recognize, shining in the pale autumn sun.

A knot of worry tightened in my stomach as I walked toward the strange scene.